$1000 Bill Value Guide: Grover Cleveland 1928 & Woodrow Wilson 1934

The $1000 Bill’s Origins and Purpose

The $1000 bill was first introduced in the 1928 series, showcasing President Grover Cleveland on the front and allegorical imagery on the back. These large-denomination notes weren’t for everyday spending—they were primarily created for significant financial transactions between Federal Reserve Banks. Issued by the U.S. Treasury, their main function was to simplify high-value transfers within the banking system.

Historical Background and Circulation Changes

The original 1928 series honored President Grover Cleveland, but by 1934, a new version featured President Woodrow Wilson, signifying a shift in political acknowledgment. Though both versions served the banking sector, public use was never intended. In 1969, the government discontinued the circulation of these high-value bills, yet they continue to attract collectors due to their limited numbers and historical context.

Collector Demand and Value Considerations

Collectors place significant value on these notes because of their rarity and rich history. The price of a $1000 bill depends on its condition, the issue year, and any unique printing characteristics. Collectors often use coin and note value guides or track auction listings to estimate the bill’s current market worth accurately.

Is There a $1000 Dollar Note?

People frequently ask whether a $1000 dollar bill exists. These high-value notes, including $500 and $1000 bills, were indeed real and circulated, though mainly for bank-to-bank transactions. Most Americans never encountered them in daily life. The U.S. Treasury ceased printing notes above $100 in 1945 and formally removed them from circulation in 1969, although they remain legal tender.

Despite being discontinued, collectors still search for original $1000 notes. Queries like “do they still make a $1000 bill?” arise often, but the answer is no. What you may see today are replicas or commemorative items with no actual face value. If you’re curious about rare currency, it helps to explore topics like the Value of Paper Money Errors for insights.

Who Is on the $1000 Dollar Bill?

Curiosity about the $1000 bill often includes questions like “who’s on the $1000 dollar bill?” or “who was featured?” The 1928 version displayed Grover Cleveland, designed with intricate engravings and a dark-green seal. By 1934, Woodrow Wilson’s portrait took his place, paired with a lighter green seal—adding new historical relevance to the series.

Collectors distinguish between these series based on the president featured. The 1928 Grover Cleveland bill is older and generally scarcer, while the 1934 Woodrow Wilson note is somewhat more common but still valuable in high grades. For those exploring rare bills and their design evolution, both figures represent key points in monetary history.

How Much Is a $1000 Dollar Bill Worth Today?

Many collectors ask how much a $1000 dollar bill is worth today. A 1928 Grover Cleveland bill in average condition can sell for about $1,200 to $1,500. When uncirculated and professionally graded, prices can soar between $3,000 and $5,000 or more. Rare star notes and well-preserved examples fetch even higher amounts.

For the 1934 series featuring Woodrow Wilson, notes in circulated condition typically begin around $1,100–$1,300. In uncirculated condition, prices range between $2,500 and $4,000. Exceptional examples with rare serial numbers or star symbols can reach values exceeding $10,000. Collectors use auction data and price charts to determine each note’s current worth.

Year | Condition | Approx. Value
1928 | Fine | $2,500–$4,000
1934 | Unc. | $5,000–$12,000

Rare and Error Varieties in $1000 Bills

Mismatched Serials

A rare error occurs when the serial number prefix on the left differs from the right. These mismatched serial numbers boost a bill’s value because they reflect a printing mistake. Hold your bill to the light to examine ink density, and use magnification to spot alignment issues.

Misprints or Ink Smudges

Another rare form includes misprints like ink smears across the portrait or serial numbers. These flaws reduce design clarity but increase collector interest. Smudged notes often carry auction premiums due to their uniqueness.

Low or Fancy Serial Numbers

Bills featuring low numbers like “00000001” or fancy sequences like “1234321” are particularly valuable. Serial patterns such as palindromes or ladders add aesthetic appeal and rarity, often leading to high auction prices.

1928 vs. 1934: Comparing the Two Main Types

The 1928 and 1934 issues differ notably in both design and usage. The 1928 note, marked “Series 1928,” features Grover Cleveland and a gold seal, while the 1934 note displays Woodrow Wilson and a green seal. The older 1928 bills were less widely circulated, adding to their scarcity.

Collectors tend to value the 1928 series higher due to its smaller surviving population. However, the 1934 version, being more available, still commands strong interest—especially in uncirculated condition. Each version tells its own story in the broader history of U.S. currency.

Feature | 1928 Series | 1934 Series
Portrait | Grover Cleveland | Woodrow Wilson
Seal Type | Gold | Green
Circulation | Limited | Broad institutional use

When Was the $1000 Bill Discontinued?

The U.S. Treasury officially pulled the $1000 bill from circulation in 1969, though it had already become rare in everyday life long before that. These notes were originally issued for bank transfers and never intended for general public use, which is why many people today are surprised to learn they ever existed.

While no longer produced, they remain legal tender. Collectors frequently verify their authenticity through design features, watermark presence, and serial consistency. Once electronic payments became more common, the need for such large bills diminished, leading to their eventual phase-out. Today, they serve as valuable collector items.

Modern Fakes and Novelty $1000 Bills

Today’s market is filled with imitation $1000 bills, like the “Trump 1000 dollar bill” or gold-plated novelty versions. These are not legal tender and often confuse the untrained eye. Some listings even advertise ridiculous items like a “100000000000000000000 dollar bill,” which are pure fantasy.

Authentic notes show high-quality printing, watermarks, and consistent textures. Be cautious of paper that feels flimsy or lacks raised ink on the portrait. Genuine U.S. $1000 bills always come with Federal Reserve seals and engraved features, whereas replicas tend to feature celebrities or decorative themes with shiny inks.

Can You Still Buy or Sell a $1000 Dollar Note?

Yes, you can still buy or sell authentic $1000 bills through auctions or currency dealers. Reputable listings clearly state the note’s series, include high-resolution images, and often indicate grading. Before buying, check whether the note features Grover Cleveland or Woodrow Wilson, and verify authenticity.

Collectors focus on serial numbers, unique printing, and signatures when evaluating value. Storing your note in protective sleeves and consulting professional graders can help preserve its condition. Demand for top-tier examples remains strong among seasoned and new collectors alike, making these notes a desirable addition to any rare currency portfolio.

Final Thoughts on Owning a $1000 Note

Many collectors wonder whether a $1000 bill is worth anything, especially if discovered in an inheritance or old collection. The first step is confirming authenticity using watermark, serial number, and paper texture checks. After that, condition grading becomes the main factor in determining value.

While the Federal Reserve no longer produces these notes, their rarity and historical significance make them highly sought-after. Crisp, uncirculated bills bring the highest prices. To better understand rare paper currency and gain expert tips, consider exploring guides like What Is My Penny Worth?

FAQs