Check your $5 notes A simple five dollar note might not seem like much—just enough for a quick coffee or a snack. But what if one of these notes sold for thousands? That’s what happened recently when a rare five dollar note with a mismatched serial number sold at auction for an incredible $78,000. If you’re in the US and carry cash, it might be worth taking a closer look at what’s in your wallet.
What makes this $5 bill so special? Check your $5 notes
The $5 note that sold for $78,000 was neither printed with gold nor studded with diamonds. Its price is due to an extremely rare printing error—specifically, mismatched serial numbers.
Usually, both serial numbers on US notes (on the upper right and lower left corner) are the same. But in this case, they were completely different, creating an extraordinary discrepancy in the note. Such errors occur when the printing process goes awry, and the note somehow escapes quality control and enters circulation.
Such errors are extremely rare, especially in newer notes, and collectors are always on the lookout for these oddities.
How do mismatched serial numbers happen?
Mismatched serial number errors usually occur during the third printing step at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. Background and portrait images are printed on the back of the notes before the serial numbers and stamp are applied.
If there is a mechanical failure or misfeeding during this process, the note could end up with two mismatched serial numbers, which is a serious error in terms of currency production but a huge benefit to collectors.
Other signs your $5 note is valuable
Although mismatched serial numbers are the most sought-after, there are a few other signs that can make a $5 note valuable:
Star notes: These are replacement notes with a star at the end of the serial number.
Low serial numbers: Such as 00000001 or less than 00000100.
Repeater or radar pattern: Serial numbers such as 12211221 or 45545554 are very useful.
High quality (uncirculated): The note should be clean, clear and without folds or tears.
Along with the rare error in printing, any of these features can increase its value.
Where to get your bill checked
If you think you have a valuable $5 bill, consider these steps:
Compare serial numbers: Always make sure the two match. If not, you may be looking at something special.
Visit a numismatist or dealer: Numismatists can give you an instant valuation.
Get an appraisal: Sending your bill to companies like PMG (Paper Money Guarantee) can confirm its authenticity and get you an appraisal.
Check online auction results: Check out recent listings for similar bills on platforms like Heritage Auctions or eBay.
Real-life jackpot: $78,000 sale
The mismatched five dollar bill that recently made headlines was discovered by someone who noticed that its serial numbers didn’t match. After the note was authenticated and graded, it was put up for auction—and sold for a whopping $78,000.
This sale reminds us that even the most ordinary thing like a five dollar bill can hold extraordinary value.
Why Collectors Love Error-Free Notes
Collectors are always looking for rarity and uniqueness. Error-free notes are attractive because they are inadvertently printed once—no two notes are the same, and their rarity often drives demand. Although millions of error-free notes are printed each year, such error-free notes are few and far between.
1. What is this news about the $5 note?
A rare $5 note with mismatched serial numbers recently sold for $78,000 at auction. Due to its printing mistake, this note became a collectors dream. The mismatched serial numbers were its specialty, which made it extremely valuable.
What is a “mismatched serial number”?
Every banknote usually has two identical serial numbers—one on each side. In this rare case, the two serial numbers printed on the note were not the same, which is a major printing error. Such mistakes are extremely rare and are very important to currency collectors.
When and where was this note printed?
This note is believed to have been printed by the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing in 2016, although there may be discrepancies in serial numbers in different years. The exact printing year may vary for other notes with similar errors.
4. Why is this printing error so valuable?
Currency collectors look for rarity, uniqueness and official printing errors. A mismatched serial number is an authentic U.S. serial number. It is a mint error, not a counterfeit or damaged one. Since so few notes are in circulation, their market value has skyrocketed.
How can I find out if my $5 note is worth thousands?
Look closely at both serial numbers on your $5 note. If they don’t match, you may have a rare note. Make sure:
The note is real, not fake.
The mismatch is at the time of printing and hasn’t been tampered with.
It’s in good condition.
6. Does this error only apply to $5 notes?
No. Mismatched serial numbers can appear on notes of any denomination—$1, $5, $10, $20, etc. However, the $5 note in question has been in the news for its high selling price.
7. How many such flawed notes exist?
Very few. These are rare errors—perhaps one in a million. Most are caught during quality checks, so the few that make it into circulation are considered exceptional.
8. Where can I sell such a note?
You can sell rare flawed notes through:
Auction houses (e.g., Heritage Auctions)
Numismatics dealers
Online platforms like eBay (beware of fraud)
Currency collector forums or groups
Always have it professionally authenticated before selling.
9. Can I get a flawed note from a bank?
Very unlikely. Banks distribute standard, flawless currency. It’s mostly up to luck and a keen eye whether such a note enters circulation. But it is possible!
10. How do I protect such a valuable banknote?
- If you find a rare note:
- Don’t bend or damage it
- Keep it in a protective currency wrapper
- Avoid exposure to moisture or light
- Have it appraised and graded by a professional service like PCGS or PMG
- Additional tips: What other errors in currency are valuable?
- In addition to mismatched serial numbers, collectors also pay for: