1935 Silver Certificates: Worth Up To $15k!

Silver certificates are a fascinating piece of American currency history that has captivated the interest of collectors and enthusiasts for decades. Among the most sought-after silver certificates are those issued in 1935, which are known for their intricate designs and unique characteristics.

These certificates were issued during the Great Depression, a time when the United States government sought to increase the money supply in circulation by backing paper currency with silver reserves.

The value of a 1935 $1 Silver Certificate can vary widely, ranging from a few dollars to as much as $15,000, depending on a number of factors. Collectors and appraisers consider the overall condition of the certificate, as well as any unique markings, errors, or misprints that may be present.

This article will provide an overview of the factors that can increase the value of a 1935 $1 Silver Certificate, as well as some notable examples that have fetched significant sums at auction. Whether you are a collector or simply curious about the world of silver certificates, read on to learn more about these fascinating artifacts of American currency history.

Value Factors

Factors such as errors, misprints, fancy serial numbers, unique markings, and overall condition can significantly affect the value of 1935 $1 Silver Certificates. The value of these certificates can range from $3 to $300, but some unique characteristics and features can make them worth more than $1,000 and even up to $15,000 for star notes that are in good condition.

One of the significant factors that can increase the value of 1935 $1 Silver Certificates is the presence of errors or misprints. These errors and misprints can make a note more valuable to collectors.

Additionally, fancy serial numbers or unique markings can also increase the value of a certificate. The overall condition of the certificate is also an essential factor in determining its worth. Higher grades such as MS-68 can fetch more than $300, while uncirculated packs of 100 notes can be worth more than $1,000.

Therefore, collectors should appraise their certificates before making any decision on selling or trading them.

Unique Characteristics

Distinctive features such as errors, misprints, and fancy serial numbers are among the factors that can significantly increase the value of 1935 $1 Silver Certificates.

Errors and misprints can range from minor to major, such as missing or doubled printing, or even the inclusion of unique markings. These errors and misprints are often rare and can make a 1935 $1 Silver Certificate worth more than its face value.

Fancy serial numbers, on the other hand, can include repeating numbers, ladder or binary patterns, or even low serial numbers. The more unique the serial number, the more valuable the certificate becomes.

Aside from errors, misprints, and fancy serial numbers, unique characteristics such as the type of paper and ink used, the color of the certificate, and the series it was issued from can also make a 1935 $1 Silver Certificate more valuable.

For example, silver certificates issued in 1878 can be highly valuable due to their rarity and historical significance. Additionally, the 1935 $1 Silver Certificates were issued in three different colors: blue, brown, and yellow, and were issued from series A through H.

Silver Certificates with grades above MS-64 are also highly valuable, as well as those issued in limited volumes or with star notes.

Overall, the value of a 1935 $1 Silver Certificate depends on a variety of factors, and appraising it is recommended before making any decision.

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Notable Examples

Notable examples of 1935 $1 Silver Certificates that have garnered significant value in the collector's market include the 1935-A Silver Certificate with HAWAII printed in black on both sides, and the 1935-A North Africa Silver Certificate.

The Hawaii Note was issued in response to the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, and only a small number were produced. The HAWAII print on the note was intended to deter counterfeiting, but it ended up making the note even more valuable to collectors. An uncirculated Hawaii Note can fetch more than $100, while a circulated one can still be worth up to $15.

The North Africa Silver Certificate was issued during World War II to facilitate military transactions in North Africa, which was then under Allied occupation. The note features a yellow seal and a yellow serial number to distinguish it from regular Silver Certificates. Today, a North Africa Silver Certificate in uncirculated condition can be worth up to $150, while a circulated note can fetch $25. Star notes for this series are particularly valuable since only 144,000 were made, and an uncirculated star note can be worth up to $1,000.

Other factors that can increase the value of 1935 $1 Silver Certificates include errors, misprints, fancy serial numbers, and unique markings. Appraising a note before making any decision is recommended.

Series and Sets

The 1935 $1 Silver Certificates were issued in eight series from A through H, with each series containing millions of notes. Each series has its own unique characteristics, such as differences in the signatures of the Treasury officials who signed the notes, as well as variations in the design of the eagle on the back of the note.

Collectors often seek out complete sets of all eight series, as well as sets with matching serial numbers or star notes. In addition to the regular series, there were also special sets and packs of 1935 $1 Silver Certificates that were issued.

For example, there were sets of notes with R and S marks that were given out to employees of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. These sets can be worth up to $458 in good condition. There were also uncirculated packs of 100 notes issued, which can be worth more than $1,000.

Collectors may also look for sets or packs with consecutive serial numbers, which can increase their value.

Tips for Appraising

When appraising a 1935 $1 Silver Certificate, it is important to consider several factors that can affect the note's value. The note's overall condition is a critical factor, as well as any unique markings and serial numbers. High-grade 1935 $1 Silver Certificates, such as those with an MS-68 rating, can be worth more than $300, while star notes in good condition can fetch up to $15,000.

Fancy serial numbers, such as low or repeating numbers, can also increase a note's value significantly. In addition to these factors, collectors should also look for errors and misprints on the note. For instance, the 1935-A Silver Certificate with HAWAII printed in black on both sides of the note is highly sought after by collectors and can be worth more than $100 in uncirculated condition.

Similarly, the 1935-A North Africa Silver Certificate with a star note can be worth up to $1,000 due to its rarity. Overall, collectors should perform a thorough appraisal of any 1935 $1 Silver Certificate they come across to determine its true value in the market.