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The 2009 $1 STAR Federal Reserve Note in Crisp Uncirculated (CU) condition is a fascinating and collectible piece of modern American paper currency that offers insight into the operational intricacies of the Federal Reserve System. Star notes are special replacements issued to maintain the integrity of serial number sequences during the production process. These notes are distinguishable by the presence of a star symbol (*) at the end of their serial number and are generally printed in smaller quantities than standard notes, making them desirable to both casual and advanced collectors. The 2009 series represents one of the later issues of small-size $1 bills bearing the familiar design of the Great Seal of the United States and the portrait of George Washington.
Federal Reserve Notes serve as the primary form of paper currency in the United States and are issued by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. The $1 denomination remains the most widely circulated note, valued not only for everyday transactions but also as a foundational entry point for numismatists. The Series 2009 notes were printed beginning in late 2009 and into subsequent years, continuing the design traditions of earlier issues while incorporating updated printing technologies and slight changes in signatures. For Series 2009, the signatures of Treasury Secretary Timothy F. Geithner and Treasurer Rosa Gumataotao Rios appear prominently on the lower portion of the bill’s face.
The obverse of the note features a well-known and enduring portrait of George Washington, the first President of the United States. This image, originally engraved by Charles Burt based on Gilbert Stuart’s famous portrait, has appeared on $1 notes since 1929 and is among the most recognized depictions in American currency. The design is completed by ornate framing devices, a green Treasury seal, black Federal Reserve identifiers, and the distinctive serial number ending in a star. The combination of serial font, placement, and the green and black inks creates an aesthetically balanced and instantly recognizable note that has remained largely unchanged for decades.
The reverse of the 2009 $1 STAR note bears the classic image of the Great Seal of the United States. On the left is the pyramid with the Eye of Providence, symbolizing strength and divine guidance, accompanied by the Latin phrases "Annuit Coeptis" (He has favored our undertakings) and "Novus Ordo Seclorum" (A new order of the ages). On the right is the obverse of the Great Seal, with a heraldic eagle clutching arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing war and peace. The ribbon in the eagle's beak reads "E Pluribus Unum," a motto meaning "Out of many, one," referring to the unity of the states.
The term “STAR note” originates from the practice used by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) to replace notes with printing errors. Since each note must have a unique serial number, any misprinted sheet is replaced with one bearing a star at the end of the serial number to indicate its status as a substitute. These replacements are printed in separate runs and usually in smaller quantities, adding to their scarcity. Star notes are especially appealing to collectors when found in high grades, unusual serial blocks, or from specific Federal Reserve districts known for low print volumes.
The 2009 $1 STAR note was printed at both the Fort Worth, Texas and Washington, D.C. facilities of the BEP. The Federal Reserve district letter—ranging from A to L—identifies the issuing bank, from Boston (A) to San Francisco (L). Each note also includes the corresponding district number in both the serial number and the Federal Reserve seal to the left of Washington’s portrait. Collectors often seek complete sets from all 12 districts, especially when star notes are available from multiple print runs or with different production characteristics such as block letters or printing facilities.
In terms of mintage, while regular $1 notes are printed in the billions, star notes are produced in significantly smaller quantities. Exact figures depend on the district and printing run, but print runs for star notes often range from 320,000 to 3.2 million notes—vastly fewer than standard issues. Star note print runs are documented in BEP production reports, and certain runs are considered rare or more collectible due to limited release. For example, a star note from a short run or from a rarely seen district can command a premium, even in circulated condition.
The CU (Crisp Uncirculated) condition grading denotes that the note has never been circulated and retains full original paper quality, brightness, and crispness. A CU star note will have sharp corners, no folds or creases, and clean margins. Under close inspection, such a note should reveal well-defined intaglio printing, bright ink, and complete design details. While not as rare or expensive as GEM CU or certified examples graded 65 and above, a raw CU star note still presents significant appeal for collectors interested in high-grade modern paper money.
Collectors of modern U.S. currency often focus on star notes because of their unique status and limited availability. The 2009 $1 STAR note appeals to those building Federal Reserve district sets, collecting by serial number types (such as low numbers, ladders, or repeaters), or assembling type sets of each note series. Some enthusiasts even collect star notes exclusively, treating them as a niche subfield within modern numismatics. The affordability of $1 star notes in CU condition also makes them accessible to beginners, educators, and youth collectors.
Overall, the 2009 $1 STAR Federal Reserve Note in Crisp Uncirculated condition is a testament to the continuing relevance of small-denomination paper money in both commerce and collecting. As a replacement note, it tells a behind-the-scenes story of quality control at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. As a numismatic item, it offers a tangible connection to modern history, the U.S. monetary system, and the enduring legacy of America’s first president. Whether as part of a comprehensive star note collection or a standalone keepsake, this 2009 issue represents the intersection of function, history, and collectible charm.