Goodbye to simple face value—collectors pay fortunes for banknotes with printing errors, rare sequences, and repeated numbers that seem like mere coincidences

September 7, 2025
Goodbye to simple face value—collectors pay fortunes for banknotes with printing errors, rare sequences, and repeated numbers that seem like mere coincidences

And for those who don’t know yet, yes, a banknote can be worth more than the number printed on the paper. There are banknotes in circulation whose serial number makes them extremely valuable to collectors, who are willing to pay much more than their face value. Some can be worth up to 50 times their face value if they have any of these characteristics.

Although at first glance they may appear to be ordinary bills, certain details can turn them into true inexpensive gems

As with coins, certain banknotes are highly sought after by collectors due to their rarity. From unique sequences to printing errors, these are some of the most sought-after banknotes. Although at first glance they may appear to be ordinary bills, certain details can turn them into true inexpensive gems. For example, a $100 bill with the number 00000001 can fetch up to $15,000 on the collector’s market.

Some banknotes with series near the end, such as 99999925, are highly prized, as they are rarely printed in large quantities

Recognizing these peculiarities can make the difference between a simple banknote and an investment opportunity. Some banknotes with series near the end, such as 99999925, are also highly prized, as they are rarely printed in large quantities. And defects also add up. Printing defects, such as misalignments, double printing, or poorly applied colors, can exponentially increase their value. Due to their rarity, so-called “star notes” are highly sought after.

There are banknotes with identical numbers throughout the series, such as 22222222 and are extremely rare

On the other hand, there are banknotes with a series in ascending (01234567) or descending (98765432) sequence. These types of banknotes are considered a “ladder.” Then there are banknotes that are considered solid. These are banknotes with identical numbers throughout the series, such as 22222222, and are extremely rare. Even “almost solid” versions, with only one different digit, are highly valuable.

Then, if the series consists solely of zeros and ones, they are called ‘true binary’

And of course, there are limited-edition banknotes. Banknotes issued in small quantities or as part of a commemorative series are scarce and therefore highly coveted. Some banknotes include significant years in their serial numbers, such as 1985 or 2000, making them “birthday notes.” The same goes for what are known as pure binary notes. If the series consists solely of zeros and ones, they are called “true binary.” These are of interest not only to banknote collectors but also to computer enthusiasts.

Banknotes with unique sequences, such as 123456789, palindromic numbers, or repeating numbers, are highly valued by collectors

On the other hand, there are also special numbers. Banknotes with unique sequences, such as 123456789, palindromic numbers, or repeating numbers, are highly valued by collectors. The same is true of banknotes that repeat patterns. Series that repeat a pattern of numbers, such as 48648648, are called “repeaters.” If they only use two digits, they become “super repeaters.” There are also very interesting numbers, such as banknotes with only two distinct numbers in their series, such as 66766676, which are binary. Similarly, banknotes that include three distinct numbers are trinary, less valuable but equally attractive.

So, if you’re a collector, you can start a new collection now. It’s interesting that paper money can be worth up to ten times its actual value. Having this information is important if you want to get your hands on one of these practically unique pieces. There are many treasure hunters who are after these gems, which are literally within everyone’s reach.

It’s also important to know that not all old banknotes or coins have a high value. There are certain factors, as explained above, that make them special and valuable. Many people, many collectors, tend to think that just because a banknote is from another era, it’s worth twice as much, but the truth is, that’s not entirely true.