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Art & Craft, DIY ideas and Tutorials – Craftbuds
Art & Craft, DIY ideas and Tutorials – Craftbuds
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  • Collectibles
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The 1953 2-Dollar Bill Value, Seal, Series & Design

  • Bob Bair
  • Posted: October 16, 2023 - Updated at: October 19, 2023
1953 2 Dollar Bill
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Within the rich history of American currency, the 1953 2-dollar bill stands as a symbol of the nation’s storied heritage. Unlike the commonplace Federal Reserve Notes seen today, the 1953 $2 bill, adorned with its distinctive red Treasury seal and serial numbers, harks back to a bygone era. It possesses a unique charm that captivates collectors and enthusiasts alike. Delve with us into the intricate realm of this vintage treasure, exploring its design, seal, and series variations and unraveling the mysteries that enhance its value.

Table of Contents

  • 1 The 1953 2-Dollar Bill Design & Seal
    • 1.1 Obverse Side
    • 1.2 Reverse Side
    • 1.3 1953 2-Dollar Bill Red Seal
  • 2 1953 2-Dollar Bill Series
    • 2.1 1953 2-Dollar Bill Series
    • 2.2 1953 A 2 Dollar Bill Series
    • 2.3 1953 B 2 Dollar Bill Series
    • 2.4 1953 C 2 Dollar Bill Series
  • 3 The 1953 2-Dollar Bill Value
    • 3.1 Star Note
    • 3.2 Signatures
    • 3.3 Serial Numbers
    • 3.4 The 1953 2-Dollar Bill Error List
    • 3.5 Misalignment or Off-Center Printing
    • 3.6 Ink Smears
    • 3.7 Overprints
    • 3.8 Mismatched Serial Numbers
    • 3.9 Missing Elements
    • 3.10 Folds
  • 4 Conclusion
    • 4.1 Sources& References

The 1953 2-Dollar Bill Design & Seal

As a legal tender note, the $2 bill comes in two sizes:

  • Large notes printed between 1862 and 1928 measure 18.85 by 7.94 cm (7.422 by 3.125 inches).
  • Small bills printed between 1928 and 1966 measure 15.6mm by 6.6mm (6.14962 x 2.60937 inches).

Obverse Side

The $2 Bills (Legal Tender Notes) were first issued by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing in 1862, and their design has dramatically changed over the years. At first, the bills had the portrait of Alexander Hamilton on the obverse. However, that was changed to the image of Thomas Jefferson, engraved by Charles K. Burt in 1869. It’s the image you’ll find on today’s $2 bills. The name “JEFFERSON” is inscribed beneath the portrait, while “FEDERAL RESERVE NOTE” is above the president’s image.

Thomas Jefferson’s image graces this vintage note, giving it the nickname – the Tom.

A red Treasury seal is printed on the bill’s right side. Just above the seal is the serial number, also published in red. Each 1953 $2 note also comes with a different combination of signatures on the obverse, depending on the series.

For example, the 1953 series bears two signatures: one by G.M. Humphrey on the right and another by Ivy Baker Priest on the left. The 1953A series combines Robert B. Anderson and Priest’s signatures.

As for the 1953B series, both signatures changed. Elizabeth Rudel Smith’s signature replaced Priest’s, and C. Douglas Dillon’s replaced Anderson’s.

The 1953C series saw a change in signature from Rudel Smith’s to Kathryn O’Hay Granahan’s. It appears alongside C. Douglas Dillon’s, who continued to serve as the Secretary of the Treasury.

At the bottom of the $2 bill is the phrase “THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA WILL PAY TO THE BEARER ON DEMAND” followed by the denomination “TWO DOLLARS” printed in large fonts.

Reverse Side

Source: Commons

On the reverse side, the bill features an elegant depiction of Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s iconic plantation home in Charlottesville, Virginia. It was designed by an engraver called Joachim Clarence Benzing.

A banner with the country name “THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” appears above the image. The denomination “TWO DOLLARS” and the word “TWO” each also appear four times on the bill. Each $2 bill has the digit “2” on the note’s right and left-hand sides.

