Ellis Island Dollar Notes: Not Fake, Just Specialized

The premise is incorrect: Ellis Island "dollars" were not counterfeit 1906 coins.

• They were Series 1928 $1 Silver Certificates (blue seal) overprinted with "ELLIS ISLAND" for use by detained immigrants at the immigration station (1928–1941).
• Purpose: Prevent currency from leaving the island; facilitate canteen purchases.
• They are genuine U.S. government issues, not fakes. Today they are collectible numismatic items, valued above face value depending on condition.

No 1906-dated Ellis Island currency exists. The confusion may stem from the station's peak years (1900–1914) or misidentified notes.