Low number banknotes are the very first notes off the printing press in any production run — notes with serials close to 00000001. There's something deeply satisfying about holding note number 47 out of the millions in a run. Collectors have prized these historically significant first-run notes for decades.
The threshold: Notes below 00001000 (serial 1-999) are considered low number notes. Ultra-low notes below 100 command the strongest premiums. 00000001 is the most coveted of all.
Low Number Value Guide
| Serial Range | $1 Note | $100 Note |
|---|---|---|
| 00000001 | $500 - $1,500+ | $2,000 - $5,000+ |
| 00000002 - 00000009 | $200 - $600 | $800 - $2,500 |
| 00000010 - 00000099 | $80 - $250 | $300 - $1,000 |
| 00000100 - 00000999 | $30 - $100 | $100 - $400 |
Low Numbers + Other Patterns
A low number note that is also a radar, binary, or star note is a multi-pattern find. Use our free checker to see if your low number also qualifies for any other fancy patterns.
Low NumberFancy SerialFirst RunRare Banknotes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a low number banknote?
A low number banknote has a serial number below 00001000 — among the very first notes printed in any production run.
What is the most valuable low number?
00000001 is the most prized — the very first note printed. These rarely surface and can sell for thousands of dollars.
How much is a low number note worth?
Low number notes typically sell for $30 to $400 above face value. The lower the number, the higher the premium.
Do low numbers apply to all currencies?
Yes. Low serial numbers are collectible across USD, GBP, AUD, EUR and most currencies. The premium is strongest for USD notes.