Rare: Most of us don’t give a second thought to the $5 bills in our wallets—but some can be worth a fortune. Currency collectors are currently buzzing over a rare $5 bill with a radar serial number “31000” that could fetch up to $4.5 million at auction.
What Is a Radar Serial Number?
A radar note is a bill whose serial number reads the same backward and forward—just like a word palindrome. While most radar bills have common digit patterns, extremely low or unique numbers can command astronomical prices among collectors.
The serial number 31000 is exceptionally rare because:
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It’s a perfect numerical palindrome (3-1-0-0-0-1-3).
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It features a low serial number starting with “000.”
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Very few such bills are printed and even fewer survive in pristine condition.
Why This $5 Bill Could Be Worth Millions
The value of collectible currency depends on rarity, condition, and collector demand. Experts say this specific radar pattern is so uncommon that serious collectors are willing to pay millions to own it—especially if the bill is uncirculated and graded by a professional currency service.
How to Check Your $5 Bills
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Look at the serial number—it’s printed twice on the front of every bill.
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See if it reads the same backward and forward.
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Confirm it matches 31000 exactly—other radar numbers may still have value, but not in the multi-million range.
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If you find one, avoid handling it too much to preserve its condition.
What to Do If You Have One
If you believe you own this rare $5 bill:
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Get it professionally authenticated by a reputable grading service like PMG or PCGS Currency.
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Contact a high-profile auction house that specializes in rare currency.
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Never sell to random buyers online without verification—you could lose millions.
FAQ Could Your Rare $5 Bill Be Worth $4.5M? Look for Radar Serial Number 31000
1. What makes the $5 bill with serial number 31000 so valuable?
It’s an extremely rare radar note—a palindrome serial number—that also has a low-number pattern, making it highly sought after by collectors.
2. How can I check if my $5 bill is a radar note?
Look at the serial number on the front of the bill and see if it reads the same forward and backward. The exact number to look for is 31000.
3. Does the bill need to be in perfect condition to be valuable?
Yes, condition matters. Bills in uncirculated or near-perfect condition can command the highest prices.
4. How should I sell it if I find one?
Have it authenticated and graded by PMG or PCGS Currency, then work with a reputable auction house specializing in rare currency.