A Dollar Bill Worth Thousands
Next time you get a $1 bill as change, don’t just stuff it in your wallet. A 2017 $1 bill with a rare ladder serial number recently sold for $70,000, and collectors are eager to find more. These bills look ordinary but have a special number pattern that makes them a treasure for currency fans. People across the U.S. are now checking their cash, hoping to spot one of these valuable notes. Could you have one in your pocket?
What Is a Ladder Serial Number?
A ladder serial number is when the digits on a bill go in perfect order, either up or down, like 12345678 or 87654321. U.S. bills have eight-digit serial numbers, so only two perfect ladders are possible per print run, making them super rare. The 2017 $1 bills are still in circulation, which means you might find one in everyday cash. Collectors love these because they’re hard to find and look unique. The condition of the bill also matters a lot for its value.
Why Collectors Pay Big Money
Ladder serial numbers are a big deal because they’re so uncommon. Experts say only one in every 10 million bills has a perfect ladder. The 2017 series is popular since it’s recent but old enough to spark collector interest. A crisp, uncirculated bill with a ladder number can fetch $25,000 to $70,000 at auctions. The recent $70,000 sale happened through a private deal, showing how much collectors will pay for a perfect example in great shape.
How to Check Your $1 Bills
Spotting a ladder serial number is simple if you know what to look for. Here’s how to check your $1 bills:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Find the serial numbers on the top right and bottom left of the bill. |
| 2 | Check if the digits go in order, like 01234567 or 76543210. |
| 3 | Make sure there are no repeats or skips in the sequence. |
If you find a ladder number, don’t fold or damage the bill. Store it flat in a protective sleeve, available at hobby shops, and get it checked by a professional.
Other Serial Numbers to Watch For
Ladder numbers aren’t the only ones collectors want. Other patterns can also make a bill valuable. Here are some to look for:
| Pattern | Example | Potential Value |
|---|---|---|
| Repeater | 45454545 | $100 to $5,000 |
| Radar | 12344321 | $25 to $2,000 |
| Low Number | 00000001 | $50 to $15,000 |
Star notes, with a star in the serial number, can also be worth more. Check sites like MyCurrencyCollection.com for more details on these patterns.
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you have a ladder serial number bill, handle it carefully to keep it in good condition. Contact a currency dealer or grading service like PMG or PCGS to verify it’s real and get its value. You can sell it through online auctions like eBay, at coin shows, or to private collectors. Research recent sales to know what your bill might be worth. A professional appraisal can help you get the best price.
Keep Your Eyes Open
This $70,000 sale proves that a simple $1 bill can be worth a fortune. Whether you’re buying groceries or getting cash from an ATM, take a second to check your bills. A ladder serial number could turn pocket change into a life-changing sum. So, next time you hold a 2017 $1 bill, look at those numbers. You might be holding a small piece of treasure.