When it comes to rare and collectible currency, few notes stir up excitement quite like the 1976 Bicentennial $2 bill. Already a historic piece due to its release during the United States’ 200th anniversary, this bill becomes exponentially more valuable when it carries one of the rarest serial numbers of all—00000001. These notes are not just collector’s items; they are currency legends, fetching thousands of dollars at major auctions and becoming prized assets for serious numismatists.
If you’ve ever come across an old $2 bill and thought it might be special, you’ll want to read on. This article explores why serial number 00000001 is so sought-after, how to identify if you have a rare version, and what these bills are worth in today’s booming collectors’ market.
Why the 1976 $2 Bill Is Already a Collector’s Favorite
The 1976 $2 bill marked the return of the denomination after a decade-long absence. Its reissue commemorated the United States Bicentennial, with a newly designed reverse showing John Trumbull’s painting of the Declaration of Independence—a powerful patriotic image.
Key Features of the 1976 $2 Bill:
- Front Portrait: Thomas Jefferson
- Reverse Design: Declaration of Independence scene
- Series Year: 1976
- Federal Reserve Issuance: All 12 regional banks
- Circulation Purpose: Celebrating the U.S. Bicentennial
Though initially met with lukewarm public interest, these notes became highly collectible over time—especially those with unique features like low serial numbers or star notes.
The Power of Serial Number 00000001
Among all collectible serial numbers, 00000001 is the most coveted. This represents the very first bill printed in a specific series and district, essentially the “birth” of that currency run. For the 1976 $2 bills, finding a bill with this number is like winning a small lottery in the world of currency collecting.
Why 00000001 Is So Valuable:
- Extremely Limited: Only one note per district and series can carry this serial number.
- Historic Significance: First off the press for a landmark American event.
- High Demand: Collectors and investors alike aggressively pursue these notes.
- Auction Record: Some 00000001 serial $2 bills have sold for over $20,000 depending on condition and district.
Even serial numbers like 00000002 to 00000100 are valuable, but 00000001 stands alone as the crown jewel.
Understanding Serial Numbers and What Makes Them Special
Each U.S. bill is printed with a unique serial number, consisting of eight digits bracketed by prefix and suffix letters. On the 1976 $2 bill, you’ll find the serial number in the upper right and lower left corners.
Types of Valuable Serial Numbers:
- Low Serial Numbers (00000001 to 00000100)
- Ladder Numbers (e.g., 12345678)
- Repeating Digits (e.g., 12121212)
- Palindromes (e.g., 12344321)
- Star Notes (e.g., ending in a ★)
- Solid Numbers (e.g., 88888888)
Still, nothing trumps a clean 00000001 serial number.
Serial Number Rarity Guide for 1976 $2 Bills
| Serial Number | Type | Estimated Value (USD) | Rarity Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| 00000001 | Low Serial (First) | $15,000 – $25,000+ | Ultra-Rare |
| 00000002 – 00000100 | Low Serial Range | $1,500 – $10,000 | Very Rare |
| 12345678 | Ladder | $5,000 – $20,000 | Extremely Rare |
| 88888888 | Solid | $3,000 – $12,000 | High Demand |
| 10000001 | Radar | $1,000 – $5,000 | Collectible |
| 12121212 | Repeater | $1,000 – $4,000 | Rare |
| 12344321 | Palindrome | $2,000 – $8,000 | Scarce |
How to Check If You Have a 00000001 Note
Finding a note with serial 00000001 is incredibly rare, but it’s not impossible—especially if you’ve inherited old bills, collected them over the years, or received them as a novelty gift.
Steps to Identify:
- Locate the Serial Number: Upper right and lower left of the bill.
- Verify the Digits: You’re looking for exactly “00000001”.
- Check for a Star: A star at the end indicates a replacement note—also valuable.
- Examine Condition: Bills in crisp, uncirculated (CU) condition fetch higher prices.
- Confirm the Series: It should say “Series 1976” near the portrait.
If all the above align, congratulations—you may have a financial treasure in your hands.
Selling a 00000001 Serial 1976 $2 Bill: Where and How
Once you’ve verified that your bill has a 00000001 serial number, selling it can become a high-stakes process. Many collectors, auction houses, and private buyers will compete for the opportunity to own such a rare item.
Where to Sell:
- Major Auction Houses: Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers
- Private Collectors: Especially those focused on U.S. currency or low serials
- Online Marketplaces: eBay and numismatic forums (proceed with caution)
- Professional Currency Dealers: Provide appraisals and buying offers
Selling Tips:
- Have It Graded: A professional grading by PCGS or PMG will increase trust and value.
