A ten-dollar bill has a base value of at least ten dollars, but certain rare 10-dollar bills can be valued at an astonishing amount sometimes even equivalent to the price of a small house. To identify the most valuable ten-dollar bills, it’s essential to understand the factors that contribute to their worth. This includes very old notes, unique serial numbers, intriguing printing errors, and highly sought-after uncirculated bills.
10-Dollar Bill Value Chart
If you’re searching for rare ten-dollar bills, having a value chart can be incredibly useful. This guide provides examples that highlight what to look for when checking your wallet. The bills listed below are based on data collected from US Currency Auctions and feature the ultra-rare and valuable 1861 ten-dollar bill.
| Year | Type | Size | Seal Color | Circulated Value | Uncirculated Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1861 | Demand Note | Large | Red | $14,000 – $20,000 | N/A |
| 1863 | Interest Bearing Note | Large | Red | $3,500 – $7,000 | N/A |
| 1878 | Silver Certificate | Large | Red | $10,000 – $35,000 | N/A |
| 1886 | Silver Certificate | Large | Red | $7,500 – $11,000 | $22,500 and up |
| 1915 | National Currency | Large | Blue | $1,500 – $2,800 | $4,000 and up |
| 1934 | Federal Reserve Note | Small | Green | $35 – $65 | $115 and up |
| 1950 | Federal Reserve Note | Small | Green | $24 – $45 | $70 and up |
| 1963 | Federal Reserve Note | Small | Green | $25 – $40 | $65 and up |
| 1974 | Federal Reserve Note | Small | Green | $22 – $32 | $40 and up |
| 1977 | Federal Reserve Note | Small | Green | $21 – $23 | $24 and up |
| 2001 | Federal Reserve Note | Small | Green | $21 | $24 and up |
| 2017 | Federal Reserve Note | Small | Green | $20 | $20 |
Important Information
It’s interesting to note that the ten-dollar bill wasn’t always the same size it is today. Older versions, often referred to as “horse blankets,” were significantly larger, measuring approximately 7.42 by 3.1 inches.
How Rare Are 10-Dollar Bills?
While ten-dollar bills aren’t considered rare, they do have one of the lowest printing volumes among U.S. currency denominations. According to the Federal Reserve, approximately 2.3 billion ten-dollar bills were printed in 2022. This might seem like a substantial number, but it’s more than six times fewer than the number of one-dollar bills printed.
However, there are certain ten-dollar bills that are quite rare and often have unique characteristics. These include older notes, large denominations, unusual serial numbers, and original signatures.
How Much Is a 10-Dollar Bill Worth?
Key Points to Remember
Every ten-dollar bill holds at least its face value, meaning each is worth a minimum of $10. However, large notes and older bills can command significantly higher prices. Many bills printed before 1915 are valued at a minimum of $200, even in reasonable condition.
The value of a ten-dollar bill can vary greatly based on several factors. Here are the main considerations to keep in mind when evaluating the bills in your wallet:
- Condition: Bills that are well-preserved, crisp, and free from rips, creases, or fading will generally have a higher value. Uncirculated bills, which have never been in circulation, are the most valuable.
- Age: Older bills are typically more valuable due to their scarcity. The fewer there are, the more sought after they become.
- Signatures: A ten-dollar bill featuring an original signature (as opposed to a printed or stamped one) is usually worth more.
- Special Serial Numbers: Bills with unique or early serial numbers can significantly increase a bill’s value.
- Errors: Printing errors on ten-dollar bills are rare and often enhance their value. Mistakes such as doubled digits or letters can lead to considerable worth.
5 of the Rarest 10-Dollar Bills of All Time
While it’s unlikely that you have one of these ultra-rare ten-dollar bills in your wallet, it’s intriguing to learn about what makes them so valuable. Here are some of the rarest ten-dollar bills ever produced.
Key Points to Understand
In the world of currency collecting, bills are categorized using Friedberg numbers. This system helps collectors classify paper money based on signature combinations, designs, and various other characteristics, allowing for effective comparisons among similar bills. Certain Friedberg numbers are exceptionally rare and sought after by collectors.
5 of the Rarest 10-Dollar Bills of All Time
$10 1861 Demand Note (Fr. 7a)
The 1861 Demand Note is significant as it marks the first year of paper currency in the United States. Because so few of these bills remain, they hold considerable value. Bills from this year are especially prized, particularly those with low serial numbers. A notable example is a serial number 1 demand note that sold at auction in 2014 for an astonishing $381,875.
$10 1878 Silver Certificate (Fr. 284)
The 1878 Silver Certificate is extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors. Only four of these bills are known to exist in good condition, with one selling for $312,000 in 2023. This particular bill featured vibrant colors, well-preserved paper, and edges, along with an original signature.
$10 1880 Legal Tender (Fr. 109)
Finding an 1880 $10 Legal Tender bill in good condition is quite challenging, as only two examples are known to be highly rated. One of these rare bills fetched $184,000 at auction in 2006, making it one of the most coveted notes among collectors.
$10 1915 Federal Reserve Bank Note (Fr. 817b)
The 1915 Federal Reserve Bank Note is incredibly rare, with only 29 surviving examples in any condition. These notes command high values, particularly when in good shape. For instance, one sold for $126,500 in 2009, especially valuable due to its original signature.
$10 1923 Legal Tender Star Note (Fr. 123)
A star note serves as a replacement for another bill that shares the same serial number, and star notes are especially rare, particularly in older bills. A pristine example of a 1923 $10 star note sold for $92,000 in 2009.
Which 10-Dollar Bill Serial Numbers Are Worth the Most?
While there isn’t a specific lookup tool for assessing the value of 10-dollar bill serial numbers, certain characteristics can increase a bill’s worth. Here are some notable serial numbers to watch for:
- Stars: A star in the serial number indicates that the bill is a replacement, making these notes rare and typically more valuable.
- Palindromes: Serial numbers that read the same forwards and backwards are highly prized among collectors.
- Repeat Digits: Numbers or sequences that repeat within the serial number can enhance the bill’s value.
- Early Serial Numbers: Low serial numbers suggest the bill was one of the first printed that year, adding to its rarity and worth.
Give Your 10-Dollar Bill a Second Look
Before using that ten-dollar bill to pay for lunch, take a moment to examine it. Being aware of which ten-dollar bills hold significant value could save you from trading a hidden treasure for your tuna sandwich!
Conclusion
In conclusion, while a ten-dollar bill typically seems modest, certain rare specimens can fetch jaw-dropping prices, making them worth as much as a house. Whether it’s the unique history of the 1861 Demand Note or the rarity of the 1878 Silver Certificate, these bills capture the imagination of collectors and enthusiasts alike. As you dig through your wallet or old currency collection, remember that what appears to be a simple bill could potentially be a valuable piece of history. Don’t miss out on the chance to uncover something remarkable!
FAQs
1. What makes a 10-dollar bill rare?
A 10-dollar bill is considered rare if it is old, has unique features like low serial numbers or printing errors, or is part of a limited production run.
2. How much can a rare 10-dollar bill be worth?
Rare 10-dollar bills can be worth thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on their condition and historical significance.
3. Where can I sell my rare 10-dollar bills?
You can sell rare 10-dollar bills through auction houses, currency dealers, or online platforms specializing in collectibles.
4. How can I determine if my 10-dollar bill is valuable?
To assess the value of your 10-dollar bill, consider its age, condition, serial number, and any unique features. Consulting a currency expert or guide can also help.