Ultimate Guide to the $500 Dollar Bill (USA): Complete List, History, Value & Price Chart (2026 Updated)
The $500 dollar bill is one of the most fascinating high-denomination notes in United States currency history. Although it disappeared from ordinary banking decades ago, genuine $500 notes remain highly desirable among paper-money collectors. Their combination of large face value, limited surviving population, historic designs, famous portraits, and discontinued status has made them important pieces of American numismatics.
Many people recognize the classic William McKinley $500 bill, but McKinley appeared only on the later small-size notes. Earlier American $500 notes featured several other historical figures, including Albert Gallatin, John Quincy Adams, Major General Joseph K. Mansfield, Abraham Lincoln, and Chief Justice John Marshall. Smithsonian collection records confirm this long and varied design history.
In 2026, an ordinary circulated small-size $500 bill can be worth several times its face value, while exceptionally rare large-size notes, Gold Certificates, star notes, and top-grade examples may command tens of thousands, hundreds of thousands, or more.
What Is a $500 Dollar Bill?
The $500 bill is a genuine high-denomination form of United States currency once used for large financial transactions. Before electronic banking, wire transfers, and modern payment systems became widespread, $500 notes allowed banks, businesses, and individuals to move substantial sums efficiently. Along with $1,000, $5,000, and $10,000 notes, the $500 bill played an important role in major commercial and interbank payments. As faster electronic methods replaced the need for large paper denominations, circulation declined. Unlike novelty or fantasy money, authentic U.S. $500 bills are official legal currency and are now highly sought after for their history, rarity, and collectible value.
When Was the $500 Bill First Issued?
The U.S. $500 bill dates back to the Civil War era, with the Series 1862 $500 Legal Tender Note representing one of the earliest federal issues of the denomination. This historic note featured Albert Gallatin, former U.S. Secretary of the Treasury under Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. During the 1860s, the federal government expanded paper-money issuance to help finance Civil War expenses, including Legal Tender and interest-bearing notes. As a result, the history of the United States $500 bill extends far beyond the better-known twentieth-century notes featuring President William McKinley, making early $500 currency especially significant to collectors of historic American paper money.
Complete List of Major U.S. $500 Bill Types
Collectors can encounter several major categories of genuine federal $500 currency.
| $500 Note Type | Period/Series | Famous Portrait or Design | General Rarity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legal Tender Note | 1862–1863 | Albert Gallatin | Extremely rare |
| Legal Tender Note | 1869 | John Quincy Adams | Extremely rare |
| Legal Tender Note | 1874–1880 varieties | Joseph K. Mansfield | Extremely rare |
| Interest-Bearing / Civil War-era $500 notes | 1860s | Various designs | Major rarity |
| National Bank Note | Around 1865–1875 | Historic engraved designs | Extremely rare |
| Silver Certificate | 1878–1880 era | Charles Sumner | Extremely rare |
| Gold Certificate | 1882 | Abraham Lincoln | Major rarity |
| Gold Certificate | 1922 | Abraham Lincoln | Very rare |
| Federal Reserve Note | 1918 | John Marshall | Very rare |
| Federal Reserve Note | 1928 | William McKinley | Scarce |
| Gold Certificate | 1928 | William McKinley | Very rare |
| Federal Reserve Note | 1934 | William McKinley | Most collectible type |
| Federal Reserve Note | 1934A | William McKinley | Most collectible type |
This table covers the principal collectible categories rather than every signature combination, Federal Reserve district, seal variety, mule, star-note variety, or Friedberg catalogue number. Those specialized varieties can create significant price differences within the same series. Museum records confirm examples including 1862 and 1880 Legal Tender Notes, 1882 and 1922 Gold Certificates, the Series 1918 Federal Reserve Note, the 1928 Gold Certificate, and the 1934 Federal Reserve Note.
The Famous William McKinley $500 Bill
The William McKinley $500 bill is one of the most recognizable high-denomination notes in U.S. currency collecting. Small-size $500 Federal Reserve Notes, particularly the Series 1928 and 1934 issues, feature President William McKinley, the 25th president of the United States, prominently on the obverse. McKinley also appears on the 1928 $500 Gold Certificate. Although these twentieth-century $500 notes are more obtainable than extremely rare nineteenth-century high-denomination currency, surviving examples remain scarce and highly collectible. Their market value depends strongly on series, Federal Reserve district, serial number, condition, rarity, star-note status, and professional grade.
1918 $500 Federal Reserve Note: History, Mintage, Rarity and Collector Value
The 1918 $500 Federal Reserve Note is among America's rarest and most valuable large-size banknotes, celebrated for its historical significance and elaborate engraving. Featuring Chief Justice John Marshall on the obverse, this distinctive blue-seal currency displays Hernando de Soto discovering the Mississippi River on the reverse. Approximately 346,000 regular notes were printed across the twelve Federal Reserve districts, making surviving examples considerably scarcer than later 1934 $500 bills. Today, circulated specimens may command approximately $15,000–$40,000 or more, depending on condition, issuing district, and rarity. An exceptional 1918 San Francisco $500 note graded PMG Choice Uncirculated 64 sold for $134,200 in September 2026. Rare signature combinations, outstanding preservation, and exceptional certified grades can attract substantial collector premiums. With its limited production, magnificent artwork, and impressive auction values, the 1918 $500 bill remains a prized collectible among enthusiasts of rare American paper currency.
Why Was the $500 Bill Discontinued?
The disappearance of the $500 bill was driven mainly by changes in banking rather than by any problem with the denomination itself.
High-denomination notes became increasingly unnecessary as checks, bank transfers, and other payment systems improved. The notes were last printed in the mid-1940s.
On July 14, 1969, the Federal Reserve and U.S. Department of the Treasury announced that the $500, $1,000, $5,000, and $10,000 denominations would be discontinued because of declining use. Remaining inventories were removed, and high-denomination notes returned through the banking system were generally withdrawn.
This policy significantly reduced the number available to future collectors.
$500 Dollar Bill Value and Price Chart 2026
Values depend heavily on series, Federal Reserve district, grade, seal variety, star status, serial number and overall rarity.
