9 fun facts about the 2 dollar bill

The $2 bill is less common than other U.S. bills, but it holds a special place in American history. From its unique design to the mystery surrounding it, there's much to learn and appreciate about this unusual denomination. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about the $2 bill that will make you see it in a whole new light.

1. When did we start printing 2 dollar bills?

Believe it or not, the $2 bill has been around since 1776, when it was first issued during the American Revolution. While other denominations have come and gone, the $2 bill has remained in circulation, making it the oldest denomination in our history.

2. Who's on a 2 dollar bill?

The front of the $2 bill features a portrait of Thomas Jefferson, a founding father and the third U.S. President. The iconic painting "The Signing of the Declaration of Independence" by John Trumbull graces the back. Interestingly, Thomas Jefferson hasn't always been the face of the $2 bill; it used to feature other prominent figures like Alexander Hamilton.

3. What popular myth surrounds its disappearance?

There's a common misconception that the $2 bill is no longer in circulation or has been discontinued by the U.S. government. While it’s not as widely used, the $2 bill is still legal tender and is in circulation if you keep an eye out. In fact, some folks even make a point to request $2 bills from banks and stores — they make cool rewards for kids.

4. How much is a 2 dollar bill worth?

The value of a $2 bill depends on its condition and rarity. A regular $2 bill in good condition is only worth $2. But rare or special-edition $2 bills can be worth much more to collectors. In 2017, one $2 bill sold for $1.2 million at auction. 

5. Does it have a serial number?

Unlike other bills that have a standard eight-digit serial number, the $2 bill has seven digits followed by an asterisk. This unique feature makes it easy to spot among other bills. The $2 bill's serial number is just one of many security features that make it difficult to counterfeit. Like other dollar bills, $2 bills have a security thread, watermarks, and color-shifting ink.

6. Wasn't it once discontinued?

In 1966, the U.S. Treasury announced they would stop printing $2 bills for lack of demand. But they were reintroduced in 1976 as part of the country’s bicentennial celebration and have been in circulation ever since.

7. Is it considered lucky?

In many cultures, the number two is associated with good luck and prosperity. Some people carry $2 bills in their wallets or purses for good fortune. Some also believe the $2 bill is lucky because it's considered a "rare" denomination (in reality, it’s just less common), while others say it’s lucky because of its association with Thomas Jefferson and the Declaration of Independence.

8. Does it have any hidden messages?

If you look closely at the back of a $2 bill, you can see some seemingly random symbols scattered throughout the painting. The symbols actually spell out "USA" in Morse code. This hidden message was not intentional but a happy coincidence discovered by an artist who noticed the pattern while designing the back of the bill.

9. What is the mystery of the red seal?

Some older $2 bills have a red treasury seal instead of the standard blue seal. These bills are often mistakenly thought to be rare or valuable, but their color is simply a printing error. The red seal on the $2 bill was likely caused by an excess of ink during the printing process. Since the bills were still legal tender, they were distributed anyway and are now part of American currency history. 

The $2 bill is a fascinating piece of U.S. currency. Its rich history, unique design, and intriguing mysteries make it a fun gem in the world of money.

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