At first glance, a 1986 $5 bill might seem like nothing more than a worn piece of paper from your childhood. But for savvy collectors and currency enthusiasts, this seemingly ordinary bill could be worth thousands—especially if it features a small but powerful detail: a star in the serial number.
These rare 1986 $5 star notes have quietly gained popularity in the numismatic world, with many now being sold for hundreds or even thousands of dollars at auctions and collector marketplaces. And the best part? Some of these valuable bills are still in circulation today, waiting to be found in wallets, cash registers, and forgotten drawers across the U.S.
If you think you might be holding one of these hidden treasures, or you simply want to start looking, this guide will show you exactly what to check for and how to determine if your old $5 bill is worth a small fortune.
Why 1986 $5 Star Notes Are Highly Sought After
The term “star note” refers to a specific type of replacement bill printed by the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP). When a mistake is made during the printing process, the faulty bill is discarded and replaced with a new one—identified by a star (*) at the end of the serial number.
While star notes are printed for all denominations and years, the 1986 $5 star notes are particularly rare due to:
- Lower overall print runs during that year
- Limited number of star notes issued as replacements
- Age and wear, making uncirculated versions extremely difficult to find
- Federal Reserve district-specific scarcity, where certain bank locations received fewer replacement notes
These factors combine to create a perfect storm of rarity, demand, and value.
What Exactly Is a Star Note?
A star note is a replacement for a misprinted or damaged bill. Rather than reprinting the same serial number (which is illegal), the BEP prints a new note with the same series year and a star in place of one of the final characters of the serial number.
Here’s how to spot a star note:
- The serial number ends in a star symbol (*) instead of a letter.
- The rest of the bill looks identical to standard notes of the same year.
- Star notes exist in small batches, often less than 0.1% of total bills printed for that series.
Not all star notes are valuable, but those from rare years like 1986—and especially in excellent condition—can be worth hundreds or thousands.
Key Features of Valuable 1986 $5 Star Bills
Not every 1986 $5 star note is worth a fortune, but several factors greatly influence the bill’s value. Understanding these features is crucial when evaluating your note.
Look for the following:
- Series Year: The bill must clearly show “Series 1986” printed to the right of Lincoln’s portrait.
- Star in Serial Number: Look at the end of the serial number for a small star symbol.
- Federal Reserve District Letter: Some districts (like “B” for New York or “H” for St. Louis) printed fewer star notes.
- Bill Condition: Uncirculated or Crisp Uncirculated (CU) notes command the highest value.
- Printing Errors: If a star note also has an error—like misalignment or double print—its value skyrockets.
- Serial Number Pattern: Fancy numbers (e.g., 00000001*, 12345678*, 88888888*) boost collector interest.
Use this quick reference table to assess your bill’s potential:
| Feature | Example | Value Estimate | Rarity Level | Collector Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Star Note | Serial: B12345678* | $300 – $4,000+ | High | Must be 1986 and in good condition |
| Fancy Serial Number | 00000001*, 77777777* | $500 – $5,000+ | Very High | Combine rarity with star note = jackpot |
| Mint Condition | Crisp, uncirculated texture | +200% value bump | Moderate | Keep stored in a sleeve |
| Printing Error | Misaligned ink, off-center | $1,000 – $7,000+ | Rare | Certified grading increases trust |
| Low Print Districts | Star notes from “B”, “E”, “H” | $400 – $2,500 | High | Research total notes by district |
How to Authenticate and Evaluate Your 1986 $5 Star Note
Just because a bill has a star doesn’t mean it’s instantly valuable. Collectors rely on professional authentication, databases, and condition grading to determine exact worth.
Follow these steps to evaluate your note:
- Locate the Series Year – Confirm it says “1986.”
- Check Serial Number – Look for the star at the end.
- Assess the Condition – Is the bill clean, crisp, and free of creases?
- Check Federal Reserve Bank Letter – Located on the left of the portrait (A-L).
