This $10 Bill Is Still Legal Tender: To most people, a $10 bill is just enough for lunch or a few groceries. But one specific $10 note, still technically legal tender, has the numismatic world buzzing — and it could be worth as much as $3 million to the right collector.
A Rare Piece of Paper with a Rich History
The bill in question is not just any ten-spot. It’s a 1928B $10 Gold Certificate, part of a short-lived and now incredibly rare series. These bills were originally backed by physical gold and prominently featured the words “Gold Certificate” across the top. What makes this specific note extraordinary is a printing error combined with its rarity — a one-of-a-kind misalignment during production that sets it apart from all others.
Only a handful of 1928B $10 Gold Certificates exist in any condition. But this specimen, known as the “Del Monte Note of Gold Certificates” due to a faint but visible fruit sticker accidentally embedded during printing, is the only one of its kind — a historical accident that turned into a multimillion-dollar treasure.
Still Spendable – But You’d Be Crazy to Use It
Though this bill is worth millions to collectors, it’s still technically legal tender. That means it could be used for a $10 purchase — though doing so would be like handing over a priceless painting for a cup of coffee.
“Under U.S. law, all currency ever issued by the federal government remains legal tender,” says numismatist and currency expert Lisa Thomason. “But anyone who actually spends this bill is making a $2,999,990 mistake.”
Why the High Value?
Several factors contribute to the estimated $3 million price tag:
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Extremely low surviving population: Most 1928B Gold Certificates were destroyed after the U.S. abandoned the gold standard in the 1930s.
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Unique error: The embedded sticker and printing flaw are well-documented and verified — a freak accident that enhances its desirability.
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Condition: The note remains in high-grade, near-uncirculated condition, which is crucial in the collectibles market.
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Historical context: Gold certificates represent a bygone era of U.S. monetary policy, increasing their appeal to both collectors and historians.
How to Spot a Valuable $10 Bill
While chances of finding this exact note are slim to none, you might still have valuable currency hiding in drawers or old boxes. Here’s what to look for:
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Pre-1934 bills: These often carry a premium, especially gold or silver certificates.
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Unusual serial numbers: Notes with low numbers, repeating digits, or “star notes” can be collectible.
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Printing errors: Misalignments, missing seals, or other production flaws add significant value.
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Condition: The cleaner and crisper, the better.
The Takeaway: Don’t Dismiss Old Bills
While most paper money is only worth face value, this story serves as a thrilling reminder: rare currency can be hiding in plain sight. That old $10 bill in your attic might just be the next million-dollar surprise.
Bottom line: Before you spend it, check it. History — and a fortune — could be in your wallet.
FAQ: This $10 Bill Is Still Legal Tender – And Could Be Worth $3 Million
Q1: What makes this $10 bill worth $3 million?
It’s a rare 1928B $10 Gold Certificate with a unique printing error — a sticker embedded during production — making it one of a kind.
Q2: Can I still spend this bill at a store?
Yes, it’s still legal tender. But spending it as $10 would be a huge mistake, as collectors value it at up to $3 million.
Q3: How do I know if my old $10 bill is valuable?
Look for gold or silver certificates, rare serial numbers, pre-1934 issues, and any printing errors. Have it appraised by a certified currency expert.