A Jesmond man has been mugged only moments after finding a $20 note.

Shortly after 6pm last night the 27-year-old man was walking alone down a bike path near the Stockland Shopping Centre when he saw the note on the ground in front of him.

After he picked it up a man wearing a balaclava forced a blunt object into his back, demanding the money and any other valuables.

He handed over the note but didn’t give the thief anything else.

The attacker has been described as 190cm tall, of average build and was wearing a dark jumper. He had a red spider web tattoo just above his hand.

Anyone with information is urged to contact CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000