- Document Provenance: If the bill’s origin is traceable, it adds legitimacy.
- Be Patient: Rare notes can take time to fetch top dollar—don’t rush.
Grading Impact on Value of 00000001 Bills
| Bill Condition | Grading Label | Estimated Value Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Crisp Uncirculated (CU) | PMG 65+ / PCGS 65+ | $18,000 – $25,000+ |
| Almost Uncirculated | PMG 60–64 / PCGS AU | $12,000 – $18,000 |
| Extremely Fine | PMG 50–59 | $7,500 – $12,000 |
| Fine to Very Fine | PMG 20–40 | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Circulated | Ungraded | $1,000 – $3,000 |
Star Notes and Error Notes: Additional Value Multipliers
While a 00000001 serial is rare on its own, the value can increase further if the bill is also a star note or has a printing error. These special features multiply the note’s rarity and make it even more desirable.
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Look For:
- Serial Number Ending with a Star (★)
- Offset or Misalignment Errors
- Inverted Seals
- Double Prints or Incomplete Prints
If your 00000001 bill is also a star note or error note, it could be worth even more than typical auction values.
Tips for Preserving Rare Bills
To maintain or increase the value of your 1976 $2 bill with a 00000001 serial number, preservation is key.
- Store in Currency Holders: Use acid-free, clear sleeves.
- Avoid Folding or Rolling: Any crease can drastically reduce value.
- Keep in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid direct light and humidity.
- Limit Handling: Wear gloves if you must touch the bill.
Protecting the condition is just as important as the rarity of the serial number itself.
Rarest Serial of All: 1976 Bicentennial $2 Bills with 00000001
The absolute rarest serial pattern in the 1976 Bicentennial $2 bills is the low serial “00000001”. Always the first note of a production run, these bills command top-dollar at auction—with pristine, high-grade specimens pulling in $35,000+. Here’s why everyone’s scrambling for one and how to identify them:
| FIELD | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| BILL TYPE | 1976 Federal Reserve Note – Bicentennial Issue (dual-date “1776–1976”) |
| SERIAL PATTERN | 00000001 (the inaugural note of the series) |
| RARITY LEVEL | Extremely rare — only 12 production runs per Fed district; one first note each run |
| RECENT AUCTION SALE | Example: “L00000001A” sold for $35,250 in 2016 |
| ESTIMATED VALUE RANGE | $35,000–$50,000+ (for MS-65 star notes and higher) |
| STAR NOTE PRESENCE | If also a star note (ending in ★), premium spikes further—over $50k likely |
| CONDITION CRITICAL | Crisp uncirculated (MS 65+) notes earn top prices; any fold/compression drops value sharply |
| COLLECTOR DEMAND | Highest – first-in-run serials are the ultimate catch |
| AUTHENTICATION & GRADING | Absolutely required — PCGS or PMG certified |
| WHERE TO SELL | Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers, GreatCollections |
| HUNT STRATEGY | Check serials on all 1976 $2 bills; look for “00000001”, especially star notes |
Finding a 1976 Bicentennial $2 bill with a 00000001 serial number is a once-in-a-lifetime event for most collectors. These notes are more than just currency—they’re a piece of American history with exceptional rarity and tremendous value. Whether you’re holding onto one or hunting for it, knowing what to look for is the first step toward uncovering a hidden treasure.
If you own one, consider getting it professionally appraised and graded. You might be sitting on a small fortune.
FAQ’s for 1976 Bicentennial $2 Bills
Q: How many 1976 $2 bills with 00000001 serials exist?
A: Only one per Federal Reserve Bank, so at most 12 for the entire series—making them ultra-rare.
Q: Is a 00000001 serial more valuable than a ladder serial like 12345678?
A: Yes, generally. A 00000001 serial represents the first printed note in a series, which collectors highly prize.
Q: What is the highest price paid for a 00000001 1976 $2 bill?
A: Some have auctioned for over $20,000 depending on condition and rarity features.
Q: Can I find a 00000001 bill in circulation?
A: It’s extremely unlikely. Most were quickly identified and preserved by collectors or insiders.
Q: Should I sell my 00000001 bill immediately?
A: Not necessarily. If graded and preserved well, its value could increase over time.
Q: Does a star note with serial 00000001 increase the value?
A: Absolutely. A star note with that serial would be exponentially rarer and more valuable.
Q: What if my bill is folded or has wear?
A: Condition affects value significantly. Even with wear, a 00000001 serial can still be worth thousands.
Q: Where can I get my bill graded?
A: Trusted grading companies include PCGS Currency and PMG (Paper Money Guaranty).
