When considering the value of a currency note, especially one as iconic as the 1981 $100 bill, there are several factors at play. While most bills from the 1981 series are worth little more than their face value, a few variations, particularly those that are uncirculated or are classified as star notes, can command impressive sums in the marketplace.
In this article, we will explore the 1981 100 dollar bill value, the factors that contribute to its worth, and the different series, including the 1981 and 1981A series, as well as error notes and grading methods.
Introduction To The 1981 100 Dollar Bill
The 1981 100 dollar bill features the well-known portrait of Benjamin Franklin. These bills are part of the Federal Reserve note series that was issued by the U.S. Treasury.
They represent one of the later designs of U.S. currency before major changes to security features and aesthetics were implemented in the 1990s.
While the 100 dollar bill is a popular denomination, it doesn’t always offer a substantial premium unless certain criteria are met, such as being in uncirculated condition or having a unique variety such as a star note or an error.
Series Breakdown: 1981 and 1981A
The two main series of 100 dollar bills that were issued in 1981 are the 1981 series and the 1981A series. The two series are nearly identical, with the primary difference being a change in the Treasury Secretary’s signature.
The bills were printed in large quantities, and for the most part, standard circulated notes from these series are not considered rare or highly valuable.
For the average collector or seller, the worth of a 1981 100 dollar bill in circulated condition is typically just the face value of the note—$100.
However, the value increases significantly when the bill is uncirculated or if it is a special version of the bill, such as a star note.
Key Factors Affecting The 1981 100 Dollar Bill Value
Several factors can influence the value of a 100 dollar bill, especially the 1981 series. These factors include:
- Condition: As with most currency, the better the condition, the higher the value. A bill in excellent, uncirculated condition is generally worth more than one that has been heavily used and shows signs of wear.
- Star Notes: A star note is a replacement note issued by the U.S. Treasury to replace a damaged or defective note. These notes are much rarer and more valuable than standard bills. For example, a 1981 100 dollar star note can sell for much more than the standard bill.
- Grading: The value of the bill is also heavily influenced by its grade, which is determined based on its physical condition. A note in Mint State (MS) condition, or one that is uncirculated, will generally command a much higher price than a bill that shows heavy signs of wear.
- Errors: Occasionally, errors during the printing process lead to notes that are highly sought after by collectors. These errors can be subtle, such as a misprinted serial number or an issue with the paper. Such errors make the 100 dollar bill worth considerably more than its face value.
The Value Of The 1981 100 Dollar Bill
In general, most 1981 series 100 dollar bills will not fetch a significant premium unless they are in perfect, uncirculated condition. An uncirculated bill from the 1981 series or the 1981A series is typically worth between $150 and $175, depending on its condition.
However, bills in poor condition, such as those with folds, tears, or stains, are generally only worth their face value of $100.
For a star note, the situation is different. These replacement bills are produced in much smaller quantities and are considered more collectible.
For instance, a 1981 series 100 dollar star note in excellent condition can be worth around $850.
If the note is uncirculated and graded MS 63, its value could rise to approximately $1,500.
Similarly, 1981A series 100 dollar star notes typically sell for $350 in extremely fine condition, and up to $600 if uncirculated.
Understanding Star Notes
A star note is a replacement bill issued by the U.S. Treasury in case a bill is damaged during the printing process. These notes are relatively rare because they are produced in limited quantities. A key feature of star notes is the star symbol that appears at the end of the serial number.
This star symbol is a clear indicator that the note is a replacement, setting it apart from regular bills.
To check whether you have a star note, simply look at the serial number. If you see a star symbol at the end of the serial number, then the bill is a star note, and its value will likely be higher than that of a standard bill.
Star notes from the 1981 100 dollar bill series are highly sought after by collectors, making them significantly more valuable.
How To Identify A Real 1981 100 Dollar Bill
Given the popularity of the 100 dollar bill denomination, it’s important to ensure that the bill you possess is authentic.
Here are some methods to verify the authenticity of your 1981 100 dollar bill:
- Security Thread: One of the most prominent security features of the bill is the embedded security thread. Hold the note up to the light, and you should see a vertical thread with the text “USA 100” that glows pink under ultraviolet light.
- Watermark: The 1981 100 dollar bill also features a faint watermark that can be seen when the note is held up to the light. This watermark is an image of Benjamin Franklin, visible from both sides of the note.
- Color-Shifting Ink: The number “100” on the front of the bill is printed with color-shifting ink, which changes color when you tilt the note.
If these security features are present and in good condition, your bill is most likely authentic. If you’re ever in doubt, it’s best to have a professional dealer or a currency expert inspect the note.
The Grading System and Its Impact on Value
The value of a 1981 100 dollar bill is also determined by its grade, which refers to its physical condition. The grading system for U.S. currency is generally as follows:
- P (Poor): The bill is heavily damaged and almost unreadable.
- F (Fine): The bill shows some wear, such as creases and folds, but is still readable.
- VF (Very Fine): The bill is in good condition with only minor signs of circulation.
- EF (Extremely Fine): The bill shows minimal wear, and the note is in excellent condition.
- MS (Mint State): The bill is in perfect condition, showing no signs of circulation. It has original crispness and no visible flaws.
- UNC (Uncirculated): The bill is in pristine condition, showing no signs of wear or handling.
- STAR: A star note, as mentioned earlier, is a rare and valuable replacement note.
The grade of a bill greatly affects its value. For example, an uncirculated 1981A 100 dollar bill with a grade of MS 63 can be worth around $875.
A bill that has been heavily circulated and shows signs of wear will typically be worth much less, possibly just the face value of $100.
Conclusion
The 1981 100 dollar bill value depends on several factors, including its condition. For standard bills, the value is typically close to face value, around $100 for circulated notes. However, in uncirculated or mint condition, these bills can fetch $150-$175.
Star notes, in particular, can be highly valuable, with 1981 series star notes reaching values as high as $1,500 for uncirculated notes. If you’re looking to get a higher price for your one hundred dollar bill, ensure that the note is in excellent condition, and consider getting it graded by a professional.
Collectors often seek out these rarer notes, making them worth more than their face value. Understanding the different aspects of 100 dollar bill worth, such as series, condition, star notes, and grading, is essential to accurately determining how much your bill is worth in today’s market.