Once dismissed as unlucky or awkward, the $2 bill is now catching the attention of collectors — and it might be worth far more than its face value. Once believed to bring bad luck, the humble “deuce” was often mutilated by tearing off its corners, a superstition meant to break its so-called curse. But far from being a jinx, this bill could be a hidden treasure.
Although it’s been overlooked for decades, the $2 bill never disappeared. In fact, as of 2023, the Federal Reserve reported about 1.6 billion $2 bills still in circulation — a small number compared to the 14.5 billion $1 bills and 11.2 billion $20 bills. Their relatively low circulation gives the illusion of rarity, and that’s part of their growing mystique.
Historically, the $2 note has had a bumpy ride. First issued in 1862 featuring Alexander Hamilton, it was redesigned in 1869 to display a portrait of Thomas Jefferson, which remains the face of the bill to this day. The reverse originally depicted Jefferson’s estate, Monticello, but was later changed to the iconic image of the signing of the Declaration of Independence — a nod to Jefferson’s authorship of the historic document.
Despite its history, the bill was rarely favored. The Bureau of Engraving and Printing explained that it was unpopular for most of its lifespan and often returned to the Treasury in damaged form. Even newspapers like The New York Times reported in 1925 that gamblers avoided it for fear of bad luck. Still, its persistence has carved out a cult following and even inspired a documentary, The Two Dollar Bill (2015), which explores its cultural and historical significance.
But what really makes the $2 bill exciting today is its potential value among collectors. Certain versions are worth far more than two dollars — sometimes thousands. Uncirculated notes printed between 1862 and 1896 with red, brown, or blue seals can fetch as much as $5,000. Circulated bills from the same era still hold impressive value, often selling for up to $1,100 depending on their condition.
Even bills from 1917 to 1928 with red or blue seals can command anywhere from $50 to $1,000. Their worth depends on several factors: the year of printing, seal color, print method, and even the issuing location. Notes with “fancy serial numbers” — such as repeating digits or palindromes — can also skyrocket in value, with rare examples reaching up to $6,000.
So, if you’ve got a $2 bill tucked away in a drawer or forgotten in a wallet, it’s time to take a closer look. That overlooked note might be far more valuable than you ever imagined. Whether you’re a collector or just curious, this is a perfect reason to check your cash and see if luck — and history — might just be on your side.