These appear much more frequently than a printing error and because of that, are much more common.Įach type of Star Note is part of the BEP’s quality control process. Star Notes created during the cutting process, when sheets of currency notes are separated by individual denominations and/or notes, are called Regular notes. It will not have the same serial number as the larger, non-damaged sequence. The BEP will substitute Star Notes for every damaged piece of currency. These are Star Notes created for mistakes or damage on a bill that happens during the printing process. This is important because it helps determine the value of that note or sequence of notes. There are two types of Star Note, each designated at specific stages of the printing of currency. The number of Star Notes printed equals the number of defective notes in a series. That note has a “star” designation printed on it, which indicates it is a replacement.

To replace it, a substitute note is printed and put into circulation. When a sequence of currency or singular note is damaged, it must be replaced, because of the role it plays in the overall Federal Reserve monetary strategy. During the process at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP), printed currency or currency that is in the process of being printed is occasionally damaged. Each denomination has an assigned total for a print run. The money to be put into circulation must be printed in a tightly controlled environment. The Federal Reserve determines how much currency should be in circulation at any given time and it uses this figure to help control interest rates, which affect each of the following:

To understand why a Star Note has value beyond its currency value, you must first understand what it is and how it interacts with the overall currency strategy of the US Federal Reserve. Below, we’ll go through these factors in order to find out how each one affects the value of a Star Note. Those variables include date issued, when the designation was assigned, and how many of its kind were put into general circulation.Įach of these variables defines a Star Note, its role in the overall currency strategy of the United States, and its value. The average Star Note does not have a standard value because each note is unique and has variable qualities that factor into its overall worth. If you have one, you may have wondered how much your Star Note is worth. After all, most of us don’t scrutinize currency serial numbers. Chances are, unless you collect them, you have had a Star Note in your possession and did not notice it.

Check star note serial number lookup