Foldover errors occur when a sheet of currency paper folds or creases before or during a printing pass. The folded portion either blocks ink from reaching part of the note or creates an extra flap of paper with printing on an unexpected surface. When the sheet is later unfolded and cut, the result is a note with distinctive blank areas, irregular shapes, or printed flaps that are clearly production errors.
During high-speed currency production, sheets of paper occasionally fold over a corner, edge, or interior section before passing through the printing press. The folded area either does not receive ink (leaving a blank triangle or strip) or receives ink on its folded surface (creating a printed flap). If the fold occurs before cutting, the final note may have extra paper extending beyond normal dimensions.
Foldover error values depend on the size and drama of the fold. Large corner folds affecting 20% or more of the note are worth significant premiums. Butterfly folds that create extra flaps are particularly valuable. Small edge folds carry more modest premiums. The denomination, series, and condition all affect value. Notes that clearly show the fold mechanics are most desirable.
Upload a photo of your coin or currency and let ErrorHunt's AI scanner check for errors in seconds.
Scan NowPaper folding during the printing process. A corner or edge folds over before the sheet passes through the press, so the folded area either misses the ink or receives printing on the wrong surface.
Values vary based on the fold size and drama. Small edge folds may bring $25-75, while large corner folds or dramatic butterfly folds can sell for $200-1,000+. Severity and condition are key factors.
A butterfly fold is a dramatic foldover where a portion of paper folds out during printing and, when cut, creates a flap or "wing" extending beyond the note's normal edges. These are among the most visually striking currency errors.
Generally yes. Genuine foldovers show clean geometric boundaries between printed and unprinted areas, consistent with paper mechanics. The blank area is actual paper, not bleached or altered, and printing stops abruptly at the fold line.