What Is The Value Of A 1934 Hawaii $20 Dollar Bill?

Old paper money can be quite valuable to collectors, especially if the bills are rare or in pristine condition. One banknote that often garners interest is the 1934 series $20 Hawaii note.

These beautiful notes featuring island scenery were only printed for a couple of years, making them difficult to find today. If you happen to have one of these $20 Hawaii bills from 1934 tucked away, you may be wondering – what is it worth?

In short, a 1934 Hawaii $20 dollar bill in average circulated condition is worth around $60-70. Bills in uncirculated condition can sell for up to $200-300. However, there are a number of factors that affect value, including seal type, signature combination and overall condition.

Background on 1934 Hawaii Currency

The 1934 Hawaii $20 Dollar Bill is a unique and highly sought-after piece of currency for collectors and enthusiasts.

This particular series of notes holds historical significance due to its connection to Hawaii’s unique status as a territory of the United States during that time period.

Creation of the Hawaii overprint series

In 1934, the U.S. government introduced a special series of currency known as the Hawaii overprint. These notes were issued specifically for use in the Hawaiian Islands, which were still a territory at the time.

The purpose of the overprint was to deter potential counterfeiting and to signify that the currency was intended for use only in Hawaii.

As a result, the 1934 Hawaii $20 Dollar Bill features the words “HAWAII” and “TWENTY DOLLARS” prominently displayed on the front and back of the note.

The overprint series was only produced for a brief period of time, from July 1934 to January 1935, making these notes relatively rare compared to other currency from the same era. The limited production timeframe adds to their appeal and value among collectors.

Description of the $20 Hawaii note design

The design of the 1934 Hawaii $20 Dollar Bill is both distinctive and visually appealing.

The front of the note features a portrait of President Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the United States.

The back of the note showcases a stunning vignette of Hawaii’s famous Kilauea volcano erupting, surrounded by lush palm trees and a tropical landscape.

This unique design, combined with the overprint stating “HAWAII,” makes the 1934 Hawaii $20 Dollar Bill an intriguing piece of currency for collectors.

Its historical significance, limited production, and visually appealing design contribute to its value in the numismatic market.

Determining the Value of 1934 $20 Hawaii Notes

When it comes to determining the value of a 1934 Hawaii $20 dollar bill, there are several factors to consider.

These factors include the condition of the bill, the signature combinations, whether it is a star note or a standard note, and any other unique attributes the bill may have.

Condition

The condition of a 1934 Hawaii $20 dollar bill plays a significant role in determining its value.

Bills in uncirculated condition, meaning they have never been used and are in pristine condition, will typically fetch a higher price. On the other hand, bills that have been heavily circulated and show signs of wear and tear may have a lower value.

It’s important to carefully examine the bill for any damage, such as stains, tears, or writing, as these factors can also affect its value.

Signature Combinations

The signature combinations on the 1934 Hawaii $20 dollar bill can also impact its value.

These bills were issued with two different signature combinations: Julian/Morgenthau and Julian/Snyder.

The Julian/Morgenthau combination is generally considered to be more rare and valuable, as it was only used for a short period of time. Bills with this particular combination may command a higher price among collectors.

Star Notes vs Standard

Star notes are replacement notes that were printed in case of errors or damaged bills. These notes can be identified by a star symbol at the end of the serial number.

In general, star notes tend to be more valuable than standard notes, as they are less common and often sought after by collectors. However, the rarity and demand for a specific star note can also affect its value.

Other Unique Attributes

In addition to the condition, signature combinations, and star notes, there may be other unique attributes that can affect the value of a 1934 Hawaii $20 dollar bill.

These attributes could include printing errors, misalignments, or any other distinctive characteristics that make the bill stand out. It’s important to thoroughly research and examine the bill to determine if it possesses any of these unique qualities that could potentially increase its value.

When it comes to determining the value of a 1934 Hawaii $20 dollar bill, it’s crucial to take into account all of these factors. Consulting with a reputable currency dealer or collector can also provide valuable insights and help you assess the true worth of your bill.

Remember, the value of these bills can vary greatly based on market conditions and collector demand, so staying informed and keeping up with the latest trends is key.

How to Sell Your 1934 Hawaii $20 Bill

If you are looking to sell your 1934 Hawaii $20 bill, there are a few things you should consider to get the best value for your item.

Here are some helpful tips to guide you through the selling process.

Selling locally vs online auction

When it comes to selling your 1934 Hawaii $20 bill, you have a couple of options.

One option is to sell it locally, either through a coin shop or by advertising in local classifieds. This can be a convenient option if you prefer face-to-face transactions and want to avoid the hassle of shipping.

Another option is to sell your bill through an online auction platform, such as eBay. This can potentially reach a larger audience of collectors and increase your chances of getting a higher price.

However, keep in mind that there may be fees associated with using these platforms and you will need to factor in the cost of shipping.

Using a reputable dealer

If you are not comfortable selling your 1934 Hawaii $20 bill on your own, you may consider working with a reputable dealer.

A dealer can help you navigate the selling process and ensure that you get a fair price for your item.

They have the expertise and knowledge to accurately assess the value of your bill and can provide you with guidance on the best selling strategy.

When choosing a dealer, it is important to do your research and select someone with a good reputation in the numismatic community.

Look for dealers who are members of professional organizations, such as the American Numismatic Association, as this can be a sign of their credibility.

Authentication and grading

Before selling your 1934 Hawaii $20 bill, it is essential to have it authenticated and graded. Authentication ensures that your bill is genuine and not a counterfeit, while grading assesses the condition of the bill.

There are professional grading services, such as the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), that can provide you with an unbiased assessment of your bill’s condition.

This can significantly impact its value, as collectors often prefer bills that are in better condition.

It is important to note that authentication and grading services may charge a fee for their services, but having your bill authenticated and graded by a reputable organization can increase buyer confidence and potentially lead to a higher selling price.

Selling a 1934 Hawaii $20 bill can be an exciting endeavor, and by following these tips, you can maximize the value of your item and ensure a successful sale.

Conclusion

The 1934 series $20 Hawaii note is one of the more sought-after banknotes from this special issue intended for the islands.

With only a small number printed and many uncirculated examples destroyed, these bills can be difficult to find, especially in top condition.

Values range widely based on condition and signature type, but most examples fall in the $60-300 range.

For collectors specializing in Hawaii currency or U.S. small size type notes, the 1934 $20 represents an important and scarce addition.

Even non-collectors may be surprised at the value hiding in an old Hawaii bill inherited from family or discovered while sorting through belongings.

With attention to condition and signatures,1934 Hawaii $20 dollar bills can fetch nice premiums when sold to eager collectors.

Sharing is caring!