$2 Bill Found at Local Library; Imagine finding a $2 bill in a stack of old books and learning it’s worth over half a million bucks! That’s exactly what happened to a Virginia woman who spotted a crisp 1976 $2 bill at a library book sale and later saw it sell for $623,000 at a 2025 auction. This wasn’t just any $2 bill—it was a rare Series 1976 star note with a low serial number and perfect condition. Auctioned by Stack’s Bowers in July 2025, this find sent collectors into a frenzy. Here’s why this bill is a treasure and how you might spot one in your own stash!
A Bicentennial Gem
The 1976 $2 bill was minted to celebrate America’s 200th birthday, featuring Thomas Jefferson on the front and a painting of the Declaration of Independence on the back. Most of these bills are worth face value or a few bucks, but this one was a star note—a replacement bill marked with a star in the serial number, used when a printing error occurs. With a serial number of “00000007*” and a PCGS Superb Gem New 68PPQ grade, this bill was nearly flawless, with crisp ink and no creases, making it a collector’s dream come true.
Why It’s Worth a Fortune
So, what makes a $2 bill worth $623,000? It’s all about rarity and condition. Star notes are already scarce, and low serial numbers like “00000007*” are even rarer—only a handful exist from the 1976 series. This bill’s near-perfect condition, with sharp corners and vibrant colors, pushed its value sky-high. The 1976 $2 bills are hot among collectors due to their Bicentennial tie-in, and some were postmarked April 13, 1976, for extra flair. Similar star notes have sold for $10,000-$88,000, but this one’s low serial and pristine state smashed records at auction.
A Library Sale Surprise
The story started at a small-town Virginia library book sale, where the woman found the $2 bill tucked inside an old novel, likely used as a bookmark decades ago. Thinking it was a neat keepsake, she held onto it until a friend suggested getting it checked. A local coin dealer recognized its star note status and low serial number, and Stack’s Bowers confirmed its rarity. The July 2025 auction saw bids soar as collectors battled it out online, with social media buzzing about the find. The $623,000 final price made headlines, proving that treasures can hide in the most unexpected places.
How to Spot a Valuable $2 Bill
Could you have a $623,000 bill lying around? Here’s what to look for in a 1976 $2 bill: check the serial number for a star () at the end, indicating a replacement note. Low serial numbers (like 00000001 to 00000100*) are the most valuable. Look for a bill in crisp, uncirculated condition—no folds, tears, or stains. The green treasury seal and serial numbers, plus any April 13, 1976, postmark, add value. Don’t fold or clean it; take it to a coin shop or get it graded by PCGS or PMG. Even non-star 1976 bills in great shape can fetch $20-$50, so it’s worth a look.
The Collecting Craze Is On
This $623,000 sale is part of a red-hot coin and currency collecting trend, with rare pennies and quarters also fetching big bucks. The 1976 $2 bill’s patriotic vibe and limited star note production make it a favorite, especially as America nears its 250th anniversary in 2026. Check old books, wallets, or family safes—star notes or error bills like misprints could be hiding. Be wary of fakes; some sellers alter serial numbers to scam buyers. A professional appraisal is key, and sites like eBay or Heritage Auctions can show you what similar bills are worth.
Start Your Treasure Hunt
The $623,000 $2 bill proves that everyday finds can turn into life-changing paydays. With millions of 1976 bills still out there—in change, old envelopes, or forgotten drawers—your next big score could be close. Grab a magnifying glass, check those serial numbers, and visit a coin shop or Stack’s Bowers for guidance. Whether you’re a collector or just curious, this story shows that a humble $2 bill could be your ticket to a fortune. So, next time you’re at a book sale or sorting change, keep an eye out—you might just find a treasure!
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Specifications 
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Details |
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Series Year 
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1976 (Bicentennial) |
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Variety 
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Star note, serial number 00000007* |
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Grade 
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Superb Gem New 68PPQ (PCGS) |
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Composition 
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Paper (cotton-linen blend) |
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Mintage 
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~400 million (1976 $2 bills, few star notes) |
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Auction Price 
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$623,000 (July 2025, Stack’s Bowers) |
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Design |
Thomas Jefferson (obverse), Declaration of Independence (reverse) |
