SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/dollar-bill-lifespan

About how long does a $1 bill last before it wears out?

About 7 years.

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Too littleAbout a year
Too muchForever, if no one rips it
Just rightAbout 7 years

Huh, didn't know that: Worn-out bills are taken out of circulation and destroyed, and new ones replace them.

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What did the dollar say to the four quarters? You've changed.
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References

Answer: About 7 years. The Federal Reserve estimates a $1 bill lasts about 7.2 years. Small bills change hands a lot, so they wear out faster. A $100 bill lasts about 24 years.

  1. Federal Reserve: How long is the life span of U.S. paper money? www.federalreserve.gov/faqs/how-long-is-the-life-span-of-us-paper-money.htm
    Denomination Estimated Lifespan* $1 7.2 years
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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