The U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) officially announced the launch of the new 5 dollar bill, which is part of the 2021 Series and has already aroused great interest among collectors and numismatic enthusiasts. The main reason is its high collector’s value, as there are those who pay up to USD 335 for them in the specialized market.
What is the new 5 USD bill like?
This redesign stands out for including, for the first time in history, the signatures of two prominent women:
- Janet L. Yellen, the first female U.S. Treasury Secretary.
- Lynn Malerba, the first Native American and woman to serve as U.S. Treasurer, as well as the 18th life chief of the Mohegan Tribe.
Both figures bring historical symbolism to the $5 bill, which entered circulation in August 2024. The innovative nature of this design not only celebrates diversity, but underscores the pivotal role of both women in U.S. politics and culture.
Why are collectors paying up to USD 335?
The new Series 2021 $5 bill is issued in uncut sheets, a format that does not affect the circulation of the old bills (which are still valid). However, these uncut sheets have become highly sought after by collectors, which increases their value.
- 50 bills: USD 335
- 25 bills: USD 178
- 20 bills: USD 149
- 10 bills: USD 86
- 5 bills: USD 50,50
Those who decide to acquire these specimens face the dilemma of not cutting the sheets in order to preserve and possibly increase the value of the collection. At the same time, they must keep in mind that, by separating the banknotes, they would lose much of their exclusivity as a collectible.
What will happen to the old banknotes?
The launch of the 2021 series does not in any way invalidate the older 5 USD issues, which will continue to circulate as legal tender without any problems. Older bills will retain their face value and can continue to be used in everyday transactions.
The fact that versions with the signatures of Yellen and Malerba are now available expands the range of options for collectors, but does not replace the older bills. Both the “old” and the new ones continue to be valid in the United States and other countries that accept them.
A design with historical value
The moment when Janet Yellen and Lynn Malerba affixed their signatures on the new $1 and $5 bills was a milestone. According to official statements, both authorities stressed the relevance of including, for the first time, the signatures of two women on U.S. paper money.
In addition, Yellen joked at the time about the handwriting of some of her predecessors, acknowledging that she practiced her signature to make it clear and recognizable. Lynn Malerba, meanwhile, called the occasion of seeing two female signatures and the Native American presence reflected on U.S. currency “truly momentous.”
Why might its price increase in the future?
Although these new $5 USD issues began circulating relatively recently, experience with other special issues indicates that their value could increase over the years. The fact that these are uncut sheets and that this is the first time the signatures of two women have appeared on a U.S. banknote adds a historical component that many collectors are looking for in the long run. You can visit the official web of United States Mint.
For those interested in numismatics, this issue represents an excellent opportunity to acquire an object with great symbolic value and potential for future appreciation, either because of its relatively limited mintage or because of the interest it arouses among specialists and the general public.
If you like numismatics and want to see more articles about coins and banknotes that may have value in the market, remember that you can see more news about the latest developments in this digital information website.
