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The 2001 $1 STAR Federal Reserve Note in Crisp Uncirculated (CU) condition represents a fascinating intersection of modern currency production and traditional design, embodying the Bureau of Engraving and Printing’s (BEP) continued commitment to precision and quality. Star notes are issued to replace defective currency caught during the printing process. Rather than reprinting the same serial number, replacement notes are assigned a new serial ending in a star symbol (*) to signify their special status. As a result of their lower production volume and unique role in the note-issuing system, star notes are actively sought by collectors, particularly those preserved in high grades like CU.
The obverse of the 2001 $1 STAR note is a continuation of the classic small-size $1 Federal Reserve Note design first implemented in 1963. It features a finely engraved portrait of George Washington at the center, adapted from Gilbert Stuart’s original oil painting. Flanking the portrait are essential elements of federal and bank authority: to the left is the black seal of the issuing Federal Reserve Bank, and to the right, the green seal of the Department of the Treasury. Printed above Washington is the label “FEDERAL RESERVE NOTE,” while below him appear “THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DOLLAR.” The note's serial numbers, appearing in green in the upper right and lower left, end in a five-pointed star, denoting it as a replacement note and distinguishing it from regular issues.
The reverse of the note features the enduring imagery of the Great Seal of the United States. On the left is the unfinished pyramid with the all-seeing Eye of Providence, topped with the Latin inscription “ANNUIT COEPTIS” and grounded by “NOVUS ORDO SECLORUM.” To the right is the heraldic eagle clutching arrows in one talon and an olive branch in the other, symbolizing the balance of military readiness and peace. Above the eagle is a radiant cluster of thirteen stars, representing the original colonies. “IN GOD WE TRUST” is prominently placed above the eagle’s head. These iconic designs remain unchanged on modern $1 notes, preserving their historical significance and instantly recognizable character.
Unique to the 2001 series is its pairing of the signatures of Rosario Marin, Treasurer of the United States, and Paul H. O’Neill, Secretary of the Treasury. This pairing identifies the notes as early issues during the George W. Bush administration and is exclusive to this series. Marin, notably, was the first Mexican-born U.S. Treasurer, and her term coincided with a renewed emphasis on fiscal transparency and economic conservatism. The 2001 series marks a point of continuity between the late Clinton-era currency and the early 21st-century fiscal landscape, with no major redesigns yet introduced to the $1 denomination.
The 2001 $1 STAR notes were printed at both the Washington, D.C. and Fort Worth, Texas BEP facilities. Fort Worth–printed notes are identified by the presence of a small “FW” printed next to the lower right face plate number. The two-printing-location dynamic adds another layer of collectibility to the series, as some collectors seek both facility variants for each Federal Reserve Bank. These notes were produced for multiple districts, and mintage quantities varied greatly from one bank to another. Districts such as New York (B) and Chicago (G) typically saw higher star note runs, while others like Minneapolis (I) and Dallas (K) had fewer replacements, leading to increased rarity for those issues.
In Crisp Uncirculated condition, a 2001 $1 STAR note should exhibit flawless paper integrity, with no folds, creases, smudges, or other signs of handling. The corners should be sharp and unbent, the paper should be firm and bright, and the print should retain its full texture from the original intaglio process. CU notes often exhibit a visible embossing of the printing plates, and well-centered margins with strong eye appeal are particularly desirable. Collectors often encapsulate such notes in protective holders and may submit them for third-party grading by PMG or PCGS, where a CU designation of 64 or higher often commands premium interest—especially with “EPQ” or “PPQ” labels indicating superior paper quality.
The relative scarcity and value of any 2001 $1 STAR note depend on its district, printing location, and total mintage. Notes from more common districts in CU condition, such as those from Richmond (E) or San Francisco (L), generally trade in the $10 to $20 range. However, examples from scarcer districts or those with small print runs—particularly from Minneapolis (I) or Atlanta (F)—can reach values from $25 to over $75. Collectors also place a premium on notes with interesting or unusual serial numbers, including radars, repeaters, ladders, and low serials (e.g., 00000037*), all of which heighten the appeal and market value.
The 2001 series stands out in part because it was the final $1 note series to use the traditional design before the issuance of the 2003 and 2003A series, which featured different signature combinations and minor design tweaks. Though security upgrades were implemented for higher denominations around this time, the $1 note remained unchanged due to its low risk of counterfeiting. The longevity of this design adds to its collectibility, as modern star notes like those from 2001 serve as both a familiar face and a relic of a bygone printing era—prior to the full integration of modern anti-counterfeit measures such as color shifting ink and watermarks.
For collectors focused on small-size U.S. currency, particularly star notes, the 2001 $1 STAR represents a key addition. Many enthusiasts attempt to compile a full set of $1 star notes from every district for each series year, and the 2001 series—being relatively short-lived and tied to a unique political period—is a crucial puzzle piece. The fact that it was produced at both BEP facilities, with wide variation in print runs, adds to its allure and collecting challenge. Graded examples from scarce districts often show low census totals, further emphasizing the series’ appeal.
In today’s market, star note collectors, particularly those focused on high-grade modern issues, have shown increased interest in the 2001 series. It represents a balance of accessibility and scarcity: common enough to collect without extreme cost, but scarce enough to offer a satisfying chase—especially in pristine CU condition. Certified examples with high numerical grades (65 and above) and premium designations remain in steady demand and often appreciate over time.
In conclusion, the 2001 $1 STAR Federal Reserve Note in Crisp Uncirculated condition is a compelling addition to any modern paper currency collection. With its distinctive star designation, enduring design, historically significant signature pairing, and production at both BEP facilities, it bridges the gap between tradition and modernity in U.S. banknote production. Collectors value it for its relative rarity, clean aesthetics, and potential for appreciation, especially when part of a broader star note or Federal Reserve Bank-themed collection. As both a replacement note and a symbol of a transitional era, the 2001 STAR note is a classic representation of the enduring legacy of American paper money.