Most people forget the $2 bill even exists–but if you’ve had one tucked away for safe keeping, you may be holding on to more than just two dollars! Some rare and uncirculated $2 bills are selling for hundreds or even thousands of dollars at U.S. Currency Auctions, turning what looks like dollar slice change into serious rent money.
According to U.S. Currency Auctions, an uncirculated $2 bill printed in 1890 can get you up to $4,500, while others from 1862 to 1917 have sold for more than $1,000.
Even certain modern bills are selling for shocking prices–a 2003 $2 bill sold online for $2,400, then resold just two weeks later for $4,000, according to Heritage Auctions.
Why Are Some $2 Bills Worth So Much?
For your $2 bill to be worth thousands, it all comes down to age, condition, and uniqueness.
Most $2 bills in circulation today are worth exactly $2, but those that are uncirculated–meaning they’ve never been used–or that feature rare serial numbers or printing quirks can garner serious interest from collectors.
Bills with red, brown, or blue seals from 1862 to 1917 are often valued between $500 and $1,000. Meanwhile, complete packs of 1995 $2 bills in their original wrapping can bring in $500 or more.
Even bills from 1928, while not ultra-rare, regularly sell for $35 to $90, depending on their condition. In contrast, most newer $2 bills sell for just a bit above face value–typically between $2.50 and $3.
You can check the exact value of your bill using the U.S. Currency Auctions Price Guide.
How Many $2 Bills Are Still Around Today?
The Federal Reserve reported that in 2024 about 1.7 billion $2 bills were in circulation, which is only a tiny slice of the 55.4 billion total U.S. notes.
That equals roughly $3.4 billion worth of $2 bills out of $2.3 trillion in printed currency. So while the $2 bill isn’t exactly rare, it’s definitely uncommon, which adds to its appeal.
The Strange History Behind the $2 Bill
The $2 bill has always been a curious one.
First issued in 1862, it originally featured Alexander Hamilton before being replaced by Thomas Jefferson in 1869. Over time, superstitions and even associations with illegal activities like voter bribery made its popularity decline.
In an attempt to revive interest, the U.S. Treasury reintroduced the bill in 1976 during America’s bicentennial celebration, but despite its return, it never became widely used.
Today’s version still features Jefferson’s portrait on the front and the signing of the Declaration of Independence on the back.
The latest $2 bills are part of the Series 2017A, and according to the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, there are no current plans to redesign the bill.
So, Should You Hold On to Your $2 Bills?
If you’ve got one tucked away, it might be worth a closer look–especially if it’s crisp, uncirculated, or carries a unique serial number. While most $2 bills are still worth their face value, collectors are willing to pay big bucks for rare editions in top condition.
Before you spend it, consider having it appraised by a certified currency expert–that “ordinary” bill could end up being worth thousands. And with how expensive it is to live in NYC, we’ll surely take all the money we can get!
You can find a complete list of the values of collectible $2 bills online.