US Paper Currency & Banknotes
Collect America's paper money — large size notes, silver certificates, gold certificates, national bank notes, Federal Reserve notes, and fancy serial numbers.
10 parts · Free to read
Introduction to US Paper Money Collecting
The fascinating world of US paper currency — why collectors are drawn to banknotes, the major types of US paper money, and how to begin collecting.
Large Size Notes: History & Major Types
The beautiful oversized bills of pre-1929 America — Legal Tender Notes, the "Educational Series," and why large-size notes are prized by collectors.
Silver Certificates: History & Collecting Guide
Paper money backed by silver — the history of silver certificates from 1878 to 1964, key dates, and why the 1896 Educational Notes are legendary.
Gold Certificates: The Rarest US Paper Currency
Notes redeemable for gold — the fascinating history of gold certificates, the 1933 recall, surviving examples, and why they remain highly collectible.
National Bank Notes: Local History on Paper
Paper money issued by thousands of local banks — how the National Banking System worked, collecting by state or town, and finding your hometown's notes.
Federal Reserve Notes: Modern Paper Money
The notes in your wallet — how Federal Reserve Notes work, district letters, series dates, modern design changes, and what makes certain FRNs collectible.
Fancy Serial Numbers & Star Notes
Collectible serial number patterns — solids, ladders, radars, repeaters, low numbers, star replacement notes, and what premium each type commands.
Paper Money Grading: PMG, PCGS Banknote & Standards
How banknotes are graded — the 70-point scale for paper money, PMG vs PCGS Currency, handling marks, folds, and why grading matters for value.
Storing & Preserving Paper Currency
Protecting banknotes from deterioration — currency sleeves, Mylar holders, humidity control, and archival storage methods that prevent damage.
Buying & Selling Paper Money at Shows
Finding paper money at coin shows — dealers who specialize in currency, evaluating condition under show lighting, and getting fair prices as buyer or seller.
Ready to Find Your Next Show?
Browse hundreds of upcoming coin shows across every state, with dates, venues, and contact details.