In the realm of currency collecting, certain misprinted banknotes have become highly sought after due to their rarity and unique errors. Among these, specific $20 bills have garnered significant attention, with some fetching prices well above their face value.
This article presents five notable misprinted $20 bills that could potentially make you thousands.
1. The “Del Monte” Note
Error Type: Retained Obstruction
One of the most famous misprinted $20 bills is the “Del Monte” note. During the printing process, a Del Monte banana sticker adhered to the bill, resulting in part of the seal and serial numbers being printed over it. This unique error has made it a coveted piece among collectors.
Approximate Value: In January 2021, this note was auctioned for $396,000, setting a record for an error banknote.
2. Mismatched Serial Numbers
Error Type: Serial Number Mismatch
Each U.S. banknote features two serial numbers that should be identical. However, due to printing errors, some bills have mismatched serial numbers, significantly increasing their value to collectors.
Approximate Value: Such errors can fetch over $500, depending on the bill’s condition and rarity.
3. Double Denomination Error
Error Type: Double Denomination
A double denomination error occurs when a bill is printed with features of two different denominations. For instance, a $20 bill may have the obverse (front) of a $20 and the reverse (back) of a $10 bill.
Approximate Value: These rare errors can be worth up to $55,000, especially if the bill is in excellent condition.
4. Misalignment Errors
Error Type: Printing Misalignment
Misalignment errors occur when the printing plates are not properly aligned, resulting in off-center designs or elements printed in incorrect positions.
Approximate Value: Depending on the severity of the misalignment, such bills can range from $1,000 to $25,000.
5. Overprint on Back Error
Error Type: Overprint Misplacement
In some cases, the overprint (which includes the Treasury seal and serial numbers) appears on the back of the bill instead of the front.
Approximate Value: Bills with this error have been known to sell for $300 to $500, depending on their condition.
Summary Table of Valuable Misprinted $20 Bills
| Error Type | Description | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|
| Retained Obstruction | Foreign object (e.g., sticker) printed over during production | Up to $396,000 |
| Serial Number Mismatch | Differing serial numbers on the same bill | Over $500 |
| Double Denomination | Features of two different denominations on one bill | Up to $55,000 |
| Printing Misalignment | Off-center or incorrectly positioned design elements | $1,000 – $25,000 |
| Overprint Misplacement | Treasury seal and serial numbers printed on the back | $300 – $500 |
Note: Values are approximate and can vary based on the bill’s condition, rarity, and market demand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How can I tell if my $20 bill has a valuable misprint?
Look for anomalies such as mismatched serial numbers, misaligned prints, overprints on the back, or features of another denomination. Consulting a currency error guide or seeking professional appraisal can provide clarity.
2. Are all misprinted $20 bills valuable?
Not necessarily. The value depends on the rarity, type of error, and the bill’s condition. Common minor misprints may not significantly increase the bill’s value.
Whether it’s the infamous “Del Monte” note worth nearly $400,000 or a simple serial number mismatch fetching hundreds, these errors demonstrate how a small printing mistake can turn everyday currency into a windfall.