7 Surprising Facts About $100 Bills

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The $100 bill is one of the most widely recognized and iconic denominations of US currency. However, despite its ubiquity, there are many surprising facts about the $100 bill that few people know. In this article, we'll delve into the fascinating world of $100 bills and uncover seven surprising facts that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for this staple of American currency.

The History of the $100 Bill

The $100 bill has a rich history that dates back to the Civil War era. The first $100 bill was issued in 1862 as a United States Note, which was a type of currency that was used to finance the war effort. These early $100 bills featured a portrait of Salmon P. Chase, who was the Secretary of the Treasury at the time.

The Evolution of the $100 Bill Design

Over the years, the design of the $100 bill has undergone several changes. One of the most significant changes occurred in 1996, when the US Treasury introduced a new design featuring a larger portrait of Benjamin Franklin, who has been featured on the $100 bill since 1914. The new design also included several security features, such as a watermark and a security thread, to prevent counterfeiting.

Security Features of the $100 Bill

The $100 bill is equipped with several advanced security features to prevent counterfeiting. One of the most notable features is the 3D Security Ribbon, which is woven into the paper and features images of 100s and Liberty Bells that shift and change as the bill is tilted. The bill also features a color-shifting inkwell that changes from copper to green when tilted.

The $100 Bill in Popular Culture

The $100 bill has appeared in numerous films, television shows, and music videos over the years. One of the most iconic appearances of the $100 bill is in the 1994 film "Forrest Gump," in which the titular character uses a $100 bill to buy a shrimping boat.

Interesting Facts About the $100 Bill

Here are a few more interesting facts about the $100 bill:

• The $100 bill is the most widely counterfeited denomination of US currency.
• The average lifespan of a $100 bill is 15 years, compared to 5.5 years for a $1 bill.
• The $100 bill features a portrait of Benjamin Franklin, who was a Founding Father and one of the most influential Americans in history.

How to Check if a $100 Bill is Real

With the rise of counterfeit currency, it's more important than ever to know how to check if a $100 bill is real. Here are a few steps you can take:

• Check the security thread: Hold the bill up to a light source and look for the security thread that runs through the paper. If the thread is missing or appears to be tampered with, the bill may be counterfeit.
• Check the watermark: Hold the bill up to a light source and look for the watermark that features a portrait of Benjamin Franklin. If the watermark is missing or appears to be tampered with, the bill may be counterfeit.
• Check the color-shifting inkwell: Tilt the bill back and forth to check if the color-shifting inkwell changes from copper to green.

Conclusion

The $100 bill is an iconic denomination of US currency that has a rich history and several advanced security features. From its evolution in design to its appearances in popular culture, there's no denying the significance of the $100 bill in American society. By knowing how to check if a $100 bill is real and understanding the history and security features of the bill, you can better appreciate the value and importance of this staple of American currency.

Gallery of $100 Bills