Star Notes

             Star notes, what are they?  Well, they’re popular among collectors, that’s one thing.  But why?  They’re  essentially replacement notes, and not too many are printed (compared to normal notes).  These notes have a  star either at the prefix or suffix of the serial number (depending if it’s older or newer) instead of another letter.   This is because the BEP does not want to print a note with the same serial number twice, so instead a star is put  to designate that it’s a replacement.  Although they’re scarcer than regular notes, they typically will not command  a premium unless the note is in a high grade condition, or there were less produced (typically anything less than  640,000).  Here’s where you can find information regarding how many were printed: 

    http://www.mycurrencycollection.com/reference/stars/
    http://www.uspapermoney.info/serials/

            Star notes didn’t start until 1910.  Do not be confused however, as notes printed at this time would have  had an earlier series date!  (such as 1899).  Large size star notes will have a hollow center, other large size  notes with a full star on them are not star notes, but rather the star is the prefix or suffix – before they started using  letters.  Before 1910, the BEP (Bureau of Engraving and Printing) would actually print replacement notes with the  same exact serial number.  Take note that there are small size notes that have a solid star, typically from series  1928 and 1934.

Older star note (star at prefix)