In a truly remarkable turn of events, a simple Bible cleaning session turned into a life-changing discovery for a Pennsylvania family. While clearing out a relative’s attic, they stumbled upon a 1928 $1,000 Federal Reserve Note tucked neatly between the pages of an old family Bible. The vintage bill, which many believed was long out of circulation, is now valued at over $1 million by collectors due to its exceptional rarity, historical significance, and pristine condition.
This incident has reignited public fascination with rare currency and the hidden value that can be found in the most unexpected places. But what exactly makes the 1928 $1,000 bill so valuable—and how can you tell if one is worth a fortune?
The Hidden Treasure: How a Bible Cleaning Led to a Historic Find
While cleaning out their late grandfather’s belongings, the Henderson family found a worn leather Bible dating back to the 1930s. Between its aged pages was a crisp, uncirculated 1928 $1,000 bill bearing the image of President Grover Cleveland. At first mistaken for an old $10 note, the family soon realized the treasure they held after a quick search online.
Experts were stunned not only by the note’s preservation but also by the fact that it had not been altered or degraded by time. Because $1,000 bills were rarely used in regular transactions and were primarily circulated between banks, finding one in such good condition is nearly unheard of.
Why the 1928 $1,000 Bill Is So Rare and Valuable
The 1928 series of $1,000 notes were the first small-sized versions issued by the U.S. Treasury. They marked a shift in design and format and were primarily used for large financial transactions between banks. Most were destroyed when the government discontinued high-denomination bills in 1969.
Here’s why this specific bill is worth so much today:
- Only a limited number of 1928 $1,000 notes were printed
- Most were taken out of circulation and destroyed
- The bill found was in uncirculated, mint condition
- It has a low serial number and strong printing
- The historical context adds extra collector value
- Demand for high-denomination vintage currency is rising
- Unique storage (in a Bible) preserved the paper quality
- It is certified and authenticated by grading agencies
Current Market Value of 1928 $1,000 Bills
Rare bill collectors and auction houses are constantly on the lookout for large denomination notes. Due to inflation and historical interest, their values have skyrocketed in recent years. Below is a table of how the value of a 1928 $1,000 bill varies based on condition and serial number.
Estimated Value Table by Grade and Features
| Condition | Serial Type | Estimated Value (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Circulated | Regular | $25,000 – $60,000 |
| Very Fine | Star Note | $75,000 – $150,000 |
| Extremely Fine | Low Serial Number | $200,000 – $400,000 |
| AU (Almost Unc) | Unique Signatures | $450,000 – $700,000 |
| Uncirculated | Low Serial + Star | $900,000 – $1.2 Million |
| Graded MS-65 | Special Print Batch | $1,000,000+ |
| Damaged | Torn/Ink Marked | $8,000 – $20,000 |
Tips to Identify High-Value Currency in Your Home
Don’t underestimate what might be hiding in your attic, garage, or family heirlooms. Many rare currency pieces are unknowingly stored away for generations. Here’s what to check:
- Inspect old books, diaries, and documents—hidden storage is common
- Look for serial number patterns (low numbers, stars, ladders)
- Compare your bill to verified images online for design matches
- Note the seal color—red, blue, and green seals can indicate rarity
- Check the bill size—pre-1929 bills are larger than modern ones
- Consult a professional grading service like PCGS or PMG
- Avoid handling old currency with bare hands—use gloves
- Never clean or iron old bills—it can destroy collector value
Other Historic Finds of Valuable Currency in the U.S.
This isn’t the first time someone struck gold with old currency. Over the years, collectors and average citizens alike have stumbled upon bills worth far more than their face value.
Examples of Unexpected Currency Discoveries
| Discovery Location | Note Type | Found Value | Auction Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey attic | 1890 $1,000 Treasury Note | $1,000 | $2.6 million |
| Texas barn | Series 1934 $500 Note | $500 | $150,000 |
| Grandma’s photo album | 1928 $10,000 Bill | $10,000 | $1.1 million |
| Estate sale in Arizona | Error print $20 Bill | $20 | $35,000 |
| Abandoned locker (LA) | 1934 $5,000 Note | $5,000 | $700,000 |
Full Description of the 1928 $1,000 Bill Found in Bible
The bill discovered was a 1928 Federal Reserve Note printed for use between financial institutions. Below is a detailed breakdown of its physical and historical characteristics:
Key Features of the Rare $1,000 Bill
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Series | 1928 |
| Denomination | $1,000 |
| Portrait | Grover Cleveland (22nd & 24th U.S. President) |
| Issuing Authority | U.S. Federal Reserve |
| Serial Number | A00001598A (Low serial – adds value) |
| Paper Type | Cotton and linen blend |
| Color Scheme | Green seal and serial numbers, black main print |
| Size | 6.14 x 2.61 inches |
| Condition | Uncirculated/Mint (graded MS-65) |
| Market Value (2025) | Estimated between $850,000 to $1.2 million |
What Should You Do If You Find a Rare Bill?
If you think you’ve discovered a rare note like the 1928 $1,000 bill, take the following steps:
- Do not spend it – The collector value far exceeds its printed value.
- Store it safely – Use a currency sleeve or acid-free paper.
- Research the serial number and series – Certain years and patterns are more valuable.
- Contact a certified currency appraiser – Get a professional opinion.
- Consider grading – Third-party grading improves resale value.
- Approach auction houses – Reputable houses can help fetch the best price.
The Bible discovery of a 1928 $1,000 bill has become one of the most exciting stories in the rare currency world in 2025. It proves that sometimes, the greatest treasures are not buried in the ground—but hidden in plain sight within the pages of your family’s history. As interest in collectible currency continues to rise, stories like this remind us that ordinary objects may hold extraordinary value.
FAQs About the 1928 $1,000 Bill Discovery
Q1: How many 1928 $1,000 bills still exist?
Only a few hundred are known to survive today, and even fewer are in uncirculated condition.
Q2: Is it legal to own a $1,000 bill in the U.S.?
Yes. High-denomination bills like the $1,000 note are legal to own and collect, though they are no longer printed.
Q3: Can I spend a $1,000 bill at a store?
Technically, yes—it’s legal tender. But you’d be losing its collector value by spending it.
Q4: How do I check if my old bill is valuable?
Look at the year, serial number, seal color, and condition. If it’s from 1928 or earlier and in good condition, it may be worth something.
Q5: What grading services are best for rare currency?
Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and Paper Money Guaranty (PMG) are the most trusted.
Q6: Where can I sell my rare currency?
You can sell it through reputable auction houses, private dealers, or online marketplaces specializing in collectible money.
Q7: Does serial number affect the bill’s value?
Yes—low numbers, repeating numbers, or star notes are more desirable and often command higher prices.
