BEP printing – US Notes

Federal Reserve Notes Series 1963: The Historic First Issues Bearing ‘In God We Trust’

June 15, 2026June 15, 2026 by

The Series 1963 Federal Reserve Notes mark a pivotal moment in American currency history, as they were the first Federal Reserve Notes to carry the national motto ‘In God We Trust’ on the reverse. Collectors prize these notes not only for their historical significance but also for a fascinating array of signature combinations, star notes, and district varieties that make assembling a complete set a rewarding challenge.

Series 1981A $1 Federal Reserve Note: How to Identify the Transitional Printing Differences from the 1981 Series

June 15, 2026 by

The Series 1981A $1 Federal Reserve Note marks a subtle but significant transitional moment in Bureau of Engraving and Printing history, with key differences in plate letter positioning, overprint characteristics, and signature combinations that most collectors overlook. Understanding these distinctions not only sharpens your eye for authentication but can reveal genuinely scarce varieties hiding in plain sight.

Fake Star Notes: How to Detect Counterfeit Replacement Stars Added to Common Serial Numbers After Printing

June 15, 2026 by

Altered star notes — ordinary bills doctored with a crudely added star symbol to mimic valuable replacement notes — represent one of the most persistent frauds in paper money collecting. This guide walks you through the authentication techniques, known alteration methods, and red flags that every collector must know before buying a star note.

The Changeover Pair: Collecting Sequential Notes Spanning Two Signature Series

June 15, 2026 by

A changeover pair is one of the most fascinating and underappreciated finds in paper money collecting, capturing the exact moment the Bureau of Engraving and Printing transitioned from one Treasurer-Secretary signature combination to another. This guide explains what makes these consecutive-serial-number pairs so compelling, how to identify them, and which combinations command serious premiums in today’s market.