Introduction

Have you ever wondered about the significance behind the portraits on U.S. currency? From George Washington to Benjamin Franklin, the faces on U.S. bills and coins have a rich history and unique stories behind each one. In this article, we will explore the different presidents featured on U.S. currency, the history of U.S. currency, and the debate over who should be featured on future bills and coins. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about the people behind your money, this guide is for you.

A Guide to U.S. Currency: Who’s on the Money?

U.S. currency comes in different denominations, ranging from the one dollar bill to the one hundred dollar bill. Coins also feature important figures from U.S. history. Here’s a guide to the different bills and coins you’ll come across, along with the presidents featured on each:

One dollar bill: Features the first President of the United States, George Washington.

Two dollar bill: Features the third President of the United States, Thomas Jefferson.

Five dollar bill: Features the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln.

Ten dollar bill: Features the first Treasury Secretary of the United States, Alexander Hamilton.

Twenty dollar bill: Features the 7th President of the United States, Andrew Jackson.

Fifty dollar bill: Features the 18th President of the United States, Ulysses S. Grant.

One hundred dollar bill: Features the first Chief Justice of the United States, Benjamin Franklin.

U.S. coins also feature important figures from U.S. history. The most common coins in circulation include the penny, nickel, dime, and quarter. Here are the presidents featured on each coin:

Penny: Features the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln.

Nickel: Features the 3rd President of the United States, Thomas Jefferson.

Dime: Features the 32nd President of the United States, Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Quarter: Each state has its own unique design on the reverse side, while the obverse side features George Washington.

Each bill and coin also features special designs and symbols. For example, the back of the one dollar bill features an eagle, while the back of the five dollar bill features the Lincoln Memorial.

Exploring the History Behind U.S. Currency

The history of U.S. currency dates back to the Continental Congress in 1775, when paper money was first used to fund the Revolutionary War. The first paper currency was printed in 1862. Since then, U.S. currency has undergone several changes in design and security features.

Presidents were first featured on U.S. currency in 1869, when George Washington and Benjamin Franklin were added to the one dollar bill. The choice of presidents featured on U.S. currency is significant, as it represents the contributions and impact each president had on American history.

U.S. currency also has symbolic significance, with images of important monuments, buildings, and symbols featured on many bills and coins. For example, the eagle on the back of the one dollar bill represents freedom, while the Great Seal of the United States on the back of the five dollar bill represents the power of the federal government.

Presidential Portraits: The Evolution of U.S. Currency

The portraits of presidents on U.S. currency have gone through several changes over the years. In the early days of U.S. currency, portraits were often accompanied by intricate designs and symbols. As printing technology improved, portraits became more prominent and detailed.

Some past currency designs also featured unique features, such as the “funny backs” on some U.S. bills in the 1920s and 1930s. These bills featured designs that were meant to deter counterfeiting, such as intricate designs and bright colors.

Today, U.S. currency features portraits that are highly detailed and realistic. Security features such as watermarks, microprinting, and security threads also help to deter counterfeiting.

The Stories Behind the Faces on U.S. Money

Each president featured on U.S. currency has a unique story and significant contribution to American history. Here are some interesting facts about each president:

George Washington: The first President of the United States and commander-in-chief during the Revolutionary War.

Thomas Jefferson: The third President of the United States and the primary author of the Declaration of Independence.

Abraham Lincoln: The 16th President of the United States and the leader of the Union during the Civil War.

Alexander Hamilton: The first Treasury Secretary of the United States and an influential founding father.

Andrew Jackson: The 7th President of the United States and a controversial figure known for his role in expanding democracy and the Indian Removal Act.

Ulysses S. Grant: The 18th President of the United States and a general during the Civil War who led the Union to victory.

Benjamin Franklin: The first Chief Justice of the United States and a founding father who made significant contributions to science and literature.

What Does a President Have to Do to Get on U.S. Currency?

The criteria that have historically been used to determine which presidents are featured on U.S. bills and coins include their contributions to American history, their popularity, and their impact on American culture. The selection process was often influenced by Congress and the Treasury Department.

For example, the U.S. Treasury Department announced in 2016 that Harriet Tubman, a prominent abolitionist and advocate for women’s suffrage, would replace Andrew Jackson on the front of the twenty dollar bill. However, this decision has since been delayed indefinitely.

The Debate Over Who Should Be on U.S. Currency

Over the years, there has been debate over which presidents should be featured on U.S. currency, with some arguing for more representation of women and people of color. This debate was present during the decision to feature Harriet Tubman on the twenty dollar bill.

Others argue that the current selection of presidents accurately represents the contributions that each president has made to American history. There are also debates over controversial figures such as Andrew Jackson, whose role in the forced relocation of Native American tribes has been called into question.

Conclusion

U.S. currency is more than just a means of exchange – it’s a reflection of American history and culture. From its humble beginnings to the intricate designs and security features of today, U.S. currency has a lot to offer. Understanding the stories and significance behind the faces on U.S. money can deepen our appreciation for the people who have made an impact on American history. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about the people behind your money, we hope this guide has been informative and interesting to you.