If you’re someone who casually sifts through change or stacks of bills, it’s time to look more closely at your $5 bills, especially the 2017A series. One particular printing flaw—a microprinting error—has turned this ordinary bill into a potential treasure worth up to $48,000 on the collectors’ market.
This article will walk you through everything you need to know to identify, verify, and potentially cash in on this rare banknote.
What Is the 2017A $5 Bill Microprinting Error?
Microprinting is a security feature that uses tiny, hard-to-read text on banknotes to prevent counterfeiting.
On a standard 2017A $5 bill, you can find microtext such as “USA FIVE” hidden in places like the border or near Lincoln’s portrait. The error occurs when this microprinting is misaligned, missing, or printed twice, creating a legitimate flaw during the production process at the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing.
Collectors and experts have flagged this particular misprint due to its rarity. Only a limited number of these flawed bills are estimated to have escaped quality control, making them highly desirable to collectors.
Why Is It Worth Up to $48,000?
In 2023 and 2024, auctions and private sales of these error bills have seen record-breaking bids, with some graded examples going for as much as $48,000 depending on condition, serial number, and clarity of the error.
Key value factors include:
- Error type clarity (how obvious the microprinting flaw is)
- Grading condition (on a 1–70 scale, higher is better)
- Serial number rarity (low numbers, star notes, or patterns like “00000001” boost value)
- Authentication by a third party (PCGS or PMG grading)
Key Details of the 2017A $5 Bill Microprinting Flaw
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Bill Series | 2017A |
| Error Type | Microprinting flaw (missing/misaligned/double text) |
| Value Range | $100 – $48,000 |
| Best Value Condition | Crisp Uncirculated, graded 65+ |
| Authentication Required | PCGS/PMG error certification |
| Market Demand | High among error note collectors |
| Known Quantities | Very limited; exact number unknown |
How to Identify the Error
Here’s a quick guide to spotting the microprinting flaw on your 2017A $5 bill:
- Use a magnifying glass or jeweler’s loupe to inspect the microprinted text areas:
- Look around Lincoln’s jacket collar
- Along the border design
- Near the security strip
- Compare with a standard 2017A $5 bill—look for missing, double, or smudged microtext.
- Look for clean, crisp condition with minimal folds—creases can lower the value significantly.
- Check for rare serial numbers or star notes, which can boost value even higher.
FAQs
How do I get my 2017A $5 bill appraised?
You can send it to currency grading services like PCGS or PMG. They will authenticate and provide a market value grade.
Can I find this error in circulation today?
Yes, although rare, some bills are still in circulation. Always check your change and cash withdrawals.
Is this error specific to one Federal Reserve Bank?
No, the microprinting flaw has been reported across multiple Federal Reserve district seals on the 2017A series.