5 Facts About 1981 $100 Bill

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The 1981 $100 bill is a fascinating piece of American currency, with a rich history and unique characteristics that set it apart from other denominations. Whether you're a seasoned collector or simply a curious enthusiast, here are five facts about the 1981 $100 bill that you might not know.

Firstly, the 1981 $100 bill features a portrait of Benjamin Franklin, one of the most iconic figures in American history. Franklin's likeness has been featured on the obverse (front side) of the $100 bill since 1914, and his image has undergone several design changes over the years. The 1981 series features a more detailed and refined portrait of Franklin, with intricate engravings and subtle shading