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1928 $20 Gold Certificate ★ Star Note | Fr. 2402 | PMG Very Fine 25 | Rare Collectible

For serious numismatists and collectors of rare U.S. paper currency, this 1928 $20 Gold Certificate Star Note (Fr. 2402) PMG Very Fine 25 is an exceptional and highly desirable piece. Featuring a bold gold seal, scarce star designation, and historic significance, this note is a must-have for any advanced collection.

Gold Certificates were once redeemable in gold coin, but after the Gold Reserve Act of 1934, they were withdrawn from circulation and became illegal to own until 1964. Surviving examples—especially star replacement notes—are exceedingly rare today.

Key Features of This 1928 $20 Gold Certificate Star Note (Fr. 2402)

1. The Final Gold Certificate Series for Public Circulation

Issued just before President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s 1933 executive order, which banned private ownership of gold.
These notes were printed with the promise “IN GOLD COIN PAYABLE TO THE BEARER ON DEMAND”, a clause that became obsolete when the U.S. abandoned the gold standard.
The 1928 series was the last Gold Certificate issued for public use, making it a significant piece of financial history.

2. Scarce & Desirable Star Note Replacement Issue

Star Notes were printed as replacements for misprinted or damaged bills, making them significantly rarer than standard issues.
Star Notes were printed in much smaller quantities, making this example far scarcer than its regular counterpart.
A 1928 $20 Gold Certificate Star Note in VF condition is extremely difficult to find in today’s market.

3. Eye-Catching Design & Distinctive Gold Features

Obverse (Front): Features a bold portrait of Andrew Jackson, the 7th U.S. President, with the distinctive gold Treasury seal and serial numbers.
Reverse (Back): Displays an intricate engraving of the White House, a signature feature of U.S. currency.
The gold ink details make this note instantly recognizable and visually striking among early 20th-century U.S. paper money.

4. PMG Very Fine 25 – A Well-Preserved, Collectible Grade

Graded Very Fine 25 by PMG (Paper Money Guaranty), this note retains strong detail, crispness, and vibrant color.
Displays some light circulation wear, but with no major flaws, tears, or significant soiling.
High-grade Star Notes are extremely rare, as most were heavily used in commerce or later redeemed and destroyed.

Historical Significance of the 1928 $20 Gold Certificate

These notes were a representation of the U.S. monetary system before the abandonment of the gold standard. When Roosevelt issued Executive Order 6102 in 1933, Gold Certificates were withdrawn from circulation, and most were redeemed and destroyed. It wasn’t until 1964 that collectors were legally allowed to own them again.

The $20 denomination was one of the most commonly used Gold Certificates before their recall, but finding a surviving Star Note today is incredibly rare.

Why This Note is a Must-Have for Collectors

✔ Final U.S. Gold Certificate Series – The last public-issue Gold Certificates before their recall.
✔ Rare Star Note Replacement Issue – Much scarcer than standard 1928 $20 Gold Certificates.
✔ PMG VF 25 Grade – Solid collectible condition with excellent eye appeal.
✔ Historic & Financially Significant – Represents the transition away from gold-backed currency.
✔ Highly Sought-After Investment Piece – Increasingly rare as collectors hold onto them.

With its historical importance, rarity as a Star Note, and collectible-grade preservation, this 1928 $20 Gold Certificate (Fr. 2402, PMG VF 25) is a true centerpiece for any serious currency collection.

Final Thoughts – A Unique & Historic Collectible

This 1928 $20 Gold Certificate Star Note is not just a piece of U.S. currency—it’s a symbol of a bygone era in American financial history. Given its scarcity, eye-catching gold design, and Star Note rarity, this is an excellent investment-grade collectible that is only becoming harder to find.