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The 2021 $1 STAR Federal Reserve Note in Crisp Uncirculated (CU) condition is a highly desirable and collectible example of modern U.S. currency, representing a special class of replacement notes issued to maintain quality control during the currency printing process. Star notes are printed to replace defective notes identified by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) and are marked with a star symbol at the end of the serial number in place of the usual alphabetical suffix. Because they are printed in smaller quantities than regular notes, star notes are widely sought after by collectors, especially when found in perfect uncirculated condition.
Star notes serve a critical role in the production process of U.S. paper money. When a note is misprinted or damaged during manufacturing, it is pulled from the stack and replaced with a note bearing the same denomination and series but a distinct serial number ending in a star. This ensures continuity in accounting and prevents duplication of serial numbers. The star is a clear and intentional identifier that signals the note’s status as a replacement. While most casual users of currency will never notice a star note, to collectors, these notes represent a fascinating and scarcer subset of U.S. currency issues.
The 2021 $1 STAR note retains the classic design elements that have characterized the U.S. one-dollar bill for decades. On the obverse, the central feature is a finely engraved portrait of George Washington, derived from the iconic 1796 painting by Gilbert Stuart. Washington's image is framed by detailed scrollwork and surrounded by inscriptions that include “Federal Reserve Note,” “The United States of America,” and the denomination, “One Dollar.” The blue-green Treasury seal and matching serial numbers are printed with precision, and the addition of the star to the serial number is the only visual cue that distinguishes the note from a regular issue.
The reverse of the 2021 $1 note remains unchanged from the long-standing design introduced in 1935. It features two powerful symbols of American identity: the obverse and reverse of the Great Seal of the United States. On the left side of the back is the unfinished pyramid with the Eye of Providence, representing strength, vigilance, and divine guidance. Below it is the Latin phrase “Novus Ordo Seclorum,” meaning “A new order of the ages.” On the right side is the American bald eagle clutching an olive branch and arrows, symbolic of peace and military readiness, respectively. Thirteen stars above the eagle’s head represent the original thirteen colonies, reinforcing the nation’s origins.
The 2021 series was produced during a period of heightened demand for physical currency, driven in part by the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. To meet this need, the BEP operated at high capacity, producing billions of notes across all denominations. Star notes were printed in smaller, targeted batches, often replacing defective sheets or fulfilling quota gaps in specific Federal Reserve district orders. Each note bears a Federal Reserve Bank designation, indicated by a district letter (A–L) and corresponding number (1–12), such as “A1” for Boston or “L12” for San Francisco. The printing facility (Washington, D.C., or Fort Worth, Texas) may also be identifiable by the presence of a small “FW” prefix near the plate position letter.
In Crisp Uncirculated condition, a 2021 $1 STAR note exhibits immaculate paper quality, sharp corners, and vibrant ink with no folds, creases, stains, or signs of circulation. The “CU” designation ensures that the note has not been handled, pressed, or altered in any way. Notes in this condition often come directly from BEP straps or Federal Reserve bricks and are stored by collectors in protective holders to preserve their pristine state. The paper retains its original stiffness and embossing, and the printed devices—such as serial numbers, seals, and portraits—are crisp and well-registered.
The collector market for $1 STAR notes is vibrant and well-established. While these notes often command a modest premium above face value in CU condition, their value can increase substantially depending on factors such as the rarity of the district, the production run size, and the note’s serial number. For instance, star notes from certain districts with small replacement print runs are far scarcer and more desirable. Additionally, collectors often seek out full sets of star notes by Federal Reserve district or year, which adds demand to even common issues.
The production of star notes is meticulously tracked and documented by currency researchers and publications such as the "Standard Guide to Small-Size U.S. Paper Money" and online resources like the Bureau of Engraving and Printing’s Monthly Production Reports. Collectors use these references to determine the print run sizes of specific star notes and identify rarities. A 2021 $1 STAR note from a small run—typically under 320,000 notes—can be significantly more valuable than one from a larger run of 3.2 million. Verifying the exact print run and district is crucial for proper valuation.
Because the $1 denomination is the most widely circulated and frequently produced, it also presents the most opportunities for discovering star notes in the wild. However, finding a 2021 STAR note in Crisp Uncirculated condition is much less common, as most $1 bills enter circulation quickly and experience wear. For this reason, collectors often rely on unsearched Federal Reserve straps or purchase directly from currency dealers to obtain high-grade star notes. The appeal of owning a flawless example of a note with a built-in rarity factor like the star suffix continues to drive strong interest.
In summary, the 2021 $1 STAR Federal Reserve Note in Crisp Uncirculated condition is a modern yet distinguished collectible that combines the historic design of American currency with the intrigue of replacement note rarity. Its superb condition ensures it displays the full beauty and craftsmanship of contemporary BEP printing, while the star serial number adds an element of scarcity and desirability. Whether part of a broader collection of $1 notes, a star note set, or simply a standout example of current U.S. currency, this note embodies the convergence of tradition, precision, and modern collecting enthusiasm.