Are older $100 bills worth more?

Are Older $100 Bills Worth More?

Most of us treat a $100 bill just like any other—something to spend, save, or stash away. But for collectors, certain older versions of the bill can be worth more than their face value. Before 1996, U.S. $100 bills featured a smaller portrait of Benjamin Franklin, framed in an oval reminiscent of George Washington’s look on the $1 note. These pre-1996 designs are no longer in wide circulation, making surviving examples a bit harder to come by.

Because of their age and limited numbers, these older notes have become collectible. On platforms like eBay, they often sell for between $120 and $135, sometimes even more depending on condition and serial numbers. It’s not a fortune, but it’s a nice premium over face value for something most people would overlook.

What makes them valuable? It’s not just age—it’s scarcity. After 1996, the Treasury redesigned the $100 bill to include enhanced security features and a larger portrait of Franklin, making the older versions obsolete for everyday use. As a result, fewer of the older bills remain in good condition, which increases their appeal to collectors.

Still, not every pre-1996 $100 bill is a jackpot. Most only fetch a modest premium unless they’re in pristine condition or have unusual serial numbers—like repeating digits or low numbers (e.g., 000001). So if you’ve got an old hundred tucked away, it’s worth checking the date and condition before spending it. You might be holding onto more than just spending money.