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The 1985 $20 Federal Reserve Note ERROR Butterfly Fold AU is an intriguing and rare piece of American currency, which is a standout among modern U.S. paper money due to its unusual production error. The "butterfly fold" error refers to a specific mistake that occurred during the printing or handling process of the note, which caused the bill to fold in an unusual manner, resembling the shape of a butterfly. This type of error is highly collectible because it adds a unique feature to an otherwise standard issue note. The 1985 $20 bill, part of the U.S. Treasury’s series of notes from that period, is significant in itself, but the butterfly fold error elevates its desirability and makes it a sought-after piece for collectors of error notes and U.S. currency enthusiasts. Error notes like this one are rare, and they provide a fascinating glimpse into the complexities of currency production.
The 1985 $20 Federal Reserve Note was part of a series that marked a significant point in U.S. currency history. It was issued during the presidency of Ronald Reagan and reflected a shift toward modernized anti-counterfeiting features that were becoming more prominent on U.S. bills. The design of the 1985 series was relatively similar to earlier designs, with the familiar portraits of historical figures like Andrew Jackson on the obverse. However, the bill incorporated new security features, such as a security thread and microprinting, to prevent counterfeiting. The 1985 $20 bill was issued by the Federal Reserve System and circulated widely, as $20 bills are one of the most common denominations in everyday use. Despite the series’ standard design, error notes such as the butterfly fold variety present an anomaly that greatly enhances the bill’s value to collectors and can spark interest in the historical context of currency production.
The design of the 1985 $20 Federal Reserve Note features a portrait of Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the United States, on the front. Jackson’s image has been a staple of $20 bills for many years, symbolizing the country's history and leadership. The reverse side of the note depicts the White House, another iconic symbol of the U.S. government. The bill also includes a number of security features that were introduced to help combat counterfeiting. These features include a security thread embedded in the note, which glows under ultraviolet light, and microprinting that is nearly impossible to reproduce with standard printing techniques. While these elements are typical of the 1985 series, the butterfly fold error is a physical anomaly that was not intentionally designed but rather emerged due to an issue in the bill’s handling or production process, adding a layer of intrigue to the note’s history.
The butterfly fold error on the 1985 $20 bill is a unique and fascinating anomaly that occurred during the manufacturing or handling process. The term "butterfly fold" refers to the shape created when the bill was improperly folded in a way that caused the two edges of the note to overlap in a symmetrical manner, resembling the wings of a butterfly. This type of fold happens when the bill is either mishandled or improperly fed through a machine, causing it to fold in an unexpected way before it reaches the public. While such errors are uncommon, they do occur in various forms, ranging from minor creases to more significant folding errors. The butterfly fold error is particularly captivating because of its distinct, almost artistic shape, making it a visually striking example of a production mistake. The rarity of this particular fold, coupled with its aesthetic appeal, makes it a highly desirable piece for collectors of U.S. error currency.
The mintage of the 1985 $20 Federal Reserve Note, like most regular issues, was substantial, as these notes were produced to meet the demands of circulating currency in the U.S. economy. However, the number of bills that were affected by the butterfly fold error is very small. As with most error notes, only a tiny fraction of the total mintage is affected, making the butterfly fold variety extremely rare. While the exact number of 1985 $20 notes with the butterfly fold error is not known, it is widely believed that only a few have survived in circulation or are still in collectors' hands. This rarity adds significant value to the note, especially when it is preserved in good condition. Error notes are typically highly prized by collectors, who often seek them out as a way to add unique and rare items to their collections.
The condition of the 1985 $20 Federal Reserve Note ERROR Butterfly Fold AU (About Uncirculated) is another crucial factor in determining its value. Notes in About Uncirculated condition show only minimal signs of wear, typically displaying crisp edges, a well-preserved design, and only slight folds or creases. These notes may show minor handling or light creases but remain in excellent condition compared to heavily circulated examples. For error notes like the butterfly fold variety, the condition of the note is particularly important because high-quality specimens with minimal damage are more desirable and can fetch a higher price on the market. While the butterfly fold adds an intriguing feature to the note, collectors also highly value the note’s overall preservation, which makes AU-grade examples particularly desirable. Such notes often carry a premium in the marketplace, as they balance the rarity of the error with the condition of the note.
The 1985 $20 Federal Reserve Note ERROR Butterfly Fold is an example of a numismatic curiosity that fascinates collectors and investors alike. Error notes are a niche within the world of paper currency, and those with unique, visually striking mistakes like the butterfly fold are especially prized. For collectors of U.S. paper money, error notes provide a way to acquire something truly one-of-a-kind, as they are often one of only a few examples to survive in circulation. This butterfly fold variety is particularly popular because of the aesthetic appeal of the error. The distinctive fold, which mimics the appearance of butterfly wings, is a rare and memorable feature that sets the note apart from its standard counterparts. As with other error notes, the uniqueness of the bill, combined with its excellent condition, makes it a standout piece in any collection.
For investors, error notes such as the 1985 $20 Federal Reserve Note ERROR Butterfly Fold offer both a rare opportunity to invest in a unique piece of currency and a way to own a piece of history. U.S. currency error notes, especially those that are visually striking or come from important historical periods, often appreciate in value over time. The rarity of such notes, combined with the growing interest in numismatics and currency collecting, ensures that error notes like the 1985 butterfly fold variety are likely to see continued demand. As more collectors enter the market and seek out unique and rare items, notes like this one will continue to attract attention and maintain their appeal.
In conclusion, the 1985 $20 Federal Reserve Note ERROR Butterfly Fold AU is a valuable and historically significant piece of American currency. The butterfly fold error adds a rare and visually captivating feature to the bill, making it highly desirable among collectors. Its low mintage, connection to the 1985 series, and striking design make it a standout item for numismatists, while its condition and certification further enhance its value. Whether for its historical significance, rarity, or aesthetic appeal, this error note is a unique and valuable addition to any collection of U.S. paper money.