1953 2-Dollar Bill Red Seal

One of the defining features of the 1953 $2 bill is its red Treasury seal and serial numbers. This distinctive red hue signifies its classification as a United States Note, differentiating it from today’s modern Federal Reserve Notes.

1953 2-Dollar Bill Series

Source: Gov Mint

The 1953 $2 bill exists in four series, each marked by subtle design changes and unique signatures of the U.S. Treasurer and Secretary of the Treasury. And 79,920,000 1953 red seal $2 bills, across the four series, were printed in Washington DC. Here’s a brief overview of each series, including their printing and design differences:

1953 2-Dollar Bill Series

1953 $2 bill Series 1953
Source: eBay

The 1953 series is the inaugural edition of the $2 bill, marking the beginning of a new era in American currency design. This series proudly bears the signatures of Ivy Baker Priest, the U.S. Treasurer, and George M. Humphrey, the Secretary of the Treasury. With its classic design featuring Thomas Jefferson on the obverse and Monticello on the reverse, the 1953 series exudes timeless elegance.

1953 A 2 Dollar Bill Series

1953 A 2 Dollar Bill Series
Source: eBay

In the evolution of the $2 bill, the 1953A series emerges as a noteworthy progression. Featuring the signatures of Ivy Baker Priest and Robert B. Anderson, this series introduces subtle design modifications, adding to the intrigue for collectors.

While the core design elements remain consistent, meticulous collectors can discern subtle variations, a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing.

The 1953A series, like its predecessor, saw significant production, ensuring a widespread presence across the United States.

1953 B 2 Dollar Bill Series

1953 B 2 Dollar Bill Series
Source: Discountbloc

With the 1953B series, a signature shift brings fresh nuances to the $2 bill. Elizabeth Rudel Smith takes the reins as the U.S. Treasurer, joining hands with C. Douglas Dillon, the Secretary of the Treasury. This change in leadership marks a distinctive feature of this series.

Collectors keen on detecting minute design divergences will find the 1953B series to be a fascinating study. The precision and artistry of the engravers come to the fore in these subtle details.

1953 C 2 Dollar Bill Series

1953 C 2 Dollar Bill Series
Source: Discountbloc

The 1953C series, the final iteration of the $2 bill in this historical lineup, showcases the signatures of Kathryn O’Hay Granahan, the U.S. Treasurer, and C. Douglas Dillon, the Secretary of the Treasury. This series represents the culmination of the $2 bill’s journey in the 1950s.

The 1953C series, while similar to its predecessors, embodies the culmination of the engravers’ expertise. This series’s finesse and attention to detail make it a true gem for collectors.

The 1953 2-Dollar Bill Value

The value of a 1953 $2 bill ranges based on its condition, grading, and unique features. Most Bills are worth $2 to $3, with uncirculated ones fetching up to $12 and star notes up to $90. However, bills with specific errors, rare serial numbers, or those graded 68 can be valued at several hundred dollars, with some even reaching or exceeding $1,000.

  • Basic Values:
    • Non-star bills (Fine/Extremely Fine): $2 to $3
    • Uncirculated non-star bills: $12
    • Uncirculated star bills: $90
  • Grading Values:
    • Non-star bill (Grade 65): $15
    • Non-star bill (Grade 67): $150
    • Star note (Grade 65): $80
    • Star note (Grade 67): $250
    • Star note (Grade 68, highest grade): $600
  • Star Notes (based on condition and grading):
    • Very Fine: $15
    • Uncirculated MS63: $95 or more
  • Error & Unique Features Values:
    • Misalignment: Starting at $3, varies with condition/misalignment degree
    • Ink Smears: $75 to $119.99 or higher
    • Mismatched Serial Numbers: Sold for $1,000 to $1,500 (as of April 2022)
    • Missing Elements & Folds: Several hundred dollars, depending on rarity/condition
  • Serial Numbers: A consecutive run of 20-star bills from 1953 sold for $1,840 in 2007.

The value of any $2 bill from 1953 varies depending on its condition, grading, and other unique features. A non-star 1953 2-dollar bill series is worth $2 to $3 in fine or extremely fine condition. The values rise significantly for those in uncirculated conditions. An uncirculated bill without a star is worth $12, and an uncirculated star bill can fetch about $90.

