Did you know that a seemingly ordinary 1986 $5 bill could be worth thousands of dollars? These bills, known as star notes, are rare and highly sought after by collectors.
Despite being issued nearly four decades ago, many of these notes are still in circulation today. This article delves into the details of these valuable star notes, how to identify them, and their current market value.
What Are Star Notes?
Star notes are replacement bills issued by the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) to replace misprinted or damaged currency during the printing process.
The star symbol (*) at the end of the serial number distinguishes these notes from regular ones. The presence of a star indicates that the note was printed to maintain the correct count of currency in circulation.
1986 $5 Star Notes: A Closer Look
The 1986 $5 star notes were part of the Series 1986 Federal Reserve Notes, which featured a portrait of President Abraham Lincoln on the front and the Lincoln Memorial on the reverse.
These notes were printed in various districts, each identified by a letter in the serial number.
Key Features
- Series Year: 1986
- Denomination: $5
- Portrait: Abraham Lincoln
- Reverse Image: Lincoln Memorial
- Star Symbol: Indicates a replacement note
Factors Influencing Value
The value of a 1986 $5 star note depends on several factors:
- Condition: Uncirculated notes are worth more than those that are heavily worn.
- Serial Number: Unique or low serial numbers can increase value.
- District: Certain districts are rarer than others.
- Print Run Size: Smaller print runs make a note more valuable.
Current Market Value
As of 2025, the market value of a 1986 $5 star note varies:
- Circulated Notes: Approximately $200 to $500
- Uncirculated Notes: Up to $1,000 or more, depending on condition and rarity
- Low Serial Numbers: Can fetch several thousand dollars
For instance, a 1986 $5 star note in uncirculated condition with a low serial number recently sold for over $5,000 at auction.
How to Identify a 1986 $5 Star Note
To determine if you have a 1986 $5 star note, look for:
- Star Symbol: Located at the end of the serial number.
- Series Year: 1986, found on the front of the note.
- Serial Number: Should be unique and not duplicated.
Where to Sell Your Star Notes
If you believe you have a valuable 1986 $5 star note, consider selling it through:
- Online Marketplaces: eBay and other auction sites.
- Currency Dealers: Specialized dealers in rare currency.
- Coin Shows: Events where collectors gather to buy and sell.
Estimated Value Based on Condition
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated | $200 – $500 |
| Uncirculated | $1,000+ |
| Low Serial # | $5,000+ |
The 1986 $5 star note is a valuable piece of currency history. While many are still in circulation, only a few are in pristine condition or have rare serial numbers, making them highly sought after by collectors. If you come across one, it’s worth examining closely—it could be worth more than you think!
FAQs
How can I tell if my 1986 $5 bill is a star note?
A star note has a star symbol (*) at the end of the serial number.
Are all 1986 $5 star notes valuable?
Not all; the value depends on condition, serial number, and rarity.
Where can I check the production numbers of my star note?
You can use the Star Note Lookup tool at MyCurrencyCollection.