The numismatic community is in luck, another great find has recently surfaced, and it has made a definite splash with collectors and enthusiasts alike. A 1914 Federal Reserve Note from Philadelphia, $50 dollar bill, was recently sold at auction for $1,700, more than thirty times its original value.

The bill was quite unique in some of its markings, as it has a Fr-1035 stamp, a model that dates back more than a century, and was graded Choice Very Fine (VF) 35, indicating its good condition. These graded bills are not as rare as one might expect, but they are quite sought-after by collectors, and they tend to fetch a higher price. In fact, most are willing to pay a premium and splurge on a bill of this caliber just to add it to their collection.

What makes this 50 dollar bill stand out

Many things separate this bill form other of the same denomination, but the first thing that jumps to mind is its peculiar and beautiful design. On the reverse of the bill, we can see printed an allegorical figure representing Panama, holding a caduceus. It is accompanied by two ships in the ocean, giving the overall design a visual appeal that is hard to resist. The beauty of this particular motif makes it quite the catch for any serious or amateur collector looking to display the item.

The sale was brokered by the auction house Heritage Auctions and it took place on June 25, 2024. After some bidding, the final sale was adjudicated to a buyer for a total of $1,805, which included the buyer’s premium. Since this is such a rare bill, the value for which it was sold did not correspond at all with its legal tender value, which is a normal occurrence nowadays with any bill or coin that has distinguishing features and is rare enough that production was short.

The value of rare bills and coins

Usually mistakes while printing, limited runs of designs or commemorative motifs can make a bill or coin fetch surprising value on the open auction market, and many private and public collectors have acquisitions valued in the millions.

While you may consider that auctions are not for you, as prices can get quite steep, coins and bills can be a good place to invest some money, as the more exotic items kept in good condition rarely depreciate in value, and its resale can get some more money than expected, especially for the more rare pieces.

There are many ways to acquire a new piece for a collection, like for example secondhand sellers or eBay for the most enterprising amongst the new collectors. The problem with online platforms is that it can be very hard to make an informed decision, especially to the untrained eye, and you may end up overpaying for a more common bill or a more damaged piece with a compromised value.

There are still some options that could fit any budget, especially for those that are just starting and do not a have a high amount to spend. The most important thing is to research the bill or coin in question, look thoroughly at the pictures to ensure as much authenticity as possible and a good condition of the item. Remember to also always use good practices when shopping online and verify the purchase with an accredited dealer, especially if you are planning to ensure the collection, as fraud is prevalent and can especially affect those who are new to the hobby.

If you have the chance to find old bills

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on your way, don’t hesitate to check them out. They might hide surprises that change your perspective on the value of paper money.