Not Worth A Buck: The Embarrassed States of America
Print / Mixed Media on Paper • Contemporary satirical artist / political protest art publisher
Style & Movement
Contemporary Political Satire / Pop Art / Protest Art
Medium & Technique
Offset lithography on recycled paper with red numbering stamp and seal
Creation Period
circa 2000 (Series 2000 indicated on face)
Dimensions & Format
Standard banknote format, approximately 6.1 x 2.6 inches (landscape)
Subject Description
A parody of United States currency featuring a satirical ninety-nine cent denomination, substituting traditional American symbols with Chinese political and cultural references, including a portrait of a figure in traditional Asian headwear, text reading 'NOT WORTH A BUCK' and 'THE EMBARRASSED STATES OF AMERICA', along with humorous annotations.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. Minor handling creases, slight edge yellowing, but overall intact with vibrant red serial numbers and stamps.
Estimated Market Value
$20 - $50
Auction Estimate
$10 - $30
Provenance History
Acquired as a piece of political novelty art, likely distributed during the late 1990s or early 2000s political fundraising controversies.
Art Historical Significance
Belongs to a long tradition of currency parody used in political protest and satirical commentary, specifically reflecting turn-of-the-millennium anxieties surrounding globalization, US-China relations, and campaign finance.
Notable Features
Includes humorous micro-text and annotations such as 'I Gotta Bag For U, Buddhist Monk', 'WASHINGTON, P.R.C.', and 'IS PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER'.
Condition Issues
Faint horizontal creasing across the center, slight toning and yellowing of the recycled paper due to age and exposure.
Conservation Recommendations
Store in an acid-free archival sleeve away from direct sunlight to prevent further paper degradation and fading of red stamps.