The Value of Old Federal Reserve Notes

Federal Reserve notes vary in value.

Federal Reserve notes have been authorized currency since 1913. The have replaced United States notes and silver and gold certificates as the common currency. The value of old notes varies with age, condition and rarity of the note.

Age

Paper money is a relatively new form of currency and Federal Reserve notes only go back to 1913. The age difference of Federal Reserve notes will not be as great as U.S. notes or coins, but can add some value.

Rarity

More than age, rarity will determine the value of paper money. Notes from years or money series in high demand and little supply will fetch more money than older notes in abundant supply. Other rarities include misprinted notes or notes with other printing errors.

Condition

Notes are graded on a 1-70 scale, with 70 being the most valuable. Factors that lower the grade of the note include fading, discoloration, folds, tears and wrinkling. Notes with a low grade are only worth the face value, while high quality notes can fetch many times their face value.

References

• Society of Paper Money Collectors: What's It Worth?
• OldCurrencyValues.com: How To Grade Paper Money
• RareTreasures.com: Paper Currency

Resources

• Society of Paper Money Collectors
• American Numismatic Association