What is the value of a Confederate dollar bill?
Typical Values by Condition and Type
Confederate currency was issued from 1861 to 1864 in many denominations and designs. The most common notes, like the 1864 $10 and $20 bills, often sell for $10 to $40 in well-circulated condition. Uncirculated examples of the same notes can reach $100 to $300.
Rarer issues, such as the 1861 $50 or the 1864 $500, can be worth $200 to $1,000 or more depending on condition. Notes with famous signatures or low serial numbers may also bring a premium.
- 1864 $10: $10–$40 circulated, $100–$300 uncirculated
- 1864 $20: $15–$50 circulated, $150–$400 uncirculated
- 1861 $50: $200–$800 circulated, $1,000+ uncirculated
- 1864 $500: $300–$1,000 circulated, $2,000+ uncirculated
What Drives the Value
Condition is the biggest factor. Notes with tears, stains, or heavy folds are worth much less than crisp, unfolded examples. Rarity of the specific issue and serial number also matters.
Collector demand for Confederate currency is steady but not as high as for U.S. federal notes. Notes with historical significance, like those printed in Richmond or with handwritten signatures, can attract more interest.
Common mistakes
- Assuming all Confederate bills are rare and valuable—most are common and worth less than $50.
- Believing that any old bill automatically gains value with age; condition and rarity matter far more.
- Confusing Confederate notes with modern U.S. currency or with worthless reproductions.
