A $2 Bill Worth Millions
Picture getting change at a gas station and finding a $2 bill worth over $2 million. That’s the story of a rare 1890 Grand Watermelon $2 Treasury Note, one of the most valuable pieces of paper money in the world. This bill, nicknamed for its green, striped zeros that look like watermelons, could be tucked away in a cash register or old wallet. Collectors are wild about it, and it’s still possible to find one in circulation, making every $2 bill worth a second look.
Why Is This Bill So Special?
The 1890 Grand Watermelon $2 Treasury Note is valuable because of its unique design and rarity. Printed during a time when U.S. currency was more like art, its large green zeros on the back gave it the “watermelon” name. Only a few hundred were made, and even fewer survive today. In 2018, one in excellent condition sold for $2.512 million at an auction. Its historical value, beautiful design, and scarcity make it a prize for collectors, driving its price sky-high.
| Item Type | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| 1890 Grand Watermelon $2 | Up to $2.512 million |
| Regular $2 Bill | About $2 |
Where Could It Be Hiding?
This rare $2 bill could be anywhere. People often keep $2 bills as lucky charms or stash them in drawers, thinking they’re just quirky. Since they’re still legal tender, some could be in circulation, passed as change at stores or restaurants. In 2021, a woman in Texas found a valuable $2 bill from the 1800s in her late father’s collection, selling it for $150,000. Check old envelopes, family heirlooms, or even gas station change, you might stumble across a fortune.
How to Spot the Million-Dollar Bill
Spotting the Grand Watermelon $2 bill takes careful attention. Look for a $2 bill dated 1890 with “Treasury Note” written on it, not “Federal Reserve Note” like modern bills. The back should have large, green zeros that look like watermelons. These bills are larger than today’s money, about 7.5 by 3 inches. If you find one, don’t fold or damage it, that can lower its value. Take it to a currency dealer or auction house to confirm its authenticity and worth.
| Feature to Check | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Date and Type | 1890, “Treasury Note” |
| Back Design | Large green zeros like watermelons |
The Excitement of Collecting
Collecting paper money, called numismatics, is a hobby full of surprises. The 1890 Grand Watermelon $2 bill is a star in this world, but other rare $2 bills, like the 1869 Rainbow Note, can also fetch thousands. Stories of people finding valuable money in unexpected places, like attics or flea markets, keep collectors hunting. Even if you don’t find a million-dollar bill, checking $2 bills can uncover smaller treasures worth hundreds or more.
Check Your Change Carefully
The idea that a $2 bill from a gas station could be worth $2.512 million is thrilling. It shows how treasures can hide in everyday places. Next time you get a $2 bill in change or find one in an old wallet, take a closer look. You might have the rare 1890 Grand Watermelon Treasury Note, ready to turn a small piece of paper into a life-changing jackpot. Grab a magnifying glass and start checking, your next big find could be just a bill away!