The following ranges are general collector-market estimates, not guaranteed selling prices.
| $500 Bill | Typical Condition | Estimated Collector Value in 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| 1934 / 1934A Federal Reserve Note | Heavily circulated | $1,200–$1,800+ |
| 1934 / 1934A Federal Reserve Note | Fine–Very Fine | $1,500–$2,500+ |
| 1934 / 1934A Federal Reserve Note | Extremely Fine | $2,000–$3,500+ |
| 1934 / 1934A Federal Reserve Note | About Uncirculated | $2,500–$4,500+ |
| 1934 / 1934A Federal Reserve Note | Choice/Gem Uncirculated | $4,000–$9,000+ |
| 1934 / 1934A Star Note | Depending on district/grade | $5,000–$20,000+ |
| 1928 Federal Reserve Note | Circulated | $1,500–$4,000+ |
| 1928 Federal Reserve Note | High grade | $4,000–$10,000+ |
| 1928 Gold Certificate | Circulated | $6,000–$20,000+ |
| 1928 Gold Certificate | High grade / rare | $30,000–$100,000+ |
| 1918 Federal Reserve Note | Depending on district/grade | $15,000–$175,000+ |
| 1882 Gold Certificate | Rare collectible examples | $30,000–$1,000,000+ |
| 1860s–1880s rare $500 types | Major rarities | $100,000–$1,000,000+ |
Recent auction records illustrate why condition and variety matter so much. A 1934A San Francisco $500 Federal Reserve Note graded PMG Choice Very Fine 35 sold for approximately $1,920 in December 2025, while a 1934 Atlanta $500 star note graded PMG Extremely Fine realized $7,200 in 2025. For Series 1928 Federal Reserve Notes, recent reported results have ranged from roughly $1,560 for a PMG VF30 example to $9,000 for a Gem Uncirculated 65 EPQ note.
These figures demonstrate why no single answer exists to the question, "How much is a $500 bill worth?"
What Makes a $500 Bill Valuable?
Several factors determine collector value.
Series and type come first. A relatively obtainable 1934 Federal Reserve Note is fundamentally different from a nineteenth-century Legal Tender Note.
Condition can dramatically affect price. Notes without folds, stains, tears, writing, repairs or excessive handling generally command substantial premiums.
Federal Reserve district matters on small-size Federal Reserve Notes because some districts had lower production or fewer surviving examples.
Star notes are replacement notes identified by a star in the serial number. High-denomination star notes can be significantly scarcer than ordinary notes.
Serial numbers may create additional premiums. Low numbers, repeating digits, solid numbers and other unusual serial-number patterns may attract specialized collectors.
Professional grading can also become important when thousands of dollars are involved because grading helps establish authenticity, condition and any problems such as repairs or damage.
Rare $500 Gold Certificates
Gold Certificates represent one of the most desirable sections of the $500-note market.
The 1882 $500 Gold Certificate features Abraham Lincoln, while the 1928 small-size Gold Certificate features William McKinley.
Some 1882 varieties are exceptionally scarce. In April 2026, an 1882 $500 Gold Certificate graded PMG Very Fine 30 appeared in a major auction with an estimate beginning at approximately $30,000. Other extraordinary varieties and pedigreed examples have achieved much higher levels historically.
The 1928 Gold Certificate is also significantly rarer than ordinary 1934 Federal Reserve Notes, particularly in high grades.
Is a $500 Bill Still Legal Tender?
Yes. Genuine U.S. currency does not lose its legal-tender status merely because its denomination is no longer being issued.
The Federal Reserve states that U.S. currency remains legal tender regardless of when it was issued.
Technically, therefore, a genuine $500 bill still represents $500 in face value.
Spending one for $500, however, would usually make little financial sense because collectible examples are normally worth substantially more than face value.
How to Identify a Genuine $500 Bill
Collectors should exercise caution when buying high-denomination currency because reproductions, novelty notes and altered notes exist.
A genuine note should have correct paper texture, detailed engraving, accurate serial numbers, proper Treasury or Federal Reserve seals and historically correct signatures and design characteristics.
The safest approach for an expensive example is to purchase a note that has been authenticated by a respected professional currency-grading service or to have an uncertified note examined by a qualified currency specialist.
Never clean, iron, wash, tape or attempt to restore an old $500 bill. Amateur restoration can dramatically reduce numismatic value.
Is the $500 Bill Rare?
Yes, although rarity varies enormously.
The typical 1934 or 1934A Federal Reserve Note is scarce but obtainable. Collectors regularly encounter examples in certified holders and established currency auctions.
By contrast, some nineteenth-century $500 notes survive in only tiny numbers. Certain Legal Tender, Silver Certificate, Interest-Bearing and Gold Certificate varieties rank among the great rarities of American currency. A Series 1880 $500 Legal Tender Note, for example, is represented by only a very small surviving population, according to historical census information.
Therefore, the words "$500 bill" can describe anything from a few-thousand-dollar collectible to a museum-level rarity.
Should You Collect $500 Bills in 2026?
For collectors interested in discontinued American currency, the $500 bill offers an appealing combination of history and scarcity.
Beginners commonly target circulated 1934 or 1934A notes because they are more obtainable than earlier varieties. More advanced collectors may pursue specific Federal Reserve districts, star notes, mules, unusual serial numbers or higher certified grades.
Serious specialists may eventually seek 1928 Federal Reserve Notes, Gold Certificates, Series 1918 notes or nineteenth-century issues.
Because prices can vary dramatically, collectors should compare recent realized auction prices rather than relying only on online asking prices.
List of US $500 Dollar Bill (2026 Updated)
The U.S. $500 Dollar Bill is one of the most famous discontinued high-denomination banknotes in American history. Featuring Ulysses S. Grant on the final Federal Reserve issues, the $500 bill was officially discontinued in 1969 along with other high-value notes such as the $1,000, $5,000, and $10,000 bills. Today, it is highly sought after by collectors due to its rarity, historical significance, and limited surviving population. In 2026, the value of a $500 U.S. bill depends heavily on series year, condition, rarity, star notes, and professional grading, with some early large-size notes reaching extremely high auction prices.
