The Rarity of Half Dollars and $2 Bills in the United States

As a coin collector, I often find myself asking local banks for any interesting coins they may have received. Recently, a local bank had a supply of rolled half dollar coins, which sparked my interest and led me to search through them for coins that could fit my collection. Despite finding a few 'keepers,' the circulation of half dollars is not very common, and many people have never even seen one.

Uncommon Sight

From my experience, half dollar coins and $2 bills are not very common in circulation. I can’t recall the last time I saw a half dollar coin in change or received one in a transaction. Similarly, $2 bills are also relatively uncommon and have not been as popular in recent years due to practical reasons and changes in currency design.

Why $2 Bills Aren't Common

The $2 bill, featuring the portrait of President Thomas Jefferson, has not been very popular since its introduction. Interestingly, $2 bills do seem to be more common in certain areas, such as Charlottesville, Virginia, which is where Thomas Jefferson's plantation is located. During a visit to a local McDonald's in Charlottesville, both the author and the reader received $2 bills as change, suggesting a possible local fascination with the denomination.

Rarest of All: One Dollar Coins

One dollar coins, if encountered, are even more rare. My grandfather, who worked in Cananea, Mexico, near the U.S. border, once shared a story about the lack of familiarity with one dollar coins in the United States. He told me that when trying to pay for gas with a one dollar coin, the attendant refused to accept it because they had never seen one before. This anecdote highlights the rarity of these coins in common transactions.

Collecting Interests

If you come across a half dollar coin or a one dollar coin, it's likely that they hold some value due to their rarity. In some cases, individuals might want to sell these coins on online platforms like eBay, where collectors can offer a premium for such rare items. While $2 bills may not be as sought after, they can still have value in the collector's market.

Conclusion

The circulation of half dollars and $2 bills in the United States is limited, with many people having never even seen one of these coins. These denominations have not been as popular due to changes in currency design and practical considerations. As a collector, I always strive to keep any rare coins I come across, appreciating the unique history they represent. Whether one dollar coins or half dollars, these coins add a special touch to any collection and can be valuable in both historical and monetary terms.