- Search Online Databases – Use tools like MyCurrencyCollection or PaperMoneyGuide to compare.
- Consult a Dealer or Appraiser – Get a professional opinion, especially for high-value bills.
Where to Sell 1986 $5 Star Notes for Maximum Value
Once you’ve confirmed your note’s value, the next step is to find the right platform to sell it. Certain venues are better suited for high-end currency, while others are ideal for more casual transactions.
Top selling options include:
- Heritage Auctions – Trusted auction house for rare currency.
- eBay – Wide reach and flexible pricing, ideal for mid-value notes.
- Currency Dealers – Immediate appraisal and sale, often slightly lower offers.
- Collector Forums – Niche communities like CoinTalk or Reddit’s r/Papermoney.
- Coin and Currency Shows – In-person appraisals and negotiation opportunities.
Compare your choices:
| Platform | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heritage Auctions | Serious buyers, top-dollar offers | Listing fees, slower process | Notes over $1,000 |
| eBay | Large audience, fast sale | Seller fees, risk of scams | Notes between $200–$1,000 |
| Currency Dealers | Fast, in-person transactions | Might undervalue rare finds | Casual sellers or urgent sales |
| Collector Forums | Passionate buyer base | Smaller audience, slower sales | Unique serials, rare errors |
| Coin Shows | Immediate appraisal, cash offers | Limited to regional events | Rare notes and face-to-face deals |
Real Sales Examples: These Star Notes Sold for Big Money
Don’t just take it on faith—real 1986 $5 star notes have already fetched impressive prices:
- A 1986 $5 star note in pristine condition from the New York district (B) sold for $3,100 at auction.
- A bill with serial number 00000004 from the Chicago district (G) fetched $4,850 on eBay.*
- A 1986 star note with a misprinted seal and perfect centering earned $6,200 through a private dealer.
These sales prove that ordinary-looking currency can turn into major financial windfalls under the right circumstances.
Tips for Protecting and Preserving Your Rare $5 Bills
If you discover or purchase a rare star note, protecting its condition is key to preserving its value. Small creases or exposure to moisture can dramatically lower its worth.
Preservation tips:
- Use acid-free currency sleeves to avoid deterioration.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and humidity.
- Avoid folding, bending, or clipping the bill.
- Handle with clean, dry hands or cotton gloves.
- For very valuable bills, consider grading and encapsulation through PCGS or PMG.
The humble $5 bill from 1986 may be hiding a secret—and a star in its serial number could mean it’s worth thousands. These rare star notes remain in circulation, and new discoveries are being made every year by collectors and everyday Americans alike.
So next time you receive change, take a moment to inspect your bills. What might seem like a regular piece of currency could be a collector’s dream—and your ticket to an unexpected financial surprise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FQA)
Q1: What makes a 1986 $5 bill valuable?
Its value increases if it has a star in the serial number, a fancy or low serial number, a printing error, or is in uncirculated condition.
Q2: What is a star note?
A star note is a replacement bill printed when an error occurs during production. It is identified by a star symbol at the end of the serial number.
Q3: Are all 1986 star notes valuable?
Not all are worth a lot. Bills in pristine condition, with rare district letters or special serial numbers, are the ones that typically command higher prices.
Q4: Where is the star located on a star note?
It appears at the end of the serial number, usually on the upper left and lower right corners of the bill.
Q5: How can I find out what my 1986 star note is worth?
Use online databases like MyCurrencyCollection or get an appraisal from a certified currency dealer or numismatics expert.
Q6: Is it legal to sell star notes?
Yes, selling old or rare currency is completely legal in the U.S., as long as the bill hasn’t been altered for fraudulent purposes.
Q7: Where can I sell a rare $5 star note?
You can sell through auction houses, online marketplaces, currency dealers, or coin and currency shows.
Q8: How rare are 1986 $5 star notes?
They’re relatively rare due to low print runs and age-related wear, especially in mint condition or with errors. Some districts printed fewer replacement notes than others.
