Silver certificate dollar bills were a type of U.S. paper money issued between 1878 and 1964. They came in two main sizes: large-size notes (1878–1923) and small-size notes (1928–1964). Each type had unique designs and historical significance. Below, we list the top 10 most valuable silver certificates ever issued.
Originally, these certificates could be exchanged for silver dollar coins and later for raw silver. This connection to silver makes them highly desirable for collectors.
Top 10 Most Valuable Silver Certificates
1. 1880 $500 Silver Certificate
- Year: 1880
- Value: Up to $900,000 in good condition
- This rare bill features Charles Sumner’s portrait. Only two are known to exist, one of which is in the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco.
2. 1891 $1 “Martha Washington” Silver Certificate
- Year: 1891
- Value: Up to $101,000 in good condition
- This was the first U.S. paper money to feature a real woman. Lower-grade versions sell for $100 to $300, while uncirculated ones can be worth thousands.
3. 1886 $5 “Silver Dollar Back” Certificate
- Year: 1886
- Value: Up to $66,000
- This note features Ulysses S. Grant and five silver dollars on the back. Only about 50 are known to exist.
4. 1923 $5 “Porthole” Silver Certificate
- Year: 1923
- Value: Up to $24,000
- Named for its round portrait of Abraham Lincoln, this bill is among the last large-size silver certificates. About 5,000 remain in circulation.
5. 1896 $1 Educational Series Silver Certificate
- Year: 1896
- Value: Up to $10,600
- Considered one of the most beautifully designed notes, it features History teaching Youth. High-grade versions can exceed $4,000 in value.
6. 1899 $1 “Black Eagle” Silver Certificate
- Year: 1899
- Value: Up to $10,000
- This note features a large black eagle above portraits of Lincoln and Grant. Fine-condition notes are valued at $175, while uncirculated ones can be worth thousands.
7. 1928C $1 Silver Certificate
- Year: 1928
- Value: Up to $7,500
- A rare small-size note from 1928. Star note variants are especially valuable.
8. 1928D $1 Silver Certificate
- Year: 1928
- Value: Up to $4,500
- This note features a “funnyback” reverse design. Well-preserved examples are highly sought after.
9. 1928E $1 Silver Certificate
- Year: 1928
- Value: $150 – $4,500
- The third-rarest note in the 1928 series, its value depends on condition, with uncirculated versions fetching the highest prices.
10. 1878 $1,000 Silver Certificate
- Year: 1878
- Value: Up to $1,000+
- One of the first silver certificates ever issued, this rare bill features William Marcy’s portrait. Its value varies widely based on condition.
Why Collect Silver Certificates?
Silver certificates are some of the most fascinating paper currencies in U.S. history. Their rich background and rarity make them highly desirable for both new and experienced collectors.
If you have silver certificates and want to know their worth, we offer free appraisals. You can also sell your collection through our secure platform.
