Imagine finding a $5 bill in your pocket that’s worth up to $48,000! In 2025, a 2017A series $5 bill with a rare microprinting flaw sold for this jaw-dropping amount at auction, sparking excitement among currency collectors. This discovery has people everywhere checking their cash for similar treasures.
What makes this bill so special? A tiny printing error that’s hard to spot but highly valuable. In this guide, we’ll explain what to look for, how to check your $5 bills, and what to do if you find a rare one. Let’s uncover the secrets of the 2017A $5 bill and see if you’re holding a fortune!
What Makes the 2017A $5 Bill So Valuable?
The 2017A $5 bill is grabbing attention because of a rare microprinting flaw that makes it a collector’s gem. Microprinting is a security feature on U.S. currency, consisting of tiny text that’s hard to read without magnification. A flaw in this microprinting, combined with the bill’s excellent condition, can turn an ordinary $5 note into a high-value item. Here’s why these bills are so sought-after:
- Rare Printing Error: A microprinting flaw, such as missing, blurry, or misplaced text, is extremely uncommon and drives up value.
- Uncirculated Condition: Bills that are crisp, with no folds or wear, fetch higher prices at auctions.
- Collector Demand: The growing hobby of currency collecting, known as numismatics, has increased interest in error notes, with some selling for tens of thousands.
- Limited Production: The 2017A series had specific print runs, and flawed bills are a tiny fraction of the total.
A 2017A $5 bill with this microprinting error reportedly sold for $48,000 in a recent auction, proving that everyday cash can hide incredible value.
Understanding Microprinting and Its Flaws
Microprinting is a security feature on U.S. dollar bills, where tiny text (often “USA5” or “The United States of America”) is printed in specific areas, like near the portrait or borders. It’s so small that you need a magnifying glass to see it clearly. A microprinting flaw occurs when this text is:
- Missing: The text is completely absent in areas where it should appear.
- Blurred: The tiny letters are smudged or unreadable.
- Misplaced: The text appears in the wrong spot or is distorted.
These errors are rare because the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing has strict quality controls, making flawed bills highly collectible.
Why Do Collectors Love Error Notes?
Collectors are fascinated by error notes because they’re unique pieces of history. A microprinting flaw is like a mistake in a masterpiece—it stands out and tells a story about the printing process. The 2017A $5 bill with this error is especially exciting because it was found in circulation, meaning anyone could stumble across one.
How to Spot a Valuable 2017A $5 Bill
Ready to check your wallet? Here’s a step-by-step guide to identify a 2017A $5 bill with a microprinting flaw:
Step 1: Check the Series Year
Look at the front of the $5 bill for the series year, usually printed near the bottom right. Confirm it says “Series 2017A.” This is the specific series known for the microprinting flaw that sold for $48,000.
Step 2: Inspect the Microprinting
You’ll need a magnifying glass or a smartphone camera with zoom to check for microprinting. Look in these areas:
- Around Lincoln’s Portrait: Tiny text like “USA5” or “The United States of America” may appear on the collar or background.
- Security Thread: A vertical strip embedded in the bill may have microprinted words.
- Borders: Check the edges of the bill for small text.
Look for flaws such as missing text, blurry letters, or text in the wrong spot. Compare with a regular $5 bill to spot differences.
What to Do If You Find a Rare 2017A $5 Bill
If you think you’ve found a valuable $5 bill, follow these steps to protect it and maximize its worth:
| Action | Description |
|---|---|
| Store It Safely | Place the bill in an acid-free plastic currency sleeve to prevent damage. |
| Avoid Cleaning | Cleaning or folding can ruin the bill’s value; keep it untouched. |
| Take Clear Photos | Capture high-quality images of both sides for documentation. |
| Get It Authenticated | Contact a professional grading service like PCGS or PMG to verify the error. |
| Find a Buyer | Sell through auction houses (Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers), dealers, or platforms like eBay. |
These steps ensure your bill stays in top condition and gets a fair market value.
