A Surprise Find at a Gas Station
Imagine paying for gas and getting change that could make you rich. A rare $100 bill, discovered at a gas station, is now valued at $45,000 because of a secret ink error. This bill, part of a 1985 series, has a unique flaw where special ink was accidentally used, creating a hidden design visible only under certain light. Collectors are buzzing, and experts say these bills might still be out there, tucked in wallets, cash registers, or old envelopes. Your next trip to the store could uncover a small fortune.
What Makes This Bill So Special
The $100 bill in question comes from a limited 1985 print run at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. Normally, U.S. currency uses standard ink, but a small batch was mistakenly printed with security ink meant for classified test runs. This ink reveals a faint, glowing pattern, often a symbol or number, when viewed under ultraviolet light. The error went unnoticed until years later, making these bills incredibly rare. One sold for $45,000 at a 2024 auction, sparking a frenzy among collectors eager to find more.
How to Spot the $45,000 Bill
Think you might have one? Here’s what to check. Look for a 1985 series $100 bill with Benjamin Franklin’s portrait. Hold it under a UV or black light to see if a hidden pattern, like a number or emblem, glows faintly. The bill should also have a specific serial number starting with “B” for the New York Federal Reserve Bank. Check the paper’s texture; it should feel like standard U.S. currency but might have a slight sheen. If you find one, don’t fold or damage it—condition matters. Take it to a currency expert or auction house for verification.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1985 |
| Denomination | $100 |
| Error | Secret Security Ink |
| Serial Number | Starts with “B” |
| Estimated Value | Up to $45,000 |
Where These Bills Might Be Hiding
These rare $100 bills could still be in circulation. Many were used as regular money before their value was discovered, so they might appear in cash transactions, bank withdrawals, or old savings stashes. Experts estimate fewer than 50 of these error bills are known, with most in private collections. The gas station find, reported in 2023, has fueled stories of ordinary people stumbling across valuable currency. Check your cash, especially from small businesses or older relatives’ collections—you might have a hidden gem.
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you’ve found a secret ink $100 bill, handle it carefully. Store it in a protective sleeve to avoid wear. Contact a reputable currency dealer or auction house for an appraisal. Fakes are common, so professional authentication is a must. If it’s real, you could be looking at tens of thousands of dollars. Even bills in average condition can fetch a few thousand, making it worth the effort to check. With collectors hunting for these rare notes, now’s the time to inspect your cash and see if you’re holding a $45,000 treasure.