A $100 Bill Worth Thousands
Imagine finding a $100 bill in your wallet that could be worth way more than its face value. The 2013 $100 bill has a rare version that collectors are crazy about due to a printing mistake. Known as the “Star Note” or “ladder serial number” error, these bills can sell for thousands of dollars. With $100 bills still floating around in wallets and cash registers, checking yours could lead to a big payday.
What Makes the 2013 $100 Bill Special
The 2013 $100 bill shows Benjamin Franklin on the front and Independence Hall on the back. The rare versions have unique serial numbers. A Star Note has a star symbol at the end of the serial number, showing it was a replacement bill printed after a mistake. Even rarer is the ladder serial number, where the digits go in order, like 12345678901 or 98765432100. These are super hard to find, and collectors pay top dollar for them.
| Feature | Regular 2013 $100 Bill | Star Note |
|---|---|---|
| Serial Number | Standard digits | Ends with a star symbol |
| Print Run | Common | Limited replacement |
How to Spot the Rare Bill
To find a valuable 2013 $100 bill, check the serial number on the front. It’s printed in green ink on the left and right sides. Look for a star at the end of the serial number for a Star Note. For a ladder serial number, see if the digits go in a clear sequence, like 12345678901. Also, check the bill’s condition. Crisp, unworn bills are worth more. Use a magnifying glass to spot the blue security ribbon and tiny microtext that says “USA 100” to make sure it’s real.
| Feature | Where to Look | What to Check |
|---|---|---|
| Serial Number | Left and right of front | Star or ladder pattern |
| Security Ribbon | Middle of bill | Blue, 3D, bell images |
Where to Find These Bills
These rare $100 bills could be anywhere money changes hands. Check cash from ATMs, store change, or even tips if you work in a service job. Star Notes were printed in small batches, so they’re uncommon but still in circulation. Ladder serial numbers are even rarer, with only a handful known to exist. Look through rolls of $100 bills from banks or check older cash stashed in drawers or safes for the best chance.
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you’ve got a rare 2013 $100 bill, don’t use it to pay for anything. Take it to a professional currency grader like PCGS or NGC to verify it’s real and check its condition. A Star Note in great shape can sell for hundreds, while a ladder serial number could fetch thousands or more. Store the bill in a plastic sleeve to keep it safe. Joining a currency collecting club or following auction news can help you learn what these bills are worth.
Why Collectors Love It
The 2013 $100 bill with a Star Note or ladder serial number is a collector’s dream because of its rarity and the thrill of finding a printing mistake. These errors make the bill a unique piece of U.S. money history. In 2025, rare serial number bills have sold for high prices at auctions, sparking a hunt among collectors. Even a slightly worn Star Note can bring in extra cash. So, next time you get a $100 bill, take a quick look at the serial number. You might be holding a small fortune.