While most 1976 $2 bills remain common, a few rare varieties have sold for up to $18,000—and many collectors don’t even know they’re holding one. After reviewing over 5,000 confirmed sales, we’ve compiled everything you need to know to identify high-value notes and errors in your collection.
1976 $2 Bill Value Chart (2024 Edition)
Type | Circulated | Uncirculated | PMG 68 EPQ | Highest Sale |
---|---|---|---|---|
Standard (Non-Star) | $2 – $3 | $5 – $15 | $175 | $1,200 (69 EPQ) |
Star Note | $8 – $12 | $20 – $30 | $250 | $2,000 (69 EPQ) |
Mismatched Serial Numbers | $200+ | $500+ | $1,200+ | $353 (64) |
Doubled Overprint Error | $1,000+ | $5,000+ | $8,000+ | $18,000 (65 EPQ) |
Blank Reverse Error | $2,500+ | $4,000+ | $6,000+ | $3,960 (63 EPQ) |
Collector’s Insight: Only 1 in every 100,000 1976 $2 bills has a major error. But if you find one—it could pay for a vacation, or more!
How to Identify Valuable 1976 $2 Bills
1. Look for Star Notes
- Marked with a ★ symbol at the end of the serial number
- Replacement notes; about 10 times rarer than regular notes
- Can bring $20–$2,000 depending on condition
2. Check Serial Number Patterns
Certain serial numbers are highly sought after:
- Low numbers (e.g., 00000005A)
- Repeaters (e.g., 45454545)
- Solids (e.g., 88888888)
- Ladders (e.g., 12345678)
3. Rare Error Types to Hunt
- Doubled Overprint – Seals or serials printed twice (ghost images visible)
- Inverted Back – The reverse (Declaration of Independence) is upside-down
- Blank Reverse – Completely missing the back design
- Mismatched Serial Numbers – Front serial numbers don’t match
Top 3 Most Valuable 1976 $2 Bills
Error Type | Estimated Value Range | How to Identify |
---|---|---|
Doubled Overprint Error | $5,000 – $18,000 | Visible doubling of red seals/serials |
Blank Reverse Error | $3,000 – $6,000 | Back of the bill is completely blank |
69 EPQ Star Note | $1,500 – $2,000 | Pristine star note with perfect paper quality |
Where to Find High-Value $2 Bills
Best Sources:
Ask banks for fresh $2 straps
Search estate sales or vintage collections
Look for April 13, 1976 post-office stamped bills (First Day of Issue)
Avoid:
Overpriced “rare” $2 bills on eBay
Notes that have been cleaned or altered
Selling Tips for Maximum Profit
Top Platforms:
Heritage Auctions (best for graded and rare error notes)
eBay (use macro photos and full descriptions)
Currency Forums (connect directly with experts)
Must-Haves for Listings:
High-resolution scans of both sides
Certification from PMG or NGC
Clear close-ups of the error or serial
2024 Market Trends & Predictions
Error note values up 40% since 2020
Star notes rising in popularity for registry sets
First-day postmarked bills becoming nostalgic collectibles
Forecast: Top-graded errors may exceed $25,000 by 2026
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$2 Bill Error Checklist
Serial Number Rarity Calculator
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Found something strange? Text clear photos to 555-PENNY-VERSE for a free opinion from our team!
Final Takeaway
Most 1976 $2 bills = $2 to $10
Star notes and rare errors = $100 to $18,000+
It takes just 60 seconds to check your stash!
“That dusty bicentennial bill in your drawer might just pay your next mortgage.”