JamesGunn
When it comes to U.S. paper money, star notes are among the most fascinating finds for collectors. Printed as replacement notes, they carry a star symbol at the end of the serial number.
Because of their low production numbers, some $50 star notes can be worth far more than their face value—sometimes thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars.
Here are five of the rarest and most valuable $50 star notes to keep an eye on.
1) 1928 $50 Gold Certificate Star Note
The 1928 $50 Gold Certificate star is considered one of the rarest of all. With a very limited surviving population, examples in high grade have fetched five-figure prices at auction.
In fact, some uncirculated examples have sold for over $40,000, making this note a true prize for advanced collectors.
2) 1928 $50 Federal Reserve Note – Minneapolis Star
From the same year, the 1928 $50 Federal Reserve star note from the Minneapolis district is extremely scarce. Reports suggest that only a handful exist today.
Even circulated examples can command thousands of dollars, and if one appears in uncirculated condition, it can skyrocket in value.
3) 1928 $50 Federal Reserve Note in Top Grade
While many 1928 $50 star notes are collectible, those in Gem Uncirculated condition are in a different league. A single note graded at the highest levels can attract competitive bidding, with prices reaching into the high four figures.
Collectors value not only the rarity of the star note but also the impeccable preservation of the paper, margins, and ink.
4) 1934 $50 Federal Reserve Star Notes
The 1934 series is popular among collectors because of its variety of sub-series (1934, 1934A–D). Certain districts, such as Cleveland, Dallas, and Minneapolis, are much harder to find in star note form.
While mid-grade examples might sell for a few hundred dollars, uncirculated pieces can be worth $1,000 to $3,000 or more depending on the district.
5) Modern 2021 $50 Star Notes with Low Print Runs
Not all valuable star notes are old. Series 2021 $50 star notes with low print runs are already considered collectibles. Some batches were printed in very small numbers, such as 320,000-run replacements, making them far scarcer than typical print runs.
If you find one of these in crisp, uncirculated condition, it may already be worth more than face value and could increase further over time.
Quick Reference
| Note (Series & Type) | District/Type | Why It’s Rare | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1928 $50 Gold Certificate ★ | Gold Certificate | Extremely low survival numbers | $10,000 – $40,000+ |
| 1928 FRN $50 Minneapolis ★ | Federal Reserve “I” | One of the scarcest star notes known | $5,000 – $15,000+ |
| 1928 FRN $50 in Gem ★ | Federal Reserve | Rare in top-grade uncirculated condition | $3,000 – $8,000+ |
| 1934 FRN $50 ★ | Select districts | Scarce districts & high-grade examples | $1,000 – $3,000+ |
| 2021 FRN $50 Low-Run ★ | Modern replacements | Very low print runs (320k) | $100 – $500+ in Gem |
How to Spot a Valuable $50 Star Note
- Check for the star at the end of the serial number.
- Look up the print run size—anything under 640,000 is generally desirable, and 320,000 runs are considered scarce.
- Condition is key: crisp, uncirculated examples are worth much more than worn or folded notes.
- Know the series and district: some combinations are far rarer than others.
$50 star notes combine the appeal of rarity, history, and condition-driven value. From the 1928 Gold Certificate star worth tens of thousands to modern 2021 low-run notes quietly rising in value, these bills prove that even ordinary-looking money can hide extraordinary worth.
If you happen to spot a star at the end of your $50 bill’s serial number, it may be more than just cash—it could be a fortune in your wallet.
FAQs
Rarity, print run size, series year, district, and condition all play a role. Older series and low-run replacements are especially desirable.
Yes. Modern notes from small replacement runs can already fetch more than face value, particularly in uncirculated condition.
Collectors often sell rare notes through coin and currency auctions, specialized dealers, or online marketplaces where paper money collectors gather.