Sometimes errors occur during the printing of U.S. paper money. A misprint happens when a note comes out with unusual features due to mistakes in the production process. These error notes are highly prized by collectors for their rarity and uniqueness. Common examples include upside-down seals, misaligned prints, and foreign objects printed into the design.
Common Types of $20 Bill Errors
Not every misprint has high value, but certain types of errors are more sought after by collectors. Some of the most valuable include:
Upside-Down Seal
This occurs when the green Treasury seal and serial numbers are printed upside-down relative to the portrait. Known as the inverted third printing, these bills are rare and highly collectible.
Double Denomination
A double denomination error happens when the front of the bill shows $20, but the back shows a different value, like $10. These are extremely unusual and can fetch high prices at auction.
Retained Obstruction
If a foreign object such as a sticker or paper scrap is accidentally printed into the note, it creates a one-of-a-kind bill. Some of these errors have sold for hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Offset or Misalignment
This type of error occurs when images, seals, or borders are shifted, ghosted, or cut off-center. High-grade examples are especially valued by collectors.
Market Values of $20 Misprints
The value of a misprinted $20 bill depends on rarity, condition, and collector demand. Here’s a general overview:
| Error Type | Identification | Typical Value Range | Record Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upside-Down Seal | Seal/serials upside-down | $500 – $5,000 | Claimed sales up to $95,000 |
| Double Denomination | Front $20, back $10 | $10,000 – $50,000+ | Over $55,000 |
| Retained Obstruction | Sticker or foreign object | $10,000 – $100,000+ | Famous “Del Monte” note sold for $396,000 |
| Offset/Misalignment | Ghost image or off-center print | $100 – $2,000 | High-grade examples at $5,000+ |
Why Condition Matters
Collectors pay the most for uncirculated bills that are crisp, clean, and free from folds or damage. Even a rare error bill that has been heavily circulated will generally sell for less. Professional grading companies like PMG or PCGS Banknote can certify the condition of a note, increasing its appeal to buyers.
How to Check Your $20 Bill
If you think you might have a rare misprint, here are steps to examine it:
- Look at the seal and serial numbers to see if they are upside-down.
- Check both sides for mismatched denominations.
- Inspect for foreign objects printed into the note.
- Examine alignment for off-center designs or ghost images.
- Review serial numbers for rare patterns like ladders (12345678) or repeaters (45454545).
What to Do if You Have a Rare $20 Bill
If you discover a potential misprint:
- Do not spend the note.
- Handle it carefully to avoid damage.
- Get it professionally graded.
- Sell through reputable auction houses or currency dealers to maximize value.
Are All Misprints Worth $95,000?
No. The $95,000 figure often applies to pristine upside-down seal notes, but most misprinted $20 bills sell for hundreds to thousands of dollars. Only extraordinary errors, such as double denominations or retained obstruction notes, reach five- or six-figure prices.
Lessons from Rare $20 Bills
Rare misprinted bills show that treasures can be hiding in everyday items. Even if a note is not worth tens of thousands, it can still provide insight into history, printing processes, and collectible value. Paying attention to unusual details in your pocket change may occasionally lead to remarkable discoveries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Which $20 misprint is the most valuable?
The “Del Monte” retained obstruction note is among the highest-valued, selling for nearly $400,000.
Q2: Can banks accept misprinted bills?
Yes, they are legal tender. However, collectors recommend saving them for grading and potential resale.
Q3: Where can I sell a rare $20 bill?
Reputable auction houses, online collector marketplaces, and trusted currency dealers are the best options for selling rare bills.
