From Lincoln to Jackson: Which US Rare Currency Can Make You Rich?

Collecting vintage US banknotes has become a serious investment game. Some five-dollar bills sitting in dusty collections are worth exponentially more than their face value—with certain pieces commanding prices in the five-figure range.

The Market Dynamics

The value of rare $5 bills depends on two critical factors: scarcity and condition. A pristine specimen from the earliest circulation years commands premium prices, while even 20th-century variants can surprise collectors with four-figure valuations. The rarity factor intensifies as you go back in time, making 1800s issues the crown jewels of any collection.

The Top Performers

The 1861 $5 Demand Notes – The Gold Standard

These were America’s first federally-circulated notes after the Continental Currency era. A specimen from the American Bank Note Company using their proprietary steel plate process achieved $38,400 at auction—solidifying its position as one of the most prized five-dollar notes ever to exist. The design features Alexander Hamilton’s portrait alongside symbolic imagery of freedom.

1869 Rainbow Notes – Mid-Range Winners

Redesigned with Andrew Jackson’s likeness, these 1869 Legal Tender bills earned their “Rainbow Notes” nickname through vibrant multi-colored printing. While an average circulated example fetches around $400, uncirculated variants have reached $1,400—a compelling entry point for novice collectors diving into US currency.

1914 Horseblankets – The Forgotten Giants

Named for their oversized dimensions, these 1914 Large-Size Federal Reserve Notes represent an underrated segment in collectibles. Very fine specimens trade hands for roughly $196, making them accessible for those building collections without astronomical budgets.

1934 Series – The Replacement Note Premium

This year marked the shift to smaller-sized silver certificates aligned with $1 and $10 denominations. The Treasury seal relocation and multiple variants—especially replacement “star” notes—created a tiered market:

• 1934 A Hawaii $5 (Brown Seal): Up to $6,000
• 1934 A North Africa $5 (Yellow Seal): Up to $1,850
• 1934 A–D Blue Seal $5: Up to $425

The Hawaii and North Africa variants command premium prices due to limited production runs tied to specific wartime printing needs.

Why Collectors Care

The trajectory of US rare bills reflects broader trends in alternative investments. As condition and provenance verification become more sophisticated, even 20th-century notes gain appreciation. The oldest specimens—particularly 1861 demand notes—remain the ultimate trophy for serious collectors, but the 1934 series offers realistic pathways to significant returns for mid-level enthusiasts.