Imagine paying for gas and getting a $2 bill in your change — only to discover it’s worth over $2.3 million.
This isn’t a fantasy. The 1890 Grand Watermelon Note is one of the most valuable U.S. currency notes ever sold, fetching an incredible $2.349 million at auction.
While most $2 bills are worth just their face value, this rare note is a collector’s dream — and some could still be out there in wallets, cash registers, or tucked away in forgotten drawers.
Why It’s Called the Grand Watermelon Note
The nickname comes from its striking design. On the back, the bill has large, green zeros that look just like watermelon slices — a detail that has fascinated collectors for decades.
Only a few hundred were printed in the late 1800s, and even fewer exist today. Back then, $2 was a lot of money, so many were saved as keepsakes, meaning some could still be hidden in old collections or estate boxes.
How to Identify a Million-Dollar $2 Bill
If you think you might have one, here’s what to check:
- Year: Look for 1890 on the front.
- Back Design: Large green zeros resembling watermelons.
- Seal: A red Treasury seal, unlike modern green ones.
- Condition: The better the condition (no tears, folds, or heavy wear), the more valuable it is.
1890 Grand Watermelon vs. Modern $2 Bills
| Feature | 1890 Grand Watermelon | Modern $2 Bill |
|---|---|---|
| Year | 1890 | 1976 or later |
| Back Design | Green “watermelon” zeros | Simple design |
| Treasury Seal | Red | Green |
| Potential Value | Up to $2.349M | $2 |
Could One Be in Your Change?
It sounds impossible, but rare $2 bills do occasionally surface in everyday transactions.
People often keep $2 bills because they’re unusual, but over time, older and rarer versions sometimes get mixed in with modern currency.
Places you might find one:
- Small store or gas station change
- Bank cash rolls
- Estate sales or auctions
- Old family stashes
What to Do If You Find a Grand Watermelon Note
- Handle it carefully — no folding or pressing.
- Get it verified by a reputable grading service like PCGS or PMG.
- Avoid cleaning — cleaning can destroy collector value.
- Sell through trusted sources such as major coin and currency auction houses.
A well-preserved note could be worth hundreds of thousands — or even millions.
The Bottom Line — Check Your $2 Bills
The 1890 Grand Watermelon $2 bill is more than money — it’s a rare piece of American history.
Next time you get a $2 bill, don’t dismiss it. That simple piece of paper could be your ticket to a $2.3 million payday.
So check your wallet, search your drawers, and maybe even ask your grandparents — your next gas station stop could change your life.