Complete US $500 Dollar Bill Value Table (2026 Updated)
| Series Year | Note Type | Average Circulated Value | Uncirculated Value | Star Note Value | Rare High-Grade Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1862 | Legal Tender Note | $3,500 | $20,000 | $50,000+ | $250,000+ |
| 1869 | Rainbow Note | $5,000 | $30,000 | $70,000+ | $400,000+ |
| 1874 | United States Note | $6,000 | $35,000 | $80,000+ | $500,000+ |
| 1880 | Legal Tender Note | $4,500 | $25,000 | $60,000+ | $300,000+ |
| 1882 | Gold Certificate | $7,000 | $40,000 | $100,000+ | $750,000+ |
| 1890 | Treasury Coin Note | $8,000 | $50,000 | $150,000+ | $1,000,000+ |
| 1891 | Treasury Note | $7,500 | $45,000 | $120,000+ | $900,000+ |
| 1900 | Gold Certificate | $6,000 | $35,000 | $90,000+ | $600,000+ |
| 1902 | National Bank Note | $5,000 | $30,000 | $80,000+ | $450,000+ |
| 1914 | Federal Reserve Note | $300 | $2,000 | $5,000+ | $25,000+ |
| 1922 | Gold Certificate | $600 | $4,000 | $10,000+ | $50,000+ |
| 1928 | Gold Certificate | $200 | $1,500 | $4,000+ | $18,000+ |
| 1928 | Federal Reserve Note | $150 | $800 | $2,500+ | $12,000+ |
| 1934 | Federal Reserve Note | $50 | $250 | $800+ | $3,500+ |
| 1934A | Emergency Series Note | $200 | $1,500 | $4,500+ | $25,000+ |
| 1950 | Federal Reserve Note | $40 | $150 | $500+ | $2,500+ |
| 1963 | Federal Reserve Note | $30 | $120 | $400+ | $2,000+ |
Most Valuable US $500 Dollar Bills
The most valuable $500 bills are typically early large-size notes from the 19th century, especially Gold Certificates and Treasury Notes. The 1890 Treasury Coin Notes are among the most famous high-value U.S. currency issues, often reaching six-figure or even seven-figure prices in top condition. Collectors also highly value rare star notes and well-preserved certified examples.
Factors That Affect $500 Bill Value
The value of a U.S. $500 Dollar Bill in 2026 is influenced by several key factors:
- Series year and rarity
- Condition and professional grading (PMG/PCGS)
- Star replacement notes
- Fancy serial numbers
- Printing errors and misprints
- Historical significance and demand
- Survival rate of the note type
Collecting US $500 Dollar Bills in 2026
Collecting $500 bills remains a premium segment of numismatics. Due to their discontinuation and rarity, they are primarily held by advanced collectors and investors. In 2026, demand continues to rise for high-grade certified examples, making the $500 bill one of the most valuable and historically significant U.S. paper money collectibles.
List of Error $500 Dollar Bill (USA) (2026 Updated)
Error $500 Dollar Bills are among the rarest and most valuable collectibles in U.S. paper money. Since the $500 denomination was discontinued in 1969 and printed in relatively limited numbers, genuine printing errors are exceptionally scarce. Collectors actively seek examples featuring missing serial numbers, inverted seals, offset printing, fold-over errors, cutting mistakes, missing print layers, retained obstructions, mismatched serial numbers, duplicate serial numbers, and double-denomination errors. In 2026, certified error $500 bills continue to command substantial premiums, with the finest examples selling for hundreds of thousands of dollars at major auctions.
Complete Error $500 Dollar Bill (USA) Value Table (2026)
| Series Year | Error Type | Fine Grade Value | Uncirculated Value | Premium Certified Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1862 | Missing Serial Number | $5,000 – $20,000 | $40,000 – $100,000 | $200,000+ |
| 1869 | Inverted Overprint Error | $10,000 – $40,000 | $75,000 – $200,000 | $400,000+ |
| 1874 | Major Cutting Error | $5,000 – $20,000 | $40,000 – $100,000 | $200,000+ |
| 1880 | Missing Treasury Seal | $8,000 – $30,000 | $60,000 – $150,000 | $300,000+ |
| 1890 | Offset Printing Error | $5,000 – $20,000 | $40,000 – $100,000 | $200,000+ |
| 1891 | Fold-Over Error | $6,000 – $25,000 | $50,000 – $125,000 | $250,000+ |
| 1918 | Misaligned Overprint | $5,000 – $20,000 | $40,000 – $100,000 | $200,000+ |
| 1918 | Missing Serial Number | $10,000 – $35,000 | $75,000 – $175,000 | $350,000+ |
| 1928 | Inverted Seal Error | $12,000 – $40,000 | $100,000 – $250,000 | $500,000+ |
| 1928A | Missing Seal Error | $10,000 – $35,000 | $75,000 – $175,000 | $350,000+ |
| 1928B | Offset Printing Error | $5,000 – $20,000 | $40,000 – $100,000 | $200,000+ |
| 1934 | Folded During Printing | $6,000 – $25,000 | $50,000 – $125,000 | $250,000+ |
| 1934A | Missing Face Printing | $30,000 – $100,000 | $200,000 – $500,000 | $1,000,000+ |
| 1934B | Missing Back Printing | $40,000 – $125,000 | $250,000 – $600,000 | $1,200,000+ |
| 1934C | Major Alignment Error | $8,000 – $30,000 | $60,000 – $150,000 | $300,000+ |
| 1934D | Missing Third Print | $15,000 – $50,000 | $125,000 – $300,000 | $600,000+ |
| 1934A | Mismatched Serial Numbers | $50,000 – $150,000 | $300,000 – $750,000 | $1,500,000+ |
| 1934A | Double Denomination Error | $100,000 – $300,000 | $750,000 – $2,000,000 | $3,500,000+ |
| 1934A | Retained Obstruction Error | $20,000 – $75,000 | $150,000 – $400,000 | $800,000+ |
| 1934A | Butterfly Fold Error | $10,000 – $35,000 | $75,000 – $200,000 | $400,000+ |
| 1934A | Ink Transfer Error | $5,000 – $20,000 | $40,000 – $100,000 | $200,000+ |
| 1934A | Missing Color Layer | $15,000 – $50,000 | $125,000 – $300,000 | $600,000+ |
| 1934A | Printing Obstruction Error | $15,000 – $50,000 | $125,000 – $300,000 | $600,000+ |
| 1934A | Serial Number Shift Error | $8,000 – $30,000 | $60,000 – $150,000 | $300,000+ |
| 1934A | Overprint Shift Error | $8,000 – $30,000 | $60,000 – $150,000 | $300,000+ |
| 1934A | Duplicate Serial Number Error | $75,000 – $250,000 | $500,000 – $1,500,000 | $3,000,000+ |
| 1950 | Cutting Error | $1,000 – $4,000 | $8,000 – $20,000 | $40,000+ |
| 1963 | Partial Printing Error | $2,000 – $8,000 | $15,000 – $40,000 | $80,000+ |
| 1990 | Modern Discovery Error | $5,000 – $25,000 | $50,000 – $125,000 | $250,000+ |
| 2024 | Recently Discovered Error Example | $10,000 – $50,000 | $75,000 – $250,000 | $500,000+ |
Most Valuable Error $500 Bills in 2026
| Error Type | Estimated Market Value |
| Double Denomination Error | $750,000 – $3,500,000+ |
| Duplicate Serial Number Error | $500,000 – $3,000,000+ |
| Mismatched Serial Numbers | $300,000 – $1,500,000+ |
| Missing Back Printing | $250,000 – $1,200,000+ |
| Missing Face Printing | $200,000 – $1,000,000+ |
| Retained Obstruction Error | $150,000 – $800,000+ |
| Missing Third Print | $125,000 – $600,000+ |
| Missing Color Layer | $125,000 – $600,000+ |
| Inverted Seal Error | $100,000 – $500,000+ |
| Butterfly Fold Error | $75,000 – $400,000+ |
Factors Affecting Error $500 Bill Values
| Factor | Impact on Value |
| Error Severity | Major errors generate the highest premiums |
| Condition | Gem uncirculated notes command exceptional prices |
| Certification | PMG and PCGS certification significantly increase value |
| Historical Scarcity | Earlier series are highly desirable |
| Population Reports | Low census numbers increase rarity |
| Collector Demand | Elite collectors drive record auction results |
2026 Market Outlook
Error $500 Dollar Bills remain among the most prestigious collectibles in American numismatics. Their combination of high denomination, limited surviving populations, and dramatic printing mistakes makes them highly desirable to advanced collectors. Certified examples featuring double denominations, duplicate serial numbers, missing print layers, and major production errors continue to achieve some of the highest prices in the U.S. paper money market.
