Dollar Bill Frequently Asked Questions
Get straightforward answers to common US currency questions. Learn about portraits, security features, collector values, and authentication methods for every denomination.
Last reviewed on April 27, 2026.
Who is on the 50 dollar bill?
Ulysses S. Grant, 18th US President and Civil War general, appears on the $50 bill. The reverse features the US Capitol building. Current series include enhanced security features like color-shifting ink and a security thread visible under UV light.
Who is on the 10 dollar bill?
Alexander Hamilton, first Secretary of the Treasury and founding father, remains on the $10 bill in 2026. The US Treasury Building adorns the reverse. Hamilton is one of only two non-presidents on current US currency (along with Benjamin Franklin).
Who is on the $1,000 dollar bill?
Grover Cleveland, the only president to serve non-consecutive terms (22nd and 24th), appears on the $1,000 bill. Last printed in 1945, these notes now trade for $3,000-$30,000+ in 2026, depending on condition and series.
Is there a 500 dollar bill?
Yes, the $500 bill exists and features William McKinley, 25th US President. Though discontinued in 1969, it remains legal tender in 2026. Collectors value these notes at $1,500-$10,000+ based on condition, far exceeding face value.
How long is a dollar bill?
All modern US dollar bills measure exactly 6.14 inches long by 2.61 inches wide (156 mm × 66.3 mm). This standardization since 1929 allows for efficient processing in ATMs, vending machines, and counting equipment.
What is a 3 dollar bill?
The US has never issued a federal $3 bill, making "as fake as a three-dollar bill" a popular idiom for something fraudulent. While some states issued $3 notes before the Civil War, no federal version exists. Novelty $3 bills sold today are souvenirs, not legal tender.
What is a star note?
A star note is a Federal Reserve replacement note printed when a regular note is rejected during quality control. The serial number ends with a star symbol instead of a letter. Star notes are common, but specific short print runs can be scarce and command premiums. See our star note guide for how to read run lengths.
How do I read a dollar bill serial number?
Modern US serials follow the pattern: prefix letter (Federal Reserve district), series letter, eight digits, and a suffix character. The prefix letter ranges from A (Boston) to L (San Francisco). Our serial number guide includes the full district table and the "fancy" patterns collectors look for.
What do I do with a damaged dollar bill?
If the bill is worn but still clearly identifiable, your bank can swap it for a fresh note. If it's seriously mutilated — burned, crumbling, or fragmented — file a claim with the Bureau of Engraving and Printing's Mutilated Currency Division. Our mutilated currency guide walks through both routes and how to package a claim.
How do I start collecting US paper money?
Pick a focus first — one denomination, one series, one Federal Reserve district, or one type of fancy serial. Then buy archival storage, learn condition language, and start with inexpensive examples while you build experience. Our beginner's guide to collecting covers the first six months in more detail.