10 Most Valuable Silver Certificate Dollar Bills

Silver certificate dollar bills were a form of U.S. paper currency issued from 1878 to 1964. They came in two formats: large-size notes (1878–1923) and small-size notes (1928–1964), each showcasing distinct designs. In this article we will uncover top 10 most valuable Silver Certificate dollar bills of all time.

To fulfill the demand for silver-backed paper currency, silver certificate dollar bills were originally redeemable for their face value in silver dollar coins and later in raw silver bullion. This history adds to their appeal among collectors.

If you own silver certificates, and want to sell your collection or just know its value, email us at customerservice@bullionsharks.com. We offer a free appraisal service to help you get them appraised.

Now, let's dive into the 10 most valuable silver certificates.

Most Valuable Silver Certificates List

1880 $500 Silver Certificate Dollar Bill 

Year: 1880
Price: up to $900,000 in good condition

The 1880 $500 silver certificate is an exceptionally rare and highly valuable high-denomination note. In 2021, a PMG 15 Choice Fine graded example was auctioned with an estimated value between $700,000 and $900,000.

This coveted certificate features a portrait of Charles Sumner on the front and is among the rarest U.S. notes. Only two are known to exist, with one securely housed in the collection of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco.

1891 $1 “Martha Washington” Silver Certificate Dollar Bill

Year: 1891
Price: up to $101,000 in good condition

The 1891 $1 silver certificate holds a significant place in U.S. monetary history. Known as the “Martha Washington” note, it was the first U.S. paper currency to feature a real woman as the central portrait rather than an allegorical figure. This distinctive design makes it highly sought after by collectors.

In lower grades, these notes typically sell for $100 to $300. However, in uncirculated condition, their value rises substantially, with some examples commanding thousands of dollars.

 

1886 $5 “Silver Dollar Back” Certificate Dollar Bill

Year: 1886
Price based on condition:Up to $66,000

Renowned for its intricate design, the 1886 $5 silver certificate is one of the most coveted notes among collectors. It features a portrait of General and President Ulysses S. Grant on the front, while the reverse showcases five silver dollars.

With only about 50 known examples in existence, this rarity significantly enhances its value. Its striking design appeals not only to currency collectors but also to coin enthusiasts. Even lower-quality notes can fetch thousands of dollars at auction.

 

1923 $5 “Porthole” Silver Certificate Dollar Bill

Year: 1923
Price based on condition: up to $24,000

The 1923 $5 “Porthole” silver certificate is regarded as one of the most visually striking U.S. banknotes. It earns its nickname from the circular portrait of Abraham Lincoln at the center. Additionally, it was among the last large-size silver certificates ever issued.

Though not as rare as some other notes, it remains relatively scarce, with only about 5,000 known examples in existence. Even in lower grades, these notes can command prices of around $1,000 or more.

Collecting rare silver coins and bills? Learn more about silver eagle coin collecting strategies.

1896 $1 Educational Series Silver Certificate Dollar Bill

Year: 1896
Price based on condition: up to $10,600

The 1896 $1 Educational Series is often hailed as the most beautiful design in U.S. paper currency. The obverse showcases an allegorical figure of History teaching Youth, while the reverse features portraits of Martha and George Washington.

Its rarity and stunning artwork make it highly valuable. In very fine condition, these notes can fetch around $500, while higher-grade examples can exceed $4,000, with some reaching up to $10,600.

For more insights into valuable collectible currency, read our blog about silver certificate dollars history.

1899 $1 “Black Eagle” Silver Certificate Dollar Bill

Year: 1899
Price based on condition: up to $10,000

The 1899 $1 “Black Eagle” silver certificate is one of the most recognizable and popular designs among collectors. It features a striking black-ink engraving of a large eagle on the obverse, with portraits of Abraham Lincoln and Ulysses S. Grant beneath it.

In very fine condition, these notes typically sell for around $175. Higher-grade examples command even greater value, with uncirculated specimens ranging from $525 to $625—and in some cases, selling for thousands of dollars.

1928C $1 Silver Certificate Dollar Bill 

Year: 1928
Price based on condition: up to $7,500

The year 1928 marked the transition to small-size Silver Certificates, with the 1928C series being one of the rarest. It is far less common than other series from that year, making it highly sought after by collectors.

In uncirculated condition, these notes typically sell for $125 to $600. Star note variants are especially rare and can command prices as high as $7,500 when in excellent condition.

1928D $1 Silver Certificate Dollar Bill

Year: 1928
Price based on condition: up to $4,500

The 1928D Silver Certificate is another rare and valuable note from the 1928 series. Like other notes from this year, it features a portrait of George Washington on the obverse with a blue seal on the left side. The reverse showcases the distinctive “funnyback” design, characterized by a large “ONE” and repeated “one dollar” text.

In good condition, this note can be worth up to $4,500. Lower-grade examples typically range from $40 to $100, depending on their condition and unique characteristics.

1928E $1 Silver Certificate Dollar Bill 

Year: 1928
Price based on condition:High: $4,500
Low: $150

The 1928C Silver Certificate ranks as the third rarest in the 1928 series, making it a highly desirable piece for collectors. In excellent condition, these notes can be worth up to $4,500.

As the last issue before the 1934 design change, this certificate holds historical significance. Heavily circulated examples typically sell for around $150, while those in fine condition can reach $500 or more. Pristine, uncirculated specimens command even higher values.

1878 $1,000 Silver Certificate Dollar Bill

Year: 1878
Price based on condition: up to $1,000+

The 1878 $1,000 Silver Certificates are extremely rare, making their value difficult to estimate. As one of the first silver certificates ever issued, this series features a portrait of William Marcy on the front.

Being one of the highest denominations in the series, these notes are highly sought after by collectors for their rarity and historical significance. Large-size silver certificates can range in value from $33.75 to hundreds of thousands of dollars.

For more insights into high-value currency, check out our guide to the most valuable Morgan dollars.

Silver certificates are some of the most captivating paper currencies for collectors. With their rich history and high value, they are highly sought after by both seasoned collectors and beginners alike.

If you own silver certificates and want to know their value, consider getting a free appraisal for silver coins through Bullion Shark. You may be surprised by how much they’re worth!

You can also sell your coins easily through our secure, user-friendly platform, turning your rare notes and coins into cash with minimal hassle.

Looking for a quick and easy way to get your collection appraised? Email us at customerservice@bullionsharks.com, where our experts will provide a professional assessment with no obligation to sell.

 

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