Sometimes it pays to keep a low profile. However, when it comes to certain collectible currency being publicity shy is a mixed bag. On the plus side, you benefit from more choices and relatively modest prices. On the down side, it tends to restrain values and appreciation for your items.
The best of both worlds is possible when you recognize value before the crowd does.
The 1995 $5 Prosperity Sheets are good candidates for that role. Little known beyond certain hardcore small size collectors, only 1125 eight-note sheets were printed for each block. Printed exclusively for the 8th or St Louis District, the eight limited-edition blocks are H-D through H-K. Each of the notes begins with a minimum of four eights (for example, H8888XXXXJ)).
These notes were marketed extensively to the Asian community, in the U.S. and overseas. As a result, many of these sheets now reside beyond the reach of traditional collectors. For example, the H-G and H-F blocks were sold primarily overseas and are extremely difficult to locate. Single notes from the H-G and H-F sheets have recently sold in the $300-$350 range.
With the Schwartz & Lindquist Small-Size Guide only mentioning these notes in a one-sentence comment on page 139 of their book, it’s easy to see how most collectors have overlooked these.
Thanks to Currency America for the information!
