The faces of US presidents and Founding Fathers grace American currency, a testament to their significant roles in shaping the nation. But which presidents are on which bills and coins? This guide explores the history of American currency and the prominent figures featured on it.
Presidential Figures on US Coins
Several US coins feature iconic presidents. Here’s a breakdown:
- Penny: Abraham Lincoln’s profile has adorned the penny since 1909, commemorating the centennial of his birth. Interestingly, until the quarter’s redesign in 2022, Lincoln’s portrait was the only one on a coin facing right.
alt - Nickel: Thomas Jefferson, the third US president, is featured on the nickel. Sculptor Felix Schlag’s winning design, introduced in 1938, depicts Jefferson’s profile.
- Dime: Franklin D. Roosevelt’s image on the dime honors his leadership in founding and supporting the March of Dimes, an organization dedicated to combating polio. The dime was designed shortly after his death.
- Quarter: George Washington, the first US president, has graced the quarter since 1932, marking the bicentennial of his birth. Interestingly, the quarter’s composition has evolved; it once contained silver but now features a copper core surrounded by a copper-nickel blend.
- Half Dollar Coin: John F. Kennedy’s image appears on the half-dollar coin. First Lady Jackie Kennedy chose the coin’s denomination to memorialize the slain president. The design is based on his inaugural medal.
Presidents on US Paper Money
US paper currency also showcases several presidents:
- $1 Bill: George Washington’s portrait has been a mainstay on the $1 bill since 1896. This design is one of the oldest still in circulation.
- $2 Bill: Thomas Jefferson’s image has been featured on the $2 bill since 1862, predating even the Washington $1 bill design. Although printing ceased in 1966, the $2 bill returned to circulation in 1976 and continues to be printed today.
- $5 Bill: Abraham Lincoln’s portrait appears on the $5 bill. His Treasury Secretary, Salmon P. Chase, championed Lincoln’s inclusion as a tribute to his leadership during the Civil War and his commitment to preserving the Union.
- $20 Bill: Andrew Jackson’s presence on the $20 bill is somewhat ironic, given his opposition to paper money. The reason for his selection remains a historical mystery, lacking clear documentation.
- $50 Bill: Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th US president, has been featured on the $50 bill since its introduction in 1913.
Non-Presidents on US Currency
Two non-presidents also hold prominent positions on US currency:
- $10 Bill: Alexander Hamilton, a Founding Father and the nation’s first Treasury Secretary, is featured on the $10 bill. Although plans were announced in 2015 to replace him with a female figure, the popularity of the Broadway musical “Hamilton” helped maintain his position.
- $100 Bill: Benjamin Franklin, a Founding Father and renowned inventor, graces the $100 bill. This bill boasts the longest lifespan of all US paper notes, circulating for an estimated 15 years.
Discontinued Currency Featuring Presidents
While no longer in circulation, several other presidents were once featured on higher denomination bills:
- $500 Bill: William McKinley
- $1,000 Bill: Grover Cleveland
- $5,000 Bill: James Madison
- $100,000 Gold Certificate: Woodrow Wilson (never circulated, used for interbank transfers during the Great Depression)
From pennies to hundred-dollar bills, US currency offers a glimpse into the nation’s history through the figures it chooses to honor. These individuals, primarily presidents, represent pivotal moments and enduring values in American history.