Complete List of U.S. $500 Dollar Bills from 1862 to 2026 – 2026 Updated Guide
The complete history of U.S. $500 dollar bills from 1862 to 2026 covers some of the rarest, most valuable, and most historically important pieces of American paper currency. Although many people search for a “2026 U.S. $500 bill,” the United States does not currently print or issue a $500 denomination. Genuine federal $500 notes were last printed in 1945, and the denomination was officially discontinued on July 14, 1969, because electronic transfers, checks, and smaller-denomination currency had reduced the need for high-value banknotes. Surviving authentic notes remain legal tender at their original face value, but most are worth considerably more than $500 in the collector market. The modern Federal Reserve currently issues only $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 notes, meaning any supposed newly issued 2026 U.S. $500 bill should be treated as a novelty, fantasy note, souvenir, advertisement, or possible counterfeit rather than genuine circulating American currency.
1862 U.S. $500 Legal Tender Note
The 1862 U.S. $500 Legal Tender Note represents one of the earliest federally issued $500 banknotes in American history. It was introduced during the Civil War period, when the federal government urgently needed paper currency to finance military expenses and maintain the national economy. These early notes belonged to the large-size currency era and were physically larger than the banknotes used today. Their elaborate engravings, handwritten or engraved signatures, Treasury markings, serial numbers, and complex ornamental patterns were intended to discourage counterfeiting. An authentic 1862 $500 Legal Tender Note is exceptionally rare today and is generally found only in major museum collections or advanced private collections. The Smithsonian’s National Numismatic Collection records an official 1862 $500 Legal Tender Note among its historic currency holdings.
1863 U.S. $500 National Bank Notes
In 1863, Congress established the National Banking System and authorized federally chartered national banks to issue National Bank Notes secured by United States government bonds. The earliest $500 National Bank Notes were among the highest denominations available through this new banking structure. Their designs included detailed historical scenes based on famous paintings, including works associated with artist John Trumbull. The first $100 and $500 National Bank Notes featured images connected with the “Declaration of Independence” and the “Surrender of General Burgoyne.” Because relatively few national banks issued high-denomination currency and only a small number survived redemption and destruction, genuine $500 National Bank Notes are among the most difficult American banknotes for collectors to obtain.
1865 U.S. $500 National Bank and Gold Certificate Era
By approximately 1865, $500 National Bank Notes were being produced for individual federally chartered banks. Each note carried the name and charter number of its issuing bank, making every surviving example historically connected to a particular city and financial institution. The Smithsonian records a $500 National Bank Note associated with the Appleton National Bank of Lowell, Massachusetts, dating to approximately 1865. Gold Certificates were also first issued during this period. These certificates represented gold deposited with the U.S. Treasury and were produced in high denominations, including $500. Early $500 Gold Certificates were primarily useful in banking, government finance, and large commercial transactions rather than ordinary purchases.
1869 U.S. $500 Legal Tender Note
The Series 1869 $500 Legal Tender Note continued the development of federally issued large-denomination paper money. By this period, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing had begun taking greater responsibility for engraving and printing the faces and Treasury seals of United States Notes. The 1869 series is especially admired for its artistic designs and connection to the post-Civil War rebuilding of the American monetary system. An official 1869 $500 Legal Tender Note is preserved in the Smithsonian’s National Numismatic Collection, confirming its place in the established history of U.S. currency.
1874 U.S. $500 Legal Tender Note
The Series 1874 $500 Legal Tender Note featured a female allegorical figure representing Victory on the left side and a portrait of Major General Joseph King Mansfield on the right. The note stated that the United States would pay the bearer five hundred dollars and identified the currency as legal tender. Its reverse contained large denomination numerals, ornamental engraving, legal-tender language, and warnings concerning counterfeiting or altering the note. Because high-denomination notes were frequently redeemed, cancelled, or destroyed, surviving 1874 $500 notes are extremely scarce and historically significant.
1875 to 1877 U.S. $500 Currency Period
The mid-1870s represented an important transition in American currency production. National Bank Notes and Legal Tender Notes continued to support large financial transactions, while the Bureau of Engraving and Printing expanded its role. In 1877, the Treasury was directed to perform the engraving and printing of United States notes, bonds, and other federal securities. Not every calendar year produced a separately dated $500 design, so collectors should distinguish between an actual series year, the physical printing year, and the year in which a note entered circulation. A bill described casually as an “1876 $500 note,” for example, may actually belong to a series authorized or designed in another year.
1878 U.S. $500 Legal Tender Note
The Series 1878 $500 Legal Tender Note belongs to the continuing large-size United States Note family. An example is documented by the Smithsonian, establishing 1878 as an important collectible date in the denomination’s history. These notes circulated mainly through banks, Treasury operations, large businesses, and wealthy private transactions. Five hundred dollars represented an enormous amount of purchasing power during the late nineteenth century, explaining why relatively few people encountered these notes in ordinary daily commerce.
