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The 2001 $5 STAR Federal Reserve Note graded UNC67 by CGA (Currency Grading and Authentication) is a superb high-grade modern replacement note that combines rarity, precision printing, and top-tier preservation. Issued during a transitional period in U.S. currency history, this note is a part of the last full series to feature the older small-head design and green-only color scheme before the introduction of modern security enhancements. The presence of a star in the serial number indicates that it was printed as a replacement for a defective note, and its exceptional grade of 67 signifies near-perfect condition with outstanding eye appeal.
The Series 2001 $5 Federal Reserve Notes were issued under the signatures of Treasury Secretary Paul H. O’Neill and Treasurer Rosario Marin. Printed by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, this series reflects the culmination of decades of traditional U.S. currency design before changes in layout and coloration were implemented in later years. Though produced in large numbers for general circulation, STAR notes like this were printed in significantly smaller quantities. They replaced damaged notes discovered during the printing process, making them more scarce and collectible than their standard serial number counterparts.
The obverse of the note features a detailed portrait of Abraham Lincoln, based on the 1864 photograph by Anthony Berger. The classic design includes the text “FEDERAL RESERVE NOTE” at the top, the U.S. Treasury seal to the right of the portrait, and a Federal Reserve District seal on the left. The serial number—distinguished by a trailing star (*)—is printed in green twice on the face of the note. In a UNC67-graded example, this entire layout remains flawless, with deeply inked and sharply registered printing, balanced margins, and no signs of folds, wear, or handling.
The reverse displays the Lincoln Memorial in crisp detail, framed by “THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “FIVE DOLLARS.” The statue of Lincoln is visible between the columns, and ornamental scrollwork enhances the traditional design. The clean, monochromatic green color scheme is a holdover from the original small-size note aesthetic, which had been in place since 1929. In UNC67 condition, the reverse engraving is fully preserved, with no ink bleeding, smudging, or paper waviness, and sharp delineation in all architectural features.
The CGA grade of UNC67 (Superb Gem Uncirculated) indicates a note with outstanding centering, original paper quality, and zero folds or handling marks. The “67” numeric grade is just one step below the highest regularly seen grade of 68, and only rarely do notes achieve a 69 or 70. This note exhibits well-centered margins, vibrant original ink, and paper that retains its full embossing, texture, and brightness. CGA’s encapsulation further assures authenticity and protects the note for long-term storage and display.
STAR notes like this are a favorite among small-size U.S. currency collectors, particularly when found in such pristine condition. Each Federal Reserve district produced star notes in limited runs, and the total number printed for each district varies widely. Some are relatively available, while others are much scarcer. Collectors often seek star notes to complete full series runs or to focus exclusively on replacement issues. While a 2001 $5 note in circulated condition may be easily found, a STAR replacement in UNC67 is far less common and represents the top of the condition spectrum for modern notes.
This series also holds significance for its timing: the 2001 issue was among the final traditional-style notes before the U.S. Treasury began introducing colorized and security-enhanced notes beginning with the $20 redesign in 2003. The $5 note itself would not receive major design updates until 2008, making the Series 2001 notes a last glimpse of a long-standing aesthetic tradition. Collectors of transitional currency, pre-color redesign types, and modern replacement notes all prize the 2001 STAR issues in higher grades for this reason.
Because of its STAR status and superior condition, this note holds significant collector appeal. The UNC67 grade assures that all aspects of the note—from ink saturation to edge sharpness to paper integrity—are of exceptional quality. It may exhibit nearly perfect centering with tiny variances allowed under grading standards but still qualifies as a Superb Gem due to its overall visual and technical excellence. CGA’s encapsulation in a tamper-evident holder ensures that the note retains both its grade and its collectible market value.
From an investment perspective, high-grade modern STAR notes are increasingly popular, especially as older series become harder to find in premium grades. With most $5 notes entering circulation and being heavily used, uncirculated STAR examples represent a small and diminishing subset. For collectors building a Federal Reserve STAR set, small-size high-grade type set, or focusing on 21st-century U.S. currency, this note is a standout example.
The Certified 2001 $5 STAR Federal Reserve Note graded UNC67 by CGA is a prime piece of modern numismatics. It combines low replacement print rarity, exceptional preservation, and historical relevance in one secure and visually striking package. As a Superb Gem Uncirculated note with the added desirability of a STAR serial number, it is ideal for collectors who appreciate the intersection of quality, scarcity, and legacy in American paper money.