Old $100 Bills – If you’ve got an old $100 bill tucked away in a drawer or slipped into your wallet, you may be holding onto more than just cash – you might be holding a hidden treasure. While most people overlook older currency, collectors and numismatists are always on the hunt for specific vintage bills, especially the large-face versions of the U.S. $100 bills issued in the past. Shockingly, some of these notes are now selling for as much as $30,000 or more depending on their serial number, condition, and rarity! These old bills, particularly those with Benjamin Franklin’s larger portrait, are becoming increasingly valuable due to their limited circulation and printing variations. With inflation driving up the value of collectibles and older currency becoming more desirable, now is the time to stop spending and start checking your bills. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just a curious wallet-holder, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to identify and potentially cash in on these rare pieces of U.S. currency history.
What Are Old $100 Bills With Big Faces?
Big-face $100 bills refer to the redesigned notes first introduced in 1996 that feature a much larger portrait of Benjamin Franklin than earlier series.
- Introduced in Series 1996 and continued till Series 2006.
- The portrait is off-centered and larger than previous bills.
- These notes also included enhanced security features.
- Some specific printings and serial numbers are considered rare.
- Bills printed with errors or from rare Federal Reserve Banks can fetch high prices.
- Star notes (indicated by a star symbol in serial number) are especially valuable.
- Collectors pay a premium for bills in uncirculated or crisp condition.
Which $100 Bills Can Be Worth $30,000 or More?
Not all old $100 bills are valuable, but some rare versions can bring massive returns.
| Series Year | Type of Note | Estimated Value Range | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1996 | Star Notes | $1,000 – $30,000+ | Star symbol in serial number |
| 1996 | Printing Errors | $5,000 – $25,000 | Misprints or alignment flaws |
| 2001 | Rare Serial Nos | $500 – $5,000+ | Palindromes, low numbers |
| 1996 | Low Serial Nos | $2,000 – $15,000 | Starting with 00000001 |
| 1999 | Federal Reserve K | $800 – $3,500 | Rare reserve bank printing |
| 2003 | Star Notes | $3,000 – $20,000 | Very few printed |
| 2006 | Error + Star | $10,000 – $30,000+ | Combo of misprint + star |
How to Identify a Rare $100 Bill
You can do a quick self-check using the following tips:
- Look at the serial number – rare patterns include:
- All same digits (e.g. 88888888)
- Low numbers (e.g. 00000005)
- Star at the end (e.g. AB12345678*)
- Check for any print errors like:
- Misaligned borders
- Upside-down seals
- Missing security threads
- Observe the Federal Reserve Bank identifier letter – some are rarer than others.
- See if the bill is crisp, uncirculated, or has folds and marks.
- The older and cleaner it is, the more likely it has collector appeal.
Where to Sell Your Rare $100 Bills
If you find a rare or valuable old $100 bill, don’t rush to deposit it in the bank. Here are your best options to sell:
- eBay Auctions – Many collectors search listings daily.
- Heritage Auctions – Trusted name in rare currency.
- Currency Dealers – Contact a certified paper money expert.
- Numismatic Shows – Attend currency or coin expos.
- Online Forums – Post clear photos for valuation advice.
| Platform | Potential Buyer Base | Fees/Commission | Ease of Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| eBay | High | 10-13% | Easy for beginners |
| Heritage Auctions | High-end collectors | Commission-based | Requires approval |
| Coin Shops | Local collectors | Minimal | Depends on trust |
| Reddit/Forums | Medium | Free | Needs active members |
| Facebook Groups | Medium | Free | Depends on admins |
Tips Before You Sell
Getting the best value means taking a few precautions before selling your note.
- Don’t fold or iron the bill – condition matters!
- Place it in a protective currency sleeve.
- Don’t tape or write on the note.
- Take high-quality, well-lit photos front and back.
- Get a second opinion before accepting any offers.
Expert Grading Matters
If your bill seems rare, consider professional grading from services like:
- PMG (Paper Money Guaranty)
- PCGS Currency
Grading agencies can boost your sale value and offer authentication for serious buyers.
Bonus Tip: Avoid Scams!
When dealing with high-value currency, be alert:
- Don’t ship the bill without payment guarantee.
- Use trusted platforms with buyer protection.
- Avoid direct bank transfers from unknown sources.
While many of these old bills are still worth their face value, a surprising number are now collector items worth far more. If you happen to stumble upon a big-head $100 bill in your old wallet, family safe, or while sorting through old belongings, make sure to give it a proper inspection. You just might be holding thousands in your hands – all for a note you could’ve spent on groceries. Take time to verify its serial number, series year, and condition. Even if you’re not a collector, there’s a growing market out there ready to pay top dollar for what might seem like “just another bill.”
FAQs
1. What is a “Big Head” $100 bill?
It refers to $100 bills printed after 1996 that have a larger portrait of Benjamin Franklin, shifted slightly off-center.
2. What makes these bills worth thousands?
Rare serial numbers, star notes, print errors, and uncirculated condition can make them highly valuable to collectors.
3. Where can I check the value of my $100 bill?
You can consult eBay, currency valuation websites, or take it to a certified numismatist for professional assessment.
4. Is it safe to sell old bills online?
Yes, if you use trusted platforms like eBay, Heritage Auctions, or certified currency dealers with buyer protections.
5. Can I deposit a rare $100 bill in the bank?
Yes, but you’ll only get its face value. To profit from its rarity, you should sell it to a collector or through an auction.
