A rare $10 bill with a unique serial number known as a ladder could be worth up to $92,000 to collectors. These bills, called ladder notes, have serial numbers that follow a specific sequence, making them stand out. For anyone with a few $10 bills in their wallet, this could be a chance to find a hidden treasure. Here’s how to identify a ladder serial $10 bill and why it’s so valuable.
What Is a Ladder Serial Number?
A ladder serial number is when the digits on a bill’s serial number go in a perfect sequence, like 1234567890 or 0987654321. These patterns are rare because the Bureau of Engraving and Printing assigns serial numbers randomly, and only a tiny fraction form a perfect ladder. Both ascending (1234567890) and descending (0987654321) ladders are valuable, but true ladders with all 10 digits in order are the rarest. Finding one feels like winning a small lottery.
How to Check Your $10 Bill
To spot a ladder serial $10 bill, look at the green serial number on the front of the bill, located at the top right and bottom left. Check if the digits form a sequence like 1234567890 or 0987654321. Make sure the bill is genuine by holding it up to light to see the security thread and watermark, which are standard on real $10 bills. The table below shows what to look for:
| Feature | What to Check |
|---|---|
| Serial Number | Digits in order (1234567890 or 0987654321) |
| Security Features | Watermark and thread visible in light |
Why Are Ladder Bills So Valuable?
Collectors love ladder serial bills because they’re incredibly rare and visually striking. Out of billions of bills printed, only a handful have perfect ladder sequences. Auction records show that $10 bills with true ladder serials have sold for $50,000 to $92,000, depending on their condition. Crisp, uncirculated bills fetch the highest prices, but even used ones can be worth thousands. The unique pattern and scarcity make these bills a prize for currency enthusiasts.
Where to Find These Rare Bills
You might stumble across a ladder serial $10 bill in everyday cash, like change from a store, a bank withdrawal, or even an old stash at home. Any series year could have a ladder serial, but older bills from the 1990s or early 2000s are often more collectible. Compare your bill’s serial number to the ladder patterns mentioned. The table below lists the types of ladder serials:
| Ladder Type | Example Serial Number |
|---|---|
| Ascending Ladder | 1234567890 |
| Descending Ladder | 0987654321 |
What to Do If You Find a Ladder Bill
If you find a $10 bill with a ladder serial, don’t spend it. Reach out to a trusted currency dealer or auction house, such as Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers, to verify its authenticity. Getting the bill graded by a professional service like PMG or PCGS Currency can boost its value, especially if it’s in great condition. Store the bill in a protective sleeve to keep it safe. With luck, your $10 bill could turn into a collector’s gem worth thousands, making a quick wallet check well worth your time.