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The 1976 $2 STAR Federal Reserve Note from the Richmond district in Crisp Uncirculated (CU) condition is a notable and increasingly popular collectible that merges modern historical significance with rarity due to its STAR designation. Issued to mark the U.S. Bicentennial, the 1976 $2 note revived a long-dormant denomination and introduced a redesigned reverse to commemorate the 200th anniversary of American independence. While regular issues are relatively common, STAR notes—used as replacements for misprinted or damaged notes—are scarcer and often highly sought after by collectors, especially when preserved in pristine, CU condition and from specific Federal Reserve Banks like Richmond, which are less frequently encountered in top grades.
The obverse of the 1976 $2 Federal Reserve Note retains the familiar portrait of Thomas Jefferson, third President of the United States, centered within a classical frame. Originally based on a painting by Gilbert Stuart and adapted for currency by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP), Jefferson’s profile is flanked by his name beneath and the legal tender statement above. The top of the note reads “FEDERAL RESERVE NOTE,” while the left side contains a black Treasury seal encircled by the issuing district designation—in this case, “E” for Richmond, Virginia. The serial number, which is the most distinct feature in this case, includes a STAR at the end, indicating the note is a replacement issued in place of one destroyed during production.
One of the defining features of the 1976 $2 note is its reverse design, which features an elaborate engraving of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, based on John Trumbull’s iconic painting housed in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda. This intricate scene includes 42 of the 56 signers, artistically grouped around Thomas Jefferson as he presents the document. The heading “THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and denomination “TWO DOLLARS” frame the top and bottom of the scene, respectively, while the denomination is also presented in numerals in each corner. This reverse was introduced specifically for the Bicentennial and replaced the previous image of Jefferson’s Monticello estate. It is widely regarded as one of the most artistic and symbolic scenes ever placed on American currency.
The 1976 $2 notes were issued by all twelve Federal Reserve Banks, each indicated by a corresponding letter and district name on the face of the note. The Richmond district, designated by the letter “E,” is one of the less common banks when it comes to STAR replacement notes, especially in higher grades like CU. While millions of 1976 $2 notes were printed in total, the number of STAR notes was significantly smaller, as only a limited quantity was needed to replace defective notes. These replacements were inserted into packs without altering the serial number sequence—hence the need for the STAR symbol, which denotes that the number is not duplicated elsewhere.
Printed on a cotton-linen blend paper with embedded security fibers, the note measures 6.14 x 2.61 inches (156 x 66 mm), standard for modern U.S. currency. The paper contains red and blue fibers to deter counterfeiting, and the inks used are durable and resistant to fading. In Crisp Uncirculated condition, the note should be free of folds, creases, stains, or handling marks. Corners must be razor sharp, the paper fully crisp, and the ink bold and fresh. The STAR should be clearly visible in the serial number, and the print quality of the detailed Trumbull scene on the reverse should be sharp and unmarred by wear or ink distortion. Collectors highly value notes that are not only uncirculated but also well-centered and evenly printed.
Though millions of 1976 $2 bills were saved as souvenirs and collector items—many of which remain in high grade—STAR notes were not as commonly hoarded, making CU examples increasingly scarce. The Richmond district in particular saw a lower output of STAR notes compared to other districts like New York or Chicago, further enhancing its desirability. Many surviving STAR notes have seen circulation or were stored poorly, resulting in folds or toning that disqualify them from CU status. As a result, fully Crisp Uncirculated Richmond STAR notes are among the more challenging and appealing finds for those assembling district sets or focusing on STAR replacement issues.
Market values for 1976 $2 STAR Federal Reserve Notes vary based on district, grade, and collector demand. A Richmond (E) STAR note in CU condition typically commands a premium over face value, often ranging between $25 and $50, though particularly well-centered examples or those with appealing serial numbers can fetch higher. The note’s condition is key—any bends, corner dings, or paper discoloration will significantly impact its market appeal. Certified examples from grading services like PMG or PCGS Banknote, especially those graded CU 64 or higher, can command $75 to $150 depending on the population data and eye appeal.
The historical significance of the 1976 $2 note lies in its celebration of the United States Bicentennial. Though the denomination had been discontinued for general circulation in 1966, it was revived in 1976 for the symbolic and practical purpose of highlighting national heritage and reducing printing costs by encouraging the use of a less frequently utilized denomination. The inclusion of the Declaration of Independence scene ties the note directly to the founding of the nation, offering collectors a tangible connection to America’s revolutionary roots. STAR notes from this series further elevate that significance by embodying production rarity within a widely recognized commemorative issue.
From a broader collecting perspective, the 1976 $2 STAR notes fit into multiple popular themes—such as replacement note collections, district sets, and Bicentennial memorabilia. Some collectors aim to complete full sets of 1976 STAR notes from all twelve districts, a challenging endeavor made more complex by the relatively low survival rate of certain districts like Richmond in CU grades. For newer collectors, the 1976 $2 STAR also offers an affordable yet historically rich entry point into paper currency collecting, blending modernity with a deep reverence for American history and its visual representation in currency art.
In conclusion, the 1976 $2 STAR Federal Reserve Note from the Richmond district in Crisp Uncirculated condition stands as a rare and symbolic piece of modern U.S. currency. Combining the artistry of its Trumbull reverse, the historical narrative of America’s founding, and the scarcity implied by the STAR replacement status, this note remains an attractive target for collectors at all levels. As more notes become absorbed into private collections and CU examples dwindle, the long-term value and appreciation of Richmond STAR notes—particularly when preserved in high condition—will likely continue to grow among numismatists and Bicentennial enthusiasts alike.