by Bianca Bart | June 06, 2024

Save or Spend: Is This a Fancy Serial Number?

Collecting fancy serial numbers on paper money can be an exciting and unique hobby. Fancy serial numbers are those that have special patterns or sequences that make them stand out from regular serial numbers.Here’s a guide to help you start collecting fancy serial numbers:

1. Understand What Constitutes a Fancy Serial Number

Fancy serial numbers can be categorized into several types.

Here are some of the most common:

  • Repeater: A serial number where the sequence repeats (e.g., 12341234).
  • Super Repeater: A serial number where the first two digits repeat (e.g., 12121212).
  • Radar: A palindrome-like serial number that reads the same forwards and backwards (e.g., 12344321 ).
  • Super Radar: A radar with identical numbers on the end and six of the same digit inside (e.g., 12222221).
  • Ladder: A serial number where each digit is in ascending or descending order (e.g., 12345678 or 87654321).
  • Binary: A serial number with only two different digits (e.g., 01010101).
  • Solid: A serial number where all the digits are the same (e.g., 11111111).
  • Low Numbers: Serial numbers that start with a series of zeroes (e.g., 00000001 to 00000100).
  • High Numbers: Serial numbers close to the highest possible number for that denomination. (e.g. 99999998) 
  • Birthday/Anniversary: Serial numbers that match a specific date (e.g., 12251990 for December 25, 1990).

2. Learn to Identify Fancy Serial Numbers

Familiarize yourself with the different types of fancy serial numbers and practice identifying them. This will help you quickly spot valuable notes when you come across them. You never know what the cashier might hand you, so always check your change! 

3. Start Collecting

There are several ways to start collecting fancy serial numbers:

  • Search Your Change: Regularly check the bills you receive in change for fancy serial numbers.
  • Ask Your Bank: Obtain new bills and search through them.
  • Online Marketplaces: Look for fancy serial number notes on websites like ExecutiveCurrency.com  ( Shop All Fancy Numbers Here
  • Currency Dealers: Purchase from reputable currency dealers who specialize in fancy serial numbers. You have options, but Executive Currency is the largest Fancy Number Dealer in the country.

4. Preserve and Store Your Collection

Proper storage is essential to maintain the condition and value of your fancy serial number collection:

  • Protective Sleeves: Use Mylar or other archival-quality sleeves to protect your notes from damage.
  • Storage Environment: Store your notes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and deterioration.
  • Handling: If you must handle your notes, be sure to do so with clean hands to avoid transferring oils and dirt.

5. Keep Records

Maintain detailed records of your collection, including:

  • Serial Number Details: Record the type of fancy serial number, denomination, series, and condition of the note.
  • Provenance: Note where and when you acquired each note.

6. Engage with the Collecting Community

Joining the community can enhance your collecting experience:

  • Numismatic Clubs: Join local or national currency collecting clubs.
  • Online Forums: Participate in online forums and social media groups dedicated to currency collecting and fancy serial numbers.
  • Follow Executive Currency on Instagram and Facebook for industry news, exclusive sales on Fancy Serial Numbers, and free giveaways!
  • Coin and Currency Shows: Attend shows to meet other collectors, learn from experts, and find new additions to your collection.

7. Stay Informed

Keep up-to-date with the latest news and trends in currency collecting:

  • Publications: Subscribe to numismatic magazines and journals.
  • Websites: Regularly visit websites and forums dedicated to currency collecting.
  • Networking: Stay in touch with other collectors and dealers who can provide insights and tips.

8. Be Patient and Persistent

Finding fancy serial numbers can take time and patience. Regularly check new bills and don’t get discouraged if you don’t find something right away. Persistence is key in building a noteworthy collection. Continue to review the extensive and ever-changing inventory of fancy serial numbers here: https://executivecurrency.com/special-serial-numbered-notes

By following these steps you'll be well on your way to starting an impressive collection of fancy serial number notes. 


If you're not sure if something is worth saving or spending (or need a little help with assigning a value) submit a fast and free appraisal. 


By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to starting a fascinating collection of fancy serial number notes. Happy collecting!

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