-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 19108
Checkout
The 1935C $1 STAR Silver Certificate in About Uncirculated (AU) condition is a scarce and desirable example of mid-20th century U.S. paper currency that combines high-grade preservation with the relative rarity of STAR replacement notes. Issued during the post-Depression and early World War II era, the 1935C series represents one of the later issues of small-size silver certificates, continuing the design tradition initiated in 1935 while implementing slight modifications and updates to plate and signature combinations. The STAR note designation—marked by a star symbol in the serial number—identifies this bill as a replacement note, printed to substitute for a defective regular note during the production process. Because STAR notes were issued in much smaller quantities than standard issues, especially in high grades like AU, they are actively pursued by collectors.
The obverse of the 1935C $1 STAR Silver Certificate features a centered portrait of George Washington, based on the famous Gilbert Stuart painting. This design remained consistent across all 1935-series $1 silver certificates, with only minor adjustments between subseries. Above the portrait is the statement “Silver Certificate,” and below is the pledge: “This certifies that there is on deposit in the Treasury of the United States of America One Dollar in silver payable to the bearer on demand.” In AU condition, this face design retains full crispness and sharpness, with bold printing and strong ink contrast. The portrait and surrounding lettering remain fully intact, while any wear is limited to light handling or faint corner tip bends, with no folds through the center or disruption of the paper’s surface.
One of the defining features of this note is the serial number that ends with a blue star (★) instead of a letter, identifying it as a replacement note. The blue seal and serial numbers indicate its status as a silver certificate, and the blue star is printed in the same color ink as the serial numbers, adding both symmetry and rarity to the overall appearance. In AU grade, these serials are sharp and unmarred, free of ink smears or mechanical defects. Collectors appreciate such STAR notes for their relative scarcity—only a small fraction of each series and district's production was designated for replacement, and even fewer of those survive in such well-preserved condition.
The reverse of the 1935C Silver Certificate features the classic small-size “ONE” back design, with large block letters in the center flanked by ornamental scrollwork. This design remained unchanged throughout all 1935 subseries and is one of the most recognized back designs in U.S. currency history. It includes inscriptions such as “THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DOLLAR,” rendered in strong, stylized lettering. The green ink remains vibrant in AU examples, with only the faintest evidence of handling or aging. The clarity of the scrollwork and the uniformity of ink saturation underscore the note’s excellent preservation.
The 1935C series was printed with the signature combination of Treasurer Ivy Baker Priest and Treasury Secretary George M. Humphrey, whose names appear in fine script near the lower margin. While the exact number of STAR notes printed for the 1935C subseries is not definitively known due to the lack of comprehensive BEP release data for individual STAR runs, it is well established that STAR notes were printed in far fewer quantities than regular notes. For the 1935C issue, this scarcity is further amplified in upper-grade examples. STAR notes were produced at multiple printing facilities, and some district combinations or plate numbers can be especially difficult to locate in AU or higher grades.
In About Uncirculated condition, the note exhibits only minimal signs of circulation—typically light corner handling or a single soft fold that does not break the paper fibers or produce significant creasing. The paper remains crisp and retains its original brightness and snap, with full color and texture. Edges are generally sharp and clean, and there is no soiling, graffiti, or significant damage. Such AU notes fall just short of Uncirculated status but are often indistinguishable from uncirculated examples without close scrutiny. Because the note has never been fully folded, its structural integrity remains excellent, making it a top-tier example among circulated STAR notes.
The 1935C STAR notes, especially in high grades, are valued by collectors who focus on silver certificates, STAR note sets, or high-grade small-size currency. Many enthusiasts seek to complete full sets of STAR notes from each 1935 subseries (A through H), and the 1935C STAR is an important piece in that journey. Since many STAR notes saw heavy circulation and were often discarded or redeemed, those that survive in AU condition or better are relatively scarce. As such, they command strong premiums in the collector market, particularly when housed in archival-quality holders or professionally graded by third-party services such as PMG or PCGS.
In the marketplace, the 1935C $1 STAR Silver Certificate in AU condition occupies a desirable position between affordability and top-end rarity. It offers the visual appeal and preservation of an uncirculated note without the often significant cost jump associated with GEM CU examples. For collectors seeking a strong representative piece from the 1935 STAR series, the AU grade delivers crisp eye appeal, complete design integrity, and a modest premium—all in one attractive package. When paired with other STAR notes or displayed individually, it reflects both historical resonance and the collector’s attention to condition and rarity.
Historically, silver certificates like the 1935C were issued in response to legislation that required the U.S. Treasury to maintain a reserve of silver to back currency. Though they were once redeemable for physical silver coins or bullion, this practice ended in the 1960s, and they are now valued primarily for their numismatic interest. Despite their lack of redeemability, these notes remain legal tender, although their collector value far exceeds face value, especially for STAR notes in premium grades. The STAR note's backstory as a replacement for a damaged or flawed bill adds a layer of intrigue and appeal to an already collectible series.
In summary, the 1935C $1 STAR Silver Certificate in About Uncirculated condition represents an ideal fusion of rarity, preservation, and historical charm. With its distinct STAR serial number, bold blue seal and printing, and crisp paper quality, this note is an exemplary specimen for collectors of small-size U.S. currency. As a near-perfect survivor of the silver-backed currency era, it offers both visual satisfaction and investment-grade potential, making it a treasured addition to any serious collection of American paper money.