Expert: Ronald Fern - 8/20/2011

Question
I have three US 2006 $1 star notes.  The serial numbers are consecutive but differ from the right side if each bill to the left.
Left #          Right #
B 06710368*      B 26710368*
B 06710369*      B 26710369*
B 06710370*      B 26710370*

Are these worth anything?
Thanks,
RS

Answer
Hi Rosie:

Thanks for the opportunity to answer your question.

From wikipedia: "A star note is a bank note that has an asterisk (*), or star, after the serial number.   The Bureau of Engraving and Printing inspects currency for printing errors prior to releasing notes into general circulation. When notes are discovered that have been printed incorrectly (such as having the serial numbers upside down, etc.) the misprinted "error notes" are replaced with star notes because no two bills within a certain series can be produced with the same serial number."

It's hard to say without knowing the condition of your notes and seeing a photo of the errors in question, but I'll answer as best as possible. If you want to ask a follow up question with the added information, and a photo of the errors, I'll revise the answer, if required.

It sounds like you may have fairly rare final print errors, where at least one entire sheet (meant to replace error or bad currency) had the numbering devices out of sequence when the serial numbers and shield were applied. From your description, your 2006 consecutive star note $1 FRN's would likely have an approximate retail value of between $500 to $750 each, depending on condition, to an interested collector.

The best avenue for sale is either to a specialized error dealer or an auction. Getting it graded could potentially increase the value by as much as 50% in my opinion.

Bills are printed in sheets of 32 notes and in three phases. The back is printed first and taken to a drying room. Next the front is printed and then allowed to dry. Last, the serial numbers and Treasury shield are printed in an overprint press. They then are cut and put into bundles of 100. Though errors are unusual, quality control at the Bureau of Engraving stops most errors from reaching the public. With billions of notes printed each year, inevitably errors are missed and find their way to the numismatic market and ultimately to collectors.

For more information, see: http://www.madehow.com/Volume-3/Paper-Currency.html

Here's link for you to view different types of error currency and their values.
Link: http://www.coinsite.com/html/uscurrencyerrors.asp

You may want to check US coins and currency listings on eBay from time to time to see if your note is listed what this type of item may bring.

If you live close to a local shop, they should offer an opinion as to the value and if it is authentic at no charge. Remember, should you choose to sell your notes, get at least two estimates from professional coin dealers (PNG). I've listed a link for you to find them in your area. Link: http://www.pngdealers.com/dealersearch.php

Dealers normally pay between 50% to 60% of retail for items they want. In an auction, you can set the price, and potentially get more.

Your bills should be looked at by an error expert. My recommendations on who to sell to:
http://www.fredweinberg.com/ (a personal long time friend)
http://www.executivecurrency.com/

Please remember to go to the experts site to rate this answer. Check the nomination box on the rating page below any comments you may have.

Thank You and Good Luck in your collecting.