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How to Collect Paper Money Star Notes

United States star notes are dollar bills that look exactly like all other currency -- with the exception of a small star added to the right of the 8-digit serial number on the top right-hand side of the bill. Star notes are created to replace other bills that are damaged during printing after the serial numbers have already been added to the notes. This ensures that the counting of the bills remains accurate. Less than 1 percent of all United States bills are star notes.

Instructions

- 1
  Learn as much as you can about United States star notes before you begin collecting them. The more you know about star notes, the more successful you will be as a collector. Purchase or borrow books from your local library about American currency, its historical and current market value, and resources for enthusiasts.
- 2
  Learn about the grading system for United States currency. This refers to the condition of the money and ranges from Gem Uncirculated (GEM), which is a flawless item, to Good (G), which indicates that the note may be dirty, stained or written upon.
- 3
  Subscribe to coin and currency publications for collectors and hobbyists. These magazines and newsletters track information on the industry and offer tips, suggestions and references.
- 4
  Visit local coin and currency conventions and trade shows. Talk with other enthusiasts about star notes and get references for local dealers who will help you in identifying and purchasing authentic star notes.
- 5
  Ask antique dealers for information about, references for or even star notes that they themselves may own. Building a local community base of dealers and collectors will help you find and build a collection of United States star notes.
- 6
  Look at online sources for United States star notes. Be very wary when purchasing United States star notes online, as fraudulent or counterfeit currency abounds online. Ask the seller for many detailed pictures from different angles, personal selling references, and a personal guarantee of the note's authenticity.

Other Collecting