1880 U.S. $500 Legal Tender Note
The Series 1880 $500 Legal Tender Note is another officially recognized large-size high-denomination issue. It continued the elaborate engraved appearance of nineteenth-century United States paper money and was intended for substantial financial payments. The Smithsonian maintains an example dated 1880 in the National Numismatic Collection. Surviving notes may differ in signatures, serial-number characteristics, Treasury seals, issuing details, and condition, all of which can influence rarity and collector demand.
1882 U.S. $500 Gold Certificate
The Series 1882 $500 Gold Certificate is one of the best-known large-size gold-backed $500 notes. It featured a portrait of Abraham Lincoln and certified that five hundred dollars in gold coin had been deposited in the Treasury of the United States and was repayable to the bearer on demand. The reverse displayed a heraldic eagle and prominent gold-certificate wording. These notes are highly desirable because they combine a large denomination, gold-backed monetary history, an Abraham Lincoln portrait, and ornate nineteenth-century engraving.
1883 to 1889 U.S. $500 Notes
During the remainder of the 1880s, $500 notes continued to exist through Legal Tender, Gold Certificate, and National Bank Note systems. However, not every year represented a completely new $500 series. Different signature combinations and Treasury officials could appear on notes carrying the same main series date. In 1889, legislation required the names of individuals shown on American banknote portraits to be printed below their images, helping establish a design practice that continued on later U.S. currency.
1890 U.S. $500 Treasury or Coin Note
Treasury Notes, commonly called Coin Notes, were introduced in 1890 following legislation requiring the federal government to purchase additional silver bullion. The notes were redeemable under the terms established by the government and were produced in several denominations, including high-value notes. The $500 Treasury Note belongs to one of the rarest categories of American currency, and genuine issued examples are seldom encountered. Collectors should be cautious because proofs, reproductions, replicas, altered notes, and souvenir versions may be incorrectly advertised as genuine circulating Treasury Notes.
1891 U.S. $500 Treasury Note Design
A Series 1891 $500 Treasury Note design is known from proof or archival material, but regular issued examples are extraordinarily difficult to document. This makes the date a specialized area requiring expert authentication. A proof is not the same as a fully issued circulating note, and its value, legal status, production characteristics, and collector classification can differ significantly. Any claimed 1891 $500 Treasury Note should be examined by a recognized professional paper-money authentication and grading service before being purchased or sold.
1892 to 1917 U.S. $500 Currency
Between the early 1890s and 1917, high-denomination American currency continued to be represented by older Legal Tender Notes, National Bank Notes, Gold Certificates, and other Treasury-related issues. Various notes remained available for major banking and commercial settlements, but ordinary Americans rarely used them. During this period, banking systems developed rapidly, and checks increasingly handled transactions that might previously have required bundles of currency. The Federal Reserve Act of 1913 established the Federal Reserve System and prepared the way for a new national class of Federal Reserve Notes.
1918 U.S. $500 Federal Reserve Note
The Series 1918 $500 Federal Reserve Note marked one of the most important developments in the denomination’s history. In 1918, the Federal Reserve began issuing $500, $1,000, $5,000, and $10,000 Federal Reserve Notes, primarily for large financial and interbank transactions. The blue-seal $500 note featured Chief Justice John Marshall on the face. Its reverse displayed an engraved scene titled “DeSoto Discovering the Mississippi in 1541.” The note retained the larger dimensions used before the conversion to modern small-size currency. Surviving 1918 $500 Federal Reserve Notes are highly prized for their size, blue seal, historical artwork, rarity, and association with the early Federal Reserve System.
1919 to 1927 U.S. $500 Notes
No completely redesigned annual $500 bill was introduced for every year from 1919 through 1927. Series 1918 notes and other existing high-denomination currency continued to serve banking and Treasury needs. A printed series year does not always equal the exact production or circulation year, so a note bearing “Series 1918” could remain in use or be delivered after 1918. This distinction is important when preparing a historically accurate year-wise list of U.S. $500 bills.
1928 U.S. $500 Federal Reserve Note
The Series 1928 $500 Federal Reserve Note introduced the familiar small-size format associated with modern American banknotes. It featured President William McKinley on the face and carried a green Treasury seal. The reduction in physical size lowered production costs, simplified handling, and helped standardize U.S. currency designs. The 1928 $500 bill is one of the most recognized high-denomination American notes, although it remains rare compared with ordinary circulating bills.
1929 to 1933 U.S. $500 Notes
During the early small-size currency period, Series 1928 $500 Federal Reserve Notes continued to circulate. Some notes may be associated with different Federal Reserve districts, serial-number blocks, signature combinations, replacement-note indicators, or production varieties. No newly created $500 denomination appeared every year. The United States was also undergoing major banking and economic changes during the Great Depression, which eventually influenced the next major high-denomination series.
1934 U.S. $500 Federal Reserve Note
The Series 1934 $500 Federal Reserve Note continued the William McKinley portrait and green-seal design. It is the type most people picture when discussing a genuine American $500 bill. The face shows McKinley in the center, while the reverse uses a highly ornamental design dominated by the words “Five Hundred Dollars” and large denomination numerals. Series 1934 notes were produced for different Federal Reserve Banks and may be found with different signature combinations, district seals, serial numbers, and later series-letter varieties.
1935 to 1944 U.S. $500 Bill Production Period
Throughout the late 1930s and early 1940s, the Series 1934 family remained the principal small-size $500 Federal Reserve Note. The series date printed on a note does not necessarily mean that every example was physically printed in 1934. Production could continue under an established series designation, with letter changes or signature modifications used when required. These high-denomination notes were mainly used by banks, businesses, government institutions, and individuals conducting very large transactions.
1945 – Final Printing of Genuine U.S. $500 Bills
The year 1945 marks the final printing of genuine U.S. $500 banknotes. The last notes belonged to the established small-size Federal Reserve Note design featuring William McKinley. No newly printed official U.S. $500 note has been produced since that year. This fact is essential when evaluating advertisements for supposed 1950, 1976, 2000, 2025, or 2026 $500 bills. Such dates do not represent newly issued official federal $500 currency.
1946 to 1968 – No New $500 Bills Printed
After demand for high-denomination currency declined, the Federal Reserve discontinued printing $500, $1,000, $5,000, and $10,000 notes. Existing inventories could still be issued when needed, which explains the difference between the last printing date and the later official discontinuation date. During this period, checks, bank transfers, improved accounting systems, and other payment methods increasingly replaced the need to move large amounts of money using individual high-denomination notes.
