Collecting currency is an intriguing hobby that not only allows collectors to own a piece of history but can also be financially rewarding.
Among U.S. currency, the $100 bills from the 1920s are particularly valuable, especially when they feature rare serial numbers.
This guide will explore the top seven rare 1920s $100 bills, focusing on their unique serial numbers, their historical significance, and what makes them worth so much more than face value.
Understanding the Value of 1920s $100 Bills
The value of a $100 bill from the 1920s depends on several factors, including its condition, rarity, and most importantly, its serial number.
Serial numbers on currency are unique identifiers that can greatly increase the value of the bill if they feature specific patterns or have historical significance.
Key Factors That Affect Value:
- Condition: The physical state of the bill, graded on a 70-point scale, significantly impacts its value. Uncirculated bills are always worth more than circulated ones
- Rarity: The rarity of the bill, particularly in relation to its serial number, can cause its value to skyrocket.
- Serial Numbers: Special patterns in serial numbers such as repeating sequences, low numbers, or star notes make these bills highly sought after by collectors.
Historical Context of 1920s $100 Bills
The 1920s $100 bills were part of the Federal Reserve Notes and were initially redeemable in gold, adding another layer of historical value to these bills. This “gold clause” ensured that the currency was backed by physical gold, making them an attractive investment during that era.
These bills feature a portrait of Benjamin Franklin on the front and Independence Hall on the reverse. The gold backing and unique serial numbers have made certain 1920s $100 bills highly collectible.
The Top 7 Rare 1920s $100 Bills by Serial Number
1. 1928 $100 Federal Reserve Note with Binary Serial Number (e.g., 01010101)
Binary serial numbers, which feature only two digits in the entire sequence, are considered extremely rare and collectible. A 1928 $100 bill with a binary serial number can significantly increase in value, often fetching between $7,500 and $10,000 depending on condition.
2. 1928 Philadelphia Federal Reserve Note (Star Note)
A rare star note from the 1928 Philadelphia Federal Reserve Bank can be highly valuable, with an example selling for $28,200. Star notes were printed to replace damaged or misprinted bills, adding to their rarity.
3. 1928 $100 Gold Certificate
This type of bill had a gold-colored seal and serial numbers. These were redeemable in gold before 1934, making them both historically and financially significant. These notes can be worth several thousand dollars depending on condition.
4. 1928 $100 Federal Reserve Note (Ladder Serial Number)
Ladder serial numbers (e.g., 12345678) are rare and sought after. A 1928 $100 bill featuring this sequence in good condition could be valued around $9,000.
5. 1928 $100 Federal Reserve Note (Solid Serial Numbers)
A $100 bill with solid serial numbers like “88888888” is considered a “fancy” serial number. These types of bills from the 1920s are exceptionally rare and valuable, with prices ranging from $5,000 to $10,000.
6. 1928 Federal Reserve Note with Radar Serial Number (e.g., 12344321)
Radar serial numbers, which are palindromes, are highly collectible. A well-preserved 1928 $100 bill with such a serial number can fetch thousands of dollars.
7. 1928 $100 Bill (Star Note from Dallas Federal Reserve)
Star notes from certain Federal Reserve districts, such as Dallas, are particularly valuable. A 1928 star note from Dallas in excellent condition can be worth more than $2,000.
| Rank | Serial Number Type | Description | Estimated Value (in USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | A00000001A | The first bill printed with serial number “1”. Rare, low serial numbers, especially “1”, are highly valued. | $15,600 |
| 2 | Star Notes | Serial numbers that end with a star (*), issued as replacements for damaged or misprinted bills. Extremely rare. | $19,550 |
| 3 | Solid Serial Numbers (e.g., A88888888A) | Serial numbers that consist of repeated digits (e.g., 88888888). These are considered “fancy” and are highly prized by collectors. | $10,000+ |
| 4 | Ladder Serial Numbers (e.g., 12345678) | These feature numbers in ascending or descending order. Their rarity and aesthetic make them desirable. | $9,000+ |
| 5 | Radar Serial Numbers (e.g., 12344321) | These are palindromic serial numbers that read the same forwards and backwards. | $8,000+ |
| 6 | Binary Serial Numbers (e.g., 01010101) | Featuring only two numbers, binary serial numbers are among the most collectible. | $7,500+ |
| 7 | High Condition 1928 Series with Fancy Numbers | Bills from the 1928 series in excellent condition (uncirculated) with special serial numbers are extremely rare and can fetch significant amounts. | $5,000+ |
How to Determine the Value of a Rare $100 Bill
To assess the value of your $100 bill, you will need to consider the following:
- Condition: Uncirculated bills with crisp edges and no folds are the most valuable.
- Serial Number: Fancy serial numbers like those listed above can significantly increase the value.
- Seal Color: 1920s $100 bills come with different colored seals, such as green (Federal Reserve Notes), gold (Gold Certificates), and brown (National Bank Notes), which also affect their value.
Conclusion
If you happen to have a 1920s $100 bill, it’s worth taking a closer look at its serial number and condition. Some of these bills have sold for tens of thousands of dollars at auction, and with the right serial number, yours could be one of them.
Whether you are a seasoned collector or a newcomer to currency collecting, understanding the factors that make a bill valuable can help you uncover hidden treasures.
FAQs
1. What makes a $100 bill from the 1920s rare?
The rarity of a $100 bill from the 1920s is determined by its condition, serial number, and whether it has unique features like a star note or printing errors.
2. How do I know if my $100 bill is valuable?
Check the serial number for patterns like ladders, radars, or solid numbers. Also, evaluate the bill’s condition, and look for any printing errors or unusual seal colors.
3. What are star notes, and why are they valuable?
Star notes are issued to replace misprinted or damaged bills and are marked with a star (*) next to the serial number. They are rarer than regular notes and can be worth significantly more.
4. How much is a 1928 $100 bill worth?
The value of a 1928 $100 bill ranges from $125 for a common, circulated note to over $28,200 for rare examples with fancy serial numbers or star notes.
5. Where can I sell my rare $100 bill?
You can sell rare $100 bills at auction houses specializing in currency, or you can contact collectors through currency appraisal websites.
References
- Silverpicker. “7 $100 Bills Worth Money: Are You Sitting on a Fortune?” thesilverpicker.com.
- History Tools. “The Most Valuable $100 Bills: From Rare Antiques to Modern Errors.” historytools.org.
- Old Money Prices. “How Much Are Old $100 Bills Worth?” oldmoneyprices.com.