In terms of grading, a note graded 65 and above is considered to be in the finest condition. A non-star note graded 65 can be worth $15, while one graded 67 goes for $150.

Star notes graded 65 go for about $80, while those graded 67 can fetch $250. The finest quality $ 2-star notes from 1953 to ever exist are graded 68, and each is worth about $600.

Star Note

Star notes, characterized by the asterisk (*) preceding or following the serial number, represent replacement notes crafted to replace flawed or damaged bills. Their rarity makes them highly coveted among collectors, often commanding substantial value in the numismatic market. 1953 $ 2-star bills in very fine condition sell for around $15. Expect between $95 or more for an uncirculated MS63 specimen.

Signatures

The varying combinations of Treasurer and Secretary of the Treasury signatures across different series create a captivating landscape for collectors. Certain signature pairings are rarer, eliciting heightened interest and value among collectors.

Serial Numbers

The allure of unique or low serial numbers is undeniable. Bills with sequential numbers, palindromes (such as 12344321), or intriguing patterns captivate collectors’ imaginations, amplifying their desirability and, consequently, their market value. A pristine, uncirculated consecutive run of 20-star $2 bills from 1953 sold for $1,840 at auction in 2007.

The 1953 2-Dollar Bill Error List

Beyond the nuances of design and series, the 1953 $2 bill’s appeal is further enriched by the possibility of errors, each anomaly narrating a unique story of the printing process. These errors include:

Misalignment or Off-Center Printing

1953 2 Dollar BVill Misalignment or Off-Center Printing Error
Source: eBay

It occurs when a part of the design is cut off due to misalignment during printing, creating a visually distinct, albeit erroneous, bill. Such a note has a starting value of $3, though this will vary depending on its condition and the magnitude of the misalignment.

Ink Smears

Excess ink can lead to smudged or blotchy designs, adding an intriguing visual element to the bill. A 1953 $2 red seal bill with an inking error is worth $75 to $119.99 or higher on eBay.

Overprints

Elements like the Treasury seal or serial numbers may be printed atop each other, resulting in a distinctive layered effect.

Mismatched Serial Numbers

Bills with non-matching serial numbers are rare printing anomalies. They capture the attention of discerning collectors seeking the extraordinary. One specimen was sold for around $ 1,000 to $ 1,500 in April 2022 at a Stack’s Bowers auction.

Missing Elements

In cases of ink shortages or printing malfunctions, portions of the design, including seals or serial numbers, might be absent, rendering the bill exceptionally unique.

Folds

Accidental folds during printing can create blank areas where the fold occurred, adding a touch of character to the bill. Each specimen can be worth several hundred depending on its condition and rarity.

Related: 1976 2 Dollar Bill Value – History, Value, Errors

Conclusion

The 1953 $2 bill serves as a captivating bridge between America’s historical legacy and its present-day narrative. Its distinctive red seal, detailed design, series alterations, and potential printing quirks intrigue collectors and narrate a chapter of the nation’s evolving story. As we venture into the realm of vintage currency, it’s vital to appreciate that the true significance of these bills surpasses their face value. They encapsulate moments from America’s diverse history, acting as tangible reminders of our nation’s rich past.

Sources& References

  • Federal Reserve
  • Bureau of Engraving and Printing
  • Treasury Pursuits
  • U.S. Department of Treasury
  • Old Currency Values
  • Gov Mint
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Bob Bair

Bob Bair grew up in Wisconsin, where he fell in love with coin collecting as a result of the paper route he operated as a boy. He joined the American Numismatic Association (www.money.org) as Life Member #4138 in 1981 and became a rare coin dealer in 1987, in addition to pursuing his educational career as a teacher, coach, and school principal.

After retiring as a school principal in 2010, Bob has been a numismatic presenter at seven different American Numismatic Association National Conventions, has published over a dozen articles in The Numismatist, the A. N. A.’s monthly publication, and has received the A. N. A.’s Heath Literary Award Bronze Medal, and the Denver Coin Club’s Al Muckelbust Award for the advancement of numismatics.

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