Have you ever checked the serial number on your dollar bills? A rare 2017 $1 bill with a “ladder” serial number could be worth up to $65,000 to collectors! These special bills are hard to find, but they’re out there in wallets, cash registers, and bank drawers across the USA. This article will explain what a ladder serial number is, why it’s valuable, and how you can spot one. Let’s dive in and see if you’re holding a small fortune!
What Is a Ladder Serial Number?
A ladder serial number is a dollar bill’s serial number where the digits go in a perfect sequence, either up or down, like a ladder. For example, a serial number like 12345678 or 87654321 is a true ladder. These are super rare because the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing makes billions of bills, and only a tiny fraction get these unique numbers. Collectors love them for their perfect order, which makes them stand out from random serial numbers.
There are also “near-ladder” numbers, like 12345679, where one digit is off, but these aren’t as valuable. For the 2017 $1 bill, true ladders are the ones fetching big bucks—sometimes $50,000 to $65,000, depending on the bill’s condition. Uncirculated bills (crisp, no folds) are worth the most, but even used ones can sell for thousands.
Why Are 2017 Ladder Bills So Special?
The 2017 $1 bill is part of a series printed to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Federal Reserve’s currency production. Only a small batch of these bills ended up with ladder serial numbers, making them a hot item for collectors. According to posts on X and numismatic websites, collectors are willing to pay top dollar for these bills, especially if the serial number is a perfect ladder. The rarity and the historical significance of the 2017 series drive up the value.
Demand for ladder bills has spiked in recent years as more people learn about them through social media and collector forums. A bill with a serial number like 01234567 could be worth more than a car to the right buyer! But you need to know what to look for to cash in.
How to Check Your $1 Bill
Spotting a ladder serial number is easy once you know what to do. Here’s a simple guide to check your 2017 $1 bills:
- Look at the serial number: It’s the green number printed twice on the front of the bill, usually starting with a letter, followed by eight digits, and ending with a letter (e.g., A12345678B).
- Check for a sequence: A true ladder goes 12345678 or 87654321. Ignore the letters at the start and end.
- Verify the year: The bill should say “Series 2017” near the portrait of George Washington.
- Inspect the condition: Collectors pay more for bills that are crisp, clean, and uncirculated.
If you find a bill that matches, don’t spend it! Take it to a reputable coin shop or contact a currency collector for an appraisal.
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you have a 2017 ladder bill, handle it carefully to keep its value. Store it in a protective sleeve or holder to avoid creases or tears. You can check its worth by contacting a professional appraiser or posting it on a trusted collector site like eBay or Heritage Auctions. Be cautious of scams—only deal with well-known buyers or auction houses.
Here’s a quick table to summarize key details:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Serial Number | 12345678 or 87654321 (true ladder) |
| Series Year | 2017 |
| Value (Uncirculated) | Up to $65,000 |
| Value (Circulated) | $1,000–$10,000, depending on condition |
| Where to Sell | Coin shops, eBay, Heritage Auctions |
Start Checking Your Cash!
Next time you get a $1 bill, take a second to check the serial number. That 2017 bill in your pocket could be a hidden gem worth thousands. Ladder serial numbers are like winning a mini lottery for collectors, and the 2017 series is especially hot right now. Keep your eyes peeled, and you might just find a bill that turns pocket change into a big payday!