If you’re a collector of U.S. currency or simply curious about the 1985 10 dollar bill, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll explore the history, specifications, value, star notes, how to identify genuine 1985 $10 bills, and more.
Considering holding onto your bills for their potential value or just want to know how to spot a fake, this guide covers all the essential details.
Overview Of The 1985 $10 Bill
The 1985 $10 bill is a part of a series of Federal Reserve Notes issued by the United States. These notes are an important part of the U.S. currency system and feature a variety of design elements meant to prevent counterfeiting while also representing historical figures and landmarks.
The 1985 $10 bill features Alexander Hamilton, the first Secretary of the Treasury, who has appeared on the $10 note since the late 1800s. The bill was printed in 1985, during a period when the U.S. currency was undergoing various design changes.
However, the 1985 series marks a significant milestone because it was the last series before the major redesigns that started with the 1996 $100 bill and subsequent issues.
Key Specifications of the 1985 $10 Bill
Before we dive into value and collector interest, let’s take a closer look at the specifications of the 1985 $10 bill:
- Denomination: $10.00 USD
- Type: Federal Reserve Note
- Series: 1985
- Signature Varieties: The 1985 $10 bill comes in two signature varieties—one signed by Treasury Secretary James A. Baker III and one signed by U.S. Treasurer Mary Ellen Withrow.
The 1985 $10 bill retains many of the same security features as earlier designs, but it also included some updates to make the bill more difficult to counterfeit. The bill was printed using the same traditional methods as earlier notes but included modern anti-counterfeiting elements such as a security thread and watermarks.
How Much Is A 1985 $10 Bill Worth?
For most people, the primary question about the 1985 $10 bill revolves around its value. Most 1985 $10 bills are not worth much more than their face value, especially if they are in circulated condition.
However, certain factors can make these bills more valuable, such as their condition and the presence of certain rare variants like star notes.
Circulated Bills
For the average collector, a 1985 $10 bill in circulated condition is worth approximately its face value—$10. These bills may have slight creases, folds, or discoloration from circulation, but they generally do not carry a significant premium beyond their nominal value.
Uncirculated Bills
Bills in uncirculated or pristine condition are worth more. An uncirculated 1985 $10 bill, graded MS 63 (choice uncirculated), can fetch a price of around $30 to $35.
These bills are free from folds, creases, or other marks that would indicate they have been used in everyday transactions. They typically retain their original crispness and sharp edges.
Star Notes
One of the most significant factors influencing the value of the 1985 $10 bill is the presence of a star note. Star notes are replacement bills printed by the U.S. Federal Reserve when there are printing errors or other issues with the regular notes.
Because star notes are rarer than regular bills, they are more valuable.
A 1985 $10 star note in extremely fine condition can be worth $20 to $25, depending on its serial number and condition. A star note that is uncirculated and graded MS 63 can reach values of $50 to $70, and sometimes even more.
These notes are generally in high demand among collectors because they are rarer than regular bills, making them more sought after.
Additionally, star notes from the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta tend to be even more valuable due to their rarity. These notes have become highly desirable among serious currency collectors.
The Grading System: What Determines Value?
The value of a 1985 $10 bill, like most collectibles, depends on its condition. Currency is graded using a specific system that evaluates its appearance, wear, and overall quality.
Here’s a breakdown of how grading works and what it means for your bill’s value:
Extremely Fine (EF)
A bill that falls under the “extremely fine” category shows small signs of wear, such as a couple of small folds or creases, but remains in overall excellent condition. The bill will still have its original crispness, and there will be no tears, stains, or discoloration.
The edges of the bill may be slightly rounded, but the note still looks almost as good as new. A bill in this condition typically commands a price above its face value.
Uncirculated (MS 63)
An “uncirculated” bill is one that has never been used in circulation. It retains its original, crisp texture, and there are no folds or creases present. If the bill has been graded as MS 63 (choice uncirculated), it will likely have no issues like discoloration or misalignment.
The edges and corners will remain sharp, and the overall appearance will be almost perfect.
Uncirculated bills generally sell for a significant premium above their face value.
How To Identify A Genuine 1985 $10 Bill
With counterfeit currency becoming more sophisticated, it is crucial to know how to authenticate a 1985 $10 bill. The U.S. Treasury Department has implemented several security features to help people differentiate between genuine and counterfeit bills.
Security Thread
A genuine 1985 $10 bill has a thin, embedded security thread on the right side of the portrait of Alexander Hamilton. This thread is visible when held up to the light. It will have the words “USA” and “TEN” printed on it in an alternating pattern. When viewed under UV light, the thread will glow orange.
Watermark
The watermark on a genuine 1985 $10 bill is located to the right of Hamilton’s portrait. When held up to light, you should be able to see a faint, but clear, image of Alexander Hamilton. This watermark matches the portrait on the bill itself.
Raised Printing
Feel the bill with your fingers—genuine U.S. currency has raised printing, meaning the ink on certain parts of the bill, such as Hamilton’s portrait and the serial numbers, will feel slightly raised to the touch.
Color-Shifting Ink
Tilt the bill and observe the numeral **“10”** in the lower right corner. A genuine 1985 $10 bill features color-shifting ink, meaning that the number will appear to change from copper to green as the bill is tilted.
Serial Number
Check the serial number for accuracy. It should be in the correct font, spacing, and size. The serial number on the bill should match other security features, and the serial number should be consistent with the series year (1985 in this case).
Conclusion
While most 1985 $10 bills will not earn you much more than their face value, they remain an important part of U.S. currency history. If you’re lucky enough to have a star note, especially one from the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta or an uncirculated bill in top condition, you could have a valuable collectible on your hands.
Collectors will always be interested in rare and well-preserved examples of currency from past series, and the 1985 $10 bill is no exception. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or simply learn more about this specific note, understanding its value, features, and security measures is essential for anyone interested in U.S. currency collecting.
Remember: if you ever come across a 1985 $10 bill and wonder whether it’s real or worth more than face value, check its condition, consider whether it’s a star note, and examine the security features to make sure you have the genuine article. Happy collecting!