At one time, the humble $2 bill was steeped in superstition—widely believed by some to carry a curse or jinx. Superstitious users even went as far as tearing off its corners in hopes of reversing the supposed bad luck. But in a twist worthy of irony, this once-avoided note could now bring its holder anything but misfortune—potentially offering a payout of hundreds, even thousands, of dollars.

Though it’s often mistaken for being out of print or obsolete, the $2 bill is still very much part of U.S. currency. In fact, the Federal Reserve reports that as of 2023, there were about 1.6 billion $2 bills in circulation. That’s a small number compared to the 14.5 billion $1 bills out there, but it proves the note is far from extinct.

Still, for much of its history, the $2 bill has been the odd one out. The Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) notes that the bill has long been considered unlucky and awkward to use. In the early 20th century, some people even viewed it as taboo in gambling. A New York Times article from 1925 famously wrote, “He who sits in a game of chance with a two-dollar bill in his pocket is thought to be saddled with a jinx.”

Despite these quirks, the $2 bill has been making a quiet comeback, gaining momentum since the early 2000s. And now, thanks to its unique history and low circulation, certain versions of the $2 bill have become quite valuable to collectors.

What Makes a $2 Bill Valuable?

The most common $2 bill in circulation features a portrait of Thomas Jefferson on the front and a depiction of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on the back. But over the years, both the design and printing features have varied.

If you’re holding onto a $2 bill and curious about its potential worth, here’s what you should look for:

• Year of issue: Bills printed between 1862 and 1896 with red, brown, or blue seals can be worth up to $5,000 in uncirculated condition. Even used versions from these years may fetch up to $1,100.

• Series from 1917 to 1928: These paper notes with red or blue seals can be valued anywhere from $50 to $1,000, depending on condition.

• Fancy serial numbers: If your bill has a unique or repeating serial number—such as 00000002, 1234321, or 77777777—it could be worth as much as $6,000 to the right collector.

Values are influenced by condition (uncirculated bills are worth more), rarity, the seal color, and printing details, such as the Federal Reserve Bank location and serial number patterns. Many collectors are willing to pay a premium for well-preserved, rare notes.

A Rich History

The $2 bill made its debut in 1862 and originally featured Alexander Hamilton, but by 1869, it was redesigned to feature Thomas Jefferson—an image that remains to this day. Originally, the back of the bill showed Monticello, Jefferson’s Virginia estate. However, the reverse was later changed to the now-famous vignette of the Declaration of Independence, making the bill both a piece of currency and a nod to American history.

Still in Circulation—and Still Underrated

Though no longer viewed as unlucky by most, the $2 bill remains a curiosity. Some stores hesitate to accept them, while others enjoy the surprise they spark at the register. The bill has even become the subject of a 2015 documentary, The Two Dollar Bill, which explores its history, uses, and unique place in American culture.

So, if you happen to come across one of these oft-overlooked notes, it might be worth more than just pocket change. Take a closer look—you could be holding a hidden treasure worth thousands.

Do you have a $2 bill sitting in a drawer? You might want to check it again! And if this story gave you a new appreciation for this quirky bit of currency, don’t forget to share it with your friends—it might inspire them to go searching through their wallets, too.