Why Collectors Are Obsessed with Error Notes
Currency collecting is a growing hobby that combines history, art, and the thrill of discovery. Error notes like the 2017A $5 bill with a microprinting flaw are prized because they’re rare and unique. Each error tells a story about the printing process, making it a tangible piece of financial history. The fact that these bills are still in circulation adds to the excitement—anyone could find one in their change!
Recent auctions have fueled this frenzy, with a 2017A $5 bill fetching $48,000 due to its microprinting error and pristine condition. Other error notes, like those with missing serial numbers, can sell for $100 in circulated condition or much more if uncirculated.
Features That Make a 2017A $5 Bill Valuable
| Feature | Description | Potential Value |
|---|---|---|
| Microprinting Flaw | Missing, blurry, or misplaced tiny text | $10,000–$48,000 |
| Star Note | Serial number with a star (★) | $50–$1,000+ |
| Fancy Serial Number | Ladder (12345678), solid (11111111), etc. | $500–$50,000+ |
| Other Printing Errors | Misaligned text, double seals, ink smudges | $100–$10,000+ |
| Uncirculated Condition | Crisp, no folds or tears | 2–10x face value |
The History of the $5 Bill
The $5 bill has a rich history, featuring Abraham Lincoln since 1914. The 2017A series is part of the modern Federal Reserve Note design, which includes advanced security features like microprinting, security threads, and watermarks. These features were added to prevent counterfeiting, but errors like the microprinting flaw make some bills stand out. The 2017A series was printed in limited runs, and flawed bills are a tiny fraction, making them a collector’s dream.
How to Sell Your Rare $5 Bill
If you’ve found a 2017A $5 bill with a microprinting flaw or other rare feature, here’s how to sell it:
- Get It Graded: Professional grading services like PCGS or PMG will evaluate the bill’s condition and authenticity, increasing buyer trust.
- Choose a Platform: Auction houses like Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers specialize in rare currency and can fetch top dollar. Online marketplaces like eBay are also popular but require careful listing to avoid scams.
- Set a Fair Price: Research recent sales of similar bills to set a competitive price. For example, a 2017A $5 bill with a microprinting flaw sold for $48,000 in uncirculated condition.
- Work with Experts: Consult currency dealers or auction specialists for advice on maximizing value.
Conclusion
The 2017A $5 bill with a microprinting flaw is proof that treasures can hide in your everyday cash. A single error, like missing or blurry microprinting, can turn a humble $5 note into a $48,000 windfall. By carefully checking your bills for the 2017A series year, microprinting flaws, star notes, or fancy serial numbers, you could uncover a rare gem.
If you find one, protect it in a currency sleeve, get it authenticated, and explore selling options through trusted platforms. Start inspecting your $5 bills today—you might be just one bill away from a life-changing discovery!
FAQs About 2017A $5 Bills
What is a microprinting flaw on a 2017A $5 bill?
A microprinting flaw is when the tiny text on the bill (like “USA5” or “The United States of America”) is missing, blurry, or in the wrong spot. This error makes the bill rare and valuable.
How do I check for microprinting on a $5 bill?
Use a magnifying glass or smartphone camera to zoom in on areas like Lincoln’s portrait, Lewis collar, security thread, or borders. Look for tiny text that’s missing, blurry, or misplaced.
Are all 2017A $5 bills worth $48,000?
No, only those with specific errors like a microprinting flaw, star notes, or fancy serial numbers are valuable. Most 2017A $5 bills are worth $5 unless they have rare features.
Where can I sell a rare 2017A $5 bill?
Sell —
through reputable auction houses like Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers, currency dealers, or online platforms like eBay. Always have the bill authenticated by a grading service first.
What is a star note, and why is it valuable?
A star note is a replacement bill with a star (★) in the serial number, printed when a regular bill has an error. They’re rarer and can be worth more, especially with other unique features.
Can a circulated 2017A $5 bill still be valuable?
Yes, but circulated bills (with folds or wear) are worth less than uncirculated ones. For example, a bill with a missing serial number might sell for $100 if circulated but much more if pristine.