The 2017 50 dollar bill, part of the U.S. currency series, has captured the interest of collectors and those curious about its potential value. At face value, this bill is worth exactly $50, but there are nuances to the currency that could make certain variants worth more than this nominal amount.
In this article, we will explore the specifics of the 2017 fifty dollar bill, its current worth, how to spot rare editions like star notes, and the potential for future value appreciation.
Overview Of The 2017 50 Dollar Bill
The 2017 fifty dollar bill is a Federal Reserve Note, officially designated as Series 2017A. It features several security and design elements intended to prevent counterfeiting. This bill, like other U.S. currency, was printed to maintain the integrity of the nation’s economy and currency system.
Its standard denominations remain legal tender for transactions, and it is accepted at face value.
The 50 dollar bill is printed on paper, with a unique blend of cotton and linen, giving it durability and distinct characteristics. The design incorporates a portrait of Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States, along with other security features such as a security thread and microprinting.
Despite these impressive design elements, the bill is relatively common, which means that unless it has a particular error or rarity, it will typically be worth no more than its face value.
The Value Of The 2017 $50 Bill
At the present time, the 2017 50 dollar bill is worth exactly $50, regardless of its condition. It is part of the standard currency issued by the U.S. government, and collectors have not yet given it significant premium value. However, this does not mean that the bill will always be worth only face value.
Over time, as more of these bills are taken out of circulation, some variants could appreciate in value, especially under certain circumstances.
For example, star notes—a rare variety of bills issued by the U.S. Treasury—are more likely to gain value. These bills are printed with a star symbol at the end of the serial number to replace notes that were damaged or misprinted during the production process.
Star notes are not only rarer but also more desirable for collectors due to their scarcity. If you happen to have a star note from the 2017 fifty dollar bill series in excellent, uncirculated condition, it could eventually fetch a higher price in the marketplace.
The 2017 Series: A Closer Look At The Features
The 2017 $50 bill is part of the larger Series 2017 Federal Reserve notes. The series includes several denominations, including the $50, $20, $10, and $5 bills. These bills, designed to enhance security and combat counterfeiting, were printed with updated features compared to earlier series.
A key element in these changes is the larger security thread embedded in the bills, which can be seen by holding the note to light.
Additionally, there are a few distinguishing features to the 2017 fifty dollar bill that collectors look for. One such feature is the portrait of Ulysses S. Grant, which is printed in a bold green hue.
This color, combined with intricate detailing, makes the bill not only an essential piece of currency but also a symbol of American history.
The bill also includes a watermark of Grant’s portrait visible when held to the light, adding another layer of security.
Error Notes: Potential Value Boosters
Another factor that can increase the value of the 2017 $50 bill is the possibility of errors during production. These error bills are rare and highly sought after by collectors. An error could involve misprints, incorrect serial numbers, or mistakes in the design or printing process.
While the likelihood of encountering an error note is slim, finding one could result in a significant increase in the bill’s value.
The U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing works diligently to ensure that such errors are minimal, but even small discrepancies can turn an otherwise ordinary bill into a collector’s item.
If you think you’ve come across a 50 dollar bill with an error, it’s best to consult an expert or get the bill appraised to determine its potential worth.
Star Notes and Their Collectibility
As mentioned earlier, star notes are a distinct type of 50 dollar bill that are often more valuable than standard notes. A star note is issued to replace a damaged bill and features a star symbol at the end of its serial number.
These notes are rarer because they are only issued when there is an issue during the printing process that renders a bill unfit for circulation.
A star note from the 2017 series is particularly interesting to collectors because of the relatively limited number of these notes in circulation.
While star notes are not necessarily rare compared to other bills in other denominations, a star note in uncirculated condition could see its value increase once it’s out of circulation.
Therefore, if you happen to possess a 2017 fifty dollar bill with a star symbol, it might be a good idea to hold onto it for future resale.
Variations in Printing: Different Equipment and Sheet Sizes
In addition to star notes, there have been reports of 2017 $50 bills printed using different types of equipment. For example, a collector, Nicholas Cheung, observed that some bills from the Series 2017A, particularly those from the Western Facility in Fort Worth, Texas, were printed using older 32-subject sheet presses, while others from the same series were printed using newer 50-subject presses.
This subtle difference in production could potentially affect the value of the bills. While there’s no official confirmation on this variation, it is something to keep in mind for those interested in collecting 2017 fifty dollar bills.
In any case, these differences might not significantly impact the value of the bill immediately, but they could potentially make certain notes more desirable to collectors in the future.
How To Identify A Real 2017 $50 Bill?
It’s essential to understand how to differentiate a real 50 dollar bill from counterfeit currency. To verify the authenticity of a 2017 fifty dollar bill, hold it up to the light. One of the primary security features is the security thread, which runs vertically to the right of Grant’s portrait.
The thread contains alternating text reading “USA 50” and small flag icons, making it visible from both sides of the bill.
Additionally, the bill features a watermark of Ulysses S. Grant’s portrait, visible when the bill is held up to the light.
Another distinguishing characteristic is the raised printing on the bill, which gives it a unique texture that can be felt when you run your fingers over the surface.
Conclusion
At the moment, the 2017 50 dollar bill holds no significant premium over its face value. However, there are still factors to consider that could impact its value in the future. If you come across a star note or discover an error with your 50 dollar bill, you might want to hold onto it for a potential increase in value.
Additionally, the possibility of variations in the printing process could make certain notes more collectible.
The 2017 fifty dollar bill will be worth $50 unless it has unique characteristics such as a star note or an error. Regardless of its current value, understanding the history, design, and potential for future value is essential for anyone interested in U.S. currency.
Collectors may find that certain bills from the 2017 series become more valuable as time passes, making it a fascinating area of interest for those involved in currency collection.