You might have a 2013 $100 bill in your wallet that’s worth much more than its face value. Featuring Benjamin Franklin, these bills look ordinary but can be collector’s treasures due to unique features or printing mistakes. Some have sold for thousands, even up to $456,000 at auctions! With the right knowledge, you could find a valuable gem hiding in your cash. This guide explains how to spot rare 2013 $100 bills, what makes them special, and how to check if you’re holding a fortune.
What Makes the 2013 $100 Bill Special?
The 2013 $100 bill was part of a major redesign by the U.S. Treasury to prevent counterfeiting. It introduced cool features like a 3D blue security ribbon, color-shifting ink, and a large gold “100” on the back. While millions of these bills were printed, a few have rare traits that make them highly valuable to collectors. These include special serial numbers, printing errors, or being a “star note.” Let’s break down what to look for.
Why Are Some 2013 $100 Bills So Valuable?
Certain 2013 $100 bills stand out because of mistakes made during printing or unique serial numbers. For example, a famous error called the “2013 Star Note Error” involved bills with duplicate serial numbers, making them super rare. One such bill sold for $456,000 in 2024! Collectors love these quirks because they’re uncommon and tell a story about the printing process. Even bills with less dramatic features, like a low serial number or a star symbol, can fetch hundreds or thousands of dollars.
How to Spot a Valuable 2013 $100 Bill
Checking your $100 bill for value is easy if you know what to look for. Here’s a step-by-step guide to spot a rare one:
- Examine the Serial Number: Look at the green numbers on the front of the bill. Check for patterns like:
- Low Numbers: Numbers like 00000001 or below 100 are rare.
- Ladder Numbers: Digits in order, like 12345678.
- Repeating Numbers: Numbers like 88888888 or 55555555.
- Palindrome Numbers: Numbers that read the same backward and forward, like 12344321.
- Look for a Star Symbol: Star notes have a star (*) at the end of the serial number, showing they replaced damaged bills. These are rare, especially from the 2013 series.
- Check for Printing Errors: Look for mistakes like ink smears, misaligned text, or double-printed designs. The “double print” error is a big one for 2013 bills.
- Inspect the Condition: Bills in crisp, uncirculated condition are worth more. Avoid folding or damaging them.
- Verify the Federal Reserve Bank: Bills from the New York Federal Reserve (marked with a “B”) are linked to the 2013 Star Note Error.
Use a magnifying glass or UV light to spot tiny errors. If you think you have a rare bill, don’t spend it! Store it in a protective sleeve and get it checked by a professional grader like PCGS or PMG.
Valuable 2013 $100 Bill Features
Here’s a table summarizing key features that can make a 2013 $100 bill valuable:
| Feature | Description | Estimated Value | Why It’s Special |
|---|---|---|---|
| Star Note | Has a star (*) in the serial number | $200–$500+ (circulated), $1,000+ (uncirculated) | Replacement for damaged bills, low print runs |
| Duplicate Serial Number | Same serial number on two bills | $500–$456,000 | Rare 2013 printing error |
| Low Serial Number | Numbers like 00000001 or 00000002 | $1,000–$15,600+ | First bills in a series |
| Ladder Serial Number | Digits in order (e.g., 12345678) | $500–$4,560 | Visually striking pattern |
| Repeating Serial Number | Digits repeat (e.g., 88888888) | $500–$5,640 | Rare and appealing to collectors |
Are These Rare Bills Still in Circulation?
Yes, rare 2013 $100 bills could still be in your wallet, cash register, or piggy bank! Since they look like regular money, many go unnoticed. The U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing admitted to the 2013 duplicate serial number error, which makes these bills a piece of financial history. Collectors are eager to find them, and auction prices keep rising as demand grows.
Tips for Finding Rare 2013 $100 Bills
Try these simple methods to hunt for valuable bills:
- Check Your Cash: Look at every $100 bill you get from stores or ATMs.
- Bank Strap Searching: Withdraw a stack of $100 bills from your bank, check them for rare features, and redeposit the rest.
- Visit Coin Shops: Dealers often have uncirculated bills or can appraise yours.
- Check Online Auctions: Sites like eBay show what similar bills are selling for.
- Join Collector Forums: Connect with others on sites like MyCurrencyCollection.com to learn more.
Why Collectors Love These Bills
The 2013 $100 bill is exciting because it’s modern yet rare. Mistakes like duplicate serial numbers or star notes show that even high-tech printing can mess up. Collecting these bills, known as notaphily, is a growing hobby. Finding one feels like winning a small lottery and connects you to a community of currency enthusiasts.
Watch Out for Fakes
Some people try to fake rare bills by altering serial numbers or adding stars. Always get a suspected rare bill verified by a professional grader to ensure it’s real.
Conclusion
Your 2013 $100 bill might look ordinary, but it could be a hidden treasure worth hundreds or thousands of dollars. By checking for star notes, unique serial numbers, or printing errors, you could uncover a collector’s gem. Take a moment to inspect your cash, protect any promising bills, and consult a currency expert. The thrill of finding a rare 2013 $100 bill is like discovering a piece of history—and it might just make you a small fortune!
FAQs
What is a star note on a 2013 $100 bill?
A star note is a replacement bill for one damaged during printing. It has a star (*) at the end of the serial number and is rarer than regular bills.
How do I know if my 2013 $100 bill is valuable?
Check the serial number for patterns like low numbers, ladders, or repeats. Look for a star symbol or printing errors like ink smears. Get it appraised by a professional.
Can I still use a rare 2013 $100 bill?
Yes, it’s worth $100 for purchases, but selling it to a collector could bring much more, depending on its rarity and condition.
Where can I sell a rare 2013 $100 bill?
Take it to a currency dealer, auction house, or sell it on platforms like eBay after getting it graded by PCGS or PMG.
What’s the most valuable 2013 $100 bill ever sold?
A 2013 star note with a duplicate serial number sold for $456,000 in 2024 due to its rarity and perfect condition.