1969 – Official Discontinuation of the U.S. $500 Bill
On July 14, 1969, the Federal Reserve and the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced the discontinuation of $500, $1,000, $5,000, and $10,000 notes because of limited use. Large-denomination notes returned to Federal Reserve Banks were generally removed from circulation and destroyed. However, genuine surviving examples held by collectors or members of the public were not automatically made worthless. Authentic notes continue to be recognized as legal tender, even though their numismatic market value usually exceeds the amount printed on them.
1970 to 1999 – Collector Currency Only
No new U.S. $500 bills were issued from 1970 through 1999. Existing examples gradually disappeared from commercial circulation as banks returned them to the Federal Reserve. Collectors increasingly recognized the historical importance of surviving Legal Tender Notes, Gold Certificates, National Bank Notes, Treasury Notes, large-size Federal Reserve Notes, and small-size McKinley Federal Reserve Notes. Rarity, condition, seal type, issuing district, signatures, serial number, provenance, and professional grade became major factors in determining collector value.
2000 to 2025 – No Official Modern $500 Bill
The United States did not release any official $500 banknote during the years 2000 through 2025. Products carrying modern dates, gold-colored printing, images of current presidents, the Statue of Liberty, celebrities, or claims such as “Federal Reserve collectible currency” are commonly private novelty products. They may be decorative or collectible as souvenirs, but they are not genuine legal-tender $500 Federal Reserve Notes. Authentic U.S. currency above $100 is no longer available as a new issue from the Treasury, Federal Reserve, or Bureau of Engraving and Printing.
2026 U.S. $500 Dollar Bill Status
As of 2026, there is no newly issued U.S. $500 dollar bill. The highest denomination currently issued for public circulation remains the $100 Federal Reserve Note. Genuine historical $500 notes are still legally valid at face value, but they are normally retained as valuable collectibles rather than spent. Owners should never clean, wash, flatten, tape, laminate, trim, recolor, or attempt to repair an old $500 note, because improper handling can reduce its collectible value. Authentication should consider the paper, engraving, serial number, seal, signatures, dimensions, Federal Reserve district, series designation, alterations, repairs, and overall condition.
🏛️ The Origin and History of the $500 Bill
The $500 bill has a unique place in the history of American currency. It was first issued in the 19th century to support large financial transactions and banking needs. The note features William McKinley, making it easily recognizable among high-denomination bills. Over time, the design of the $500 bill evolved with improved printing techniques and added security features. These bills were mainly used by banks and businesses rather than the general public. In 1969, the Federal Reserve System officially discontinued high-value notes, including the $500 bill, due to low demand and rising concerns about illegal use. Today, the $500 bill is no longer printed but remains legal tender. It is highly valued by collectors, and rare, well-preserved notes can sell for much more than their face value in the numismatic market.
📜 The Early Beginnings
The first known $500 notes date back to the late 18th century, issued by colonial banks and private institutions during the American Revolutionary War. These early notes were typically interest-bearing certificates, not legal tender.
🇺🇸 Official Federal Issuance
The U.S. federal government officially issued $500 bills beginning in 1862. They were used primarily for large financial transactions, interbank transfers, and government payments, rarely seen by the general public.
📅 Timeline of $500 Bill Series in the USA
Here’s a comprehensive list of all officially issued $500 bills by the U.S. government:
| Series Year | Type of Note | Portrait Featured | Notable Features | Rarity Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1862 | Legal Tender Note | N/A | Green color, large-size note | Extremely Rare |
| 1863 | Interest Bearing Note | N/A | Coupon bond, large format | Ultra Rare |
| 1874 | Legal Tender Note | N/A | Red seal | Very Rare |
| 1882 | Gold Certificate | John Marshall | Gold seal, yellow tint | Very Rare |
| 1918 | Federal Reserve Note | John Marshall | Blue seal, large-size | Rare |
| 1928 | Federal Reserve Note | William McKinley | Small-size, green seal | Collectible |
| 1934 | Federal Reserve Note | William McKinley | Most common type | Moderate to Rare |
| 1934-A | Federal Reserve Note | William McKinley | Less common than regular 1934 | Collectible |
👤 Who Is on the $500 Dollar Bill?
The most recognized portrait on the $500 bill is William McKinley, the 25th President of the United States, who appears on both the 1928 and 1934 series.
Earlier issues featured:
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John Marshall (Chief Justice of the U.S.) on large-size notes like the 1882 and 1918 issues.
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Some extremely rare pre-Civil War notes had no portrait at all or displayed allegorical figures.
❌ Discontinuation of the $500 Bill
In 1969, the U.S. Treasury and Federal Reserve officially discontinued all high-denomination bills including the $500, $1,000, $5,000, and $10,000 notes, citing lack of usage in daily commerce.
Although they were never demonetized and are still legal tender, most of these bills have been removed from circulation and are now found only in private collections or museums.
💰 How Much Is a $500 Dollar Bill Worth Today?
The value of a $500 bill can vary significantly based on its condition, series, issuing Federal Reserve Bank, serial number, and rarity.
💵 General Value Range by Series
| Series | Condition | Estimated Value (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1928 (McKinley) | Fine | $1,200 – $2,000 |
| 1928 | Extremely Fine | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| 1934 | Circulated | $800 – $1,500 |
| 1934 | Uncirculated | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| 1934 Star Note | Any | $5,000 – $10,000+ |
| 1882 Gold Certificate | Any | $10,000 – $50,000+ |
| 1918 Federal Reserve Note | Any | $8,000 – $25,000+ |
💡 Star notes, low serial numbers (like 00000001), and rare Federal Reserve Districts can dramatically increase the note's value.
Complete List of US $500 Bill Series (2026 Updated)
The U.S. $500 bill is one of the rarest and most valuable pieces of American paper currency ever issued. First introduced in the late 1800s, the note was mainly used for large financial transactions before electronic banking became common. Most modern collectors recognize the famous small-size $500 bill featuring William McKinley on the front. Although the United States officially discontinued high-denomination notes in 1969, $500 bills remain legal tender today. Their rarity, historical importance, and limited surviving numbers make them highly desirable among currency collectors. The value of a $500 bill depends on the series year, condition, seal type, serial number, and collector demand. Uncirculated examples and rare star notes can sell for thousands of dollars at auctions. The updated 2026 value table below provides a complete overview of major U.S. $500 bill series and estimated collector market prices.
| U.S. $500 Bill Series | Type | Condition | Estimated Value (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1869 Rainbow $500 Note | Legal Tender Note | Fine to VF | $25,000 – $100,000+ |
| 1878 Silver Certificate | Large Size Note | Fine | $10,000 – $40,000 |
| 1918 Federal Reserve Note | Large Size | Very Fine | $8,000 – $25,000 |
| 1928 Federal Reserve Note | Small Size | Circulated | $1,200 – $3,500 |
| 1928 Star Note | Replacement Note | Uncirculated | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| 1934 Federal Reserve Note | Green Seal | Fine to UNC | $1,500 – $5,000 |
| 1934A $500 Bill | Small Size | Uncirculated | $2,000 – $6,500 |
| 1934 Star Note | Replacement Type | Crisp Uncirculated | $7,500 – $25,000 |
| Low Serial Number $500 Bill | Specialty Collectible | High Grade | $10,000 – $50,000+ |
| High Grade Gem $500 Bill | Premium Collector Note | Gem UNC | $5,000 – $20,000+ |
🔍 How to Identify a Real $500 Dollar Bill
To authenticate a $500 bill:
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Look for William McKinley’s portrait for small-size notes.
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Verify the serial number, Federal Reserve Bank seal, and series year.
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Early notes may include John Marshall with a gold or blue seal.
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Watermarks and security threads do not exist on these bills—they predate modern security features.
Use a magnifying glass and compare with verified authentic notes if needed. For complete certainty, have it reviewed by a PCGS or PMG certified currency grader.
📈 Collectibility & Investment Potential
The $500 bill is considered a strong asset in the numismatic community. Its rarity, especially in high grades, gives it solid long-term value retention and growth potential. Notes with:
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Star serial numbers
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Unusual printing errors
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Unique Federal Reserve Bank origins (like Boston or Atlanta)
are particularly attractive for collectors and investors.
🧾 How to Sell or Buy a $500 Bill
If you're looking to buy or sell a $500 bill, here are the best options:
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Auction Houses: Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers
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Currency Dealers: Certified and ANA-registered numismatic dealers
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Online Marketplaces: eBay, but always verify authenticity
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Collector Forums: Paper Money Forum, Coin Community
📚 Interesting Facts About the $500 Bill
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The U.S. hasn’t printed a $500 bill since 1945.
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The 1934 series is the most widely available today.
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Many banks sent these bills back to the Treasury for destruction after 1969.
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A $500 bill with Clara Barton’s signature was once auctioned for over $100,000.
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Only less than 75,000 $500 bills are believed to exist today.
🧠 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is the $500 bill legal tender?
Yes, it is still technically legal tender, but not accepted in regular commercial transactions due to collector value.
Q2. How many $500 bills still exist?
Estimates suggest fewer than 75,000 remain in private hands or museums.
Q3. Can I get a $500 bill at the bank?
No, banks do not carry high-denomination notes. You’ll need to buy from collectors or auctions.
Q4. Is it worth investing in $500 bills?
Yes, especially in uncirculated condition or rare series. They tend to appreciate over time.
📝 Final Thoughts
The $500 US dollar bill is more than just currency—it's a historical artifact, a collector’s gem, and a piece of America’s financial evolution. Whether you’ve inherited one or are thinking of investing, understanding the complete list of series, values, and rarity levels is essential.
With fewer in circulation each year, the demand for $500 bills continues to grow. Secure yours wisely, preserve it properly, and you might hold onto a valuable asset for generations to come.
Meta Title: $500 Dollar Bill Value, History, Rarity & Price Guide 2026
Meta Description: Discover the history, types, printing quantities, rarity and 2026 collector value of U.S. $500 bills from 1862 through the final Federal Reserve issues.
Ultimate FAQ Guide to the $500 Dollar Bill USA: Complete List, History, Value, Printing Quantity & Price Chart
The U.S. $500 dollar bill is one of the most famous high-denomination banknotes in American currency history. Although these notes have not been printed for decades, genuine surviving examples remain highly desirable among paper-money collectors. Depending on the series, condition, Federal Reserve district, seal variety, serial number and rarity, an authentic $500 bill may be worth considerably more than its $500 face value.
The history of the denomination stretches back to the Civil War era. An 1862 $500 Legal Tender Note is documented with a portrait of statesman and Treasury Secretary Albert Gallatin. Later $500 issues appeared in several forms, including Legal Tender Notes, National Bank Notes, Gold Certificates, Treasury Notes and Federal Reserve Notes.
The best-known versions today are the small-size Federal Reserve Notes of Series 1928, 1934 and 1934A bearing a portrait of William McKinley, the 25th president of the United States.
What Is a U.S. $500 Dollar Bill?
A $500 bill is an official high-denomination United States banknote produced for transactions in which carrying hundreds of smaller notes would have been inconvenient. These notes were especially useful to banks, businesses and financial institutions before electronic bank transfers became commonplace.
The U.S. government no longer produces $500 bills. The Bureau of Engraving and Printing states that the $500, $1,000, $5,000 and $10,000 denominations were last printed in 1945. On July 14, 1969, the Treasury Department and Federal Reserve announced that these denominations would be discontinued because they were no longer widely needed.
When Was the First $500 Bill Issued?
Federal $500 paper money can be traced to 1862, during the Civil War. The National Museum of American History preserves an example of an 1862 $500 Legal Tender Note featuring Albert Gallatin. This makes the denomination considerably older than the Federal Reserve System itself, which was established decades later.
Collectors should therefore avoid the common misconception that every $500 bill carries William McKinley. Portraits and designs changed substantially over the denomination's long history.
Who Is on the $500 Dollar Bill?
For most collectors, the answer is William McKinley because he appears on the familiar small-size Federal Reserve $500 notes beginning with Series 1928. A Smithsonian example of the Series 1928 $500 Federal Reserve Note confirms McKinley's portrait on the face.
However, older notes can feature different historical figures. The large-size Series 1918 $500 Federal Reserve Note, for example, displays Chief Justice John Marshall, while its reverse depicts De Soto discovering the Mississippi.
Complete Overview of Major U.S. $500 Bill Types
The denomination appeared across several important classes of American paper currency. Civil War-era Legal Tender Notes were followed by later Legal Tender issues and high-denomination National Bank Notes. Gold Certificates represented another important category, while Treasury or Coin Notes also contributed to the denomination's nineteenth-century history.
During the Federal Reserve era, the denomination appeared as large-size Federal Reserve Notes and later in the standardized small-size format. For modern collectors, Series 1928, Series 1934 and Series 1934A Federal Reserve Notes are among the most frequently encountered collectible $500 bills.
$500 Bill Printing Quantity and “Mintage”
Banknotes technically have printing quantities or production totals, rather than coin “mintage.” Another important distinction is that the number printed is not the same as the number surviving today. Many high-denomination notes were returned to banks and destroyed, leaving only a fraction available to collectors.
| $500 Issue | Reported Printing Quantity | Collector Note |
|---|---|---|
| Series 1928 Federal Reserve Notes | About 1,689,096 regular notes | Issued through all 12 Federal Reserve districts |
| Series 1928 FRN Star Notes | 10,800 reported | Extremely scarce replacement notes |
| Series 1928 $500 Gold Certificate | 420,000 regular notes reported | Far fewer survive today |
| Series 1928 Gold Certificate Stars | 4,000 reported printed | No confirmed surviving examples in the cited census |
| Series 1928 Chicago FRN | 573,600 | One of the larger district printings |
| Series 1928 Richmond FRN | 84,720 | Lower district printing |
| Series 1928 San Francisco FRN | 64,080 | Scarcer than several larger districts |
Specialized currency census data reports 10,800 Series 1928 $500 Federal Reserve replacement notes and 420,000 regular Series 1928 $500 Gold Certificates. District figures also varied widely, illustrating why collectors evaluate individual Federal Reserve districts rather than looking only at the series year.
How Much Is a $500 Bill Worth in 2026?
There is no single value for every $500 note. Current collector guides show broad ranges because the same basic denomination may exist in heavily circulated condition, premium uncirculated grades, rare districts, replacement-note varieties and exceptional serial-number combinations.
Current guide figures for small-size Federal Reserve $500 notes place typical Series 1928 examples broadly around $1,200 to $14,000, while individual districts can reach higher published guide levels. Series 1934 notes show a broad guide range around $1,000 to $12,000, while Series 1934A examples span approximately $800 to $10,000 depending on variety and grade. Exceptional star notes and rare district combinations can exceed the ordinary ranges substantially.
These figures should be viewed as collector-market references rather than guaranteed selling prices. Auction demand, certification, eye appeal and the specific Friedberg variety can significantly change a note's realized price.
Why Are Some $500 Bills Worth More Than Others?
Condition is one of the strongest value factors. A note with crisp paper, strong color, original surfaces and minimal handling will generally command more than an example with heavy folds, stains, tears or repairs.
Rarity is equally important. Certain Federal Reserve districts had lower production totals, and some replacement notes survive in exceptionally small numbers. Seal color, serial-number patterns and grading also matter. A professionally certified note with a desirable grade may be easier for buyers to evaluate than an uncertified example.
Age alone does not determine value. Two $500 notes from the same general period can have dramatically different prices because of their series, signature combination, issuing district or survival rate.
What Is a $500 Star Note?
A star note is a replacement banknote produced to substitute for a note rejected during the currency-production process. Instead of following the normal serial-number format, these replacements include a star symbol.
High-denomination replacement notes are especially attractive to specialists because their production totals can be much lower than those of ordinary notes. Series 1928 $500 Federal Reserve star notes are particularly scarce, with a specialized census reporting only 10,800 originally printed and very few confirmed survivors.
Is a $500 Bill Still Legal Tender?
Yes. Genuine U.S. $500 bills remain legal tender even though they are no longer produced or routinely issued. Official federal sources state that high-denomination notes remain legal tender, although most surviving examples are now held by collectors and dealers rather than used in normal commerce.
Spending one for $500 would usually make little financial sense because an authentic collectible example can carry a substantial numismatic premium.
Why Was the $500 Bill Discontinued?
By the mid-twentieth century, banking technology had greatly reduced the practical need for extremely large banknotes. Electronic and institutional transfer systems could move large amounts of money more efficiently than bundles of high-denomination currency.
The government therefore stopped printing these denominations after 1945 and formally announced their discontinuation in 1969 because of lack of use.
How Can You Tell Whether a $500 Bill Is Genuine?
Authentication should consider the correct portrait, note size, engraving quality, serial-number format, Federal Reserve district, Treasury and Federal Reserve seals, signatures and paper characteristics appropriate to the specific series.
Collectors should be especially cautious with reproductions, souvenir notes and altered currency. Because authentic $500 notes can be valuable, professional authentication and grading can be worthwhile when purchasing or selling an expensive example.
Is There a 2026 U.S. $500 Bill?
No official Series 2026 $500 Federal Reserve Note is being issued. The Federal Reserve currently issues denominations from $1 through $100, and the historic denominations above $100 remain discontinued.
Therefore, a newly produced item advertised as a “2026 $500 bill” should not automatically be treated as official U.S. currency. It may instead be novelty money, a fantasy design, souvenir currency or another privately produced collectible.
Is a $500 Bill a Good Collectible?
The $500 denomination has several features that make it attractive to paper-money enthusiasts: historical importance, limited surviving supply, distinctive high-denomination status and multiple collectible series and varieties.
However, collectible currency should not be treated as having guaranteed investment returns. Prices can rise or fall with collector demand, grade, rarity and broader market conditions. Buyers should focus on authentication, accurate grading, documented rarity and realistic comparable sales rather than assuming every old $500 note will appreciate.
Final Summary: U.S. $500 Dollar Bill Value and History
The American $500 bill represents more than a century of U.S. monetary history. Federal examples date to the 1862 Legal Tender era, and subsequent issues included several important classes of currency before the denomination entered the Federal Reserve period. The spectacular Series 1918 Federal Reserve Note featured John Marshall, while the better-known small-size Series 1928, 1934 and 1934A Federal Reserve Notes feature William McKinley.
High-denomination notes were last printed in 1945 and officially discontinued in 1969, but genuine survivors remain legal tender. No new official $500 bill was issued between 1970 and 2026.
For collectors, the value of a $500 bill depends on much more than its face value. Series, Federal Reserve district, printing quantity, surviving population, condition, star-note status, serial number and professional grade can all affect market demand. Common small-size examples may trade in the low thousands of dollars, while scarcer varieties, premium grades and exceptional replacement notes can command considerably more.
For anyone studying historic U.S. paper money, the $500 bill remains one of the most recognizable links between nineteenth-century federal currency, early Federal Reserve banking and today's specialized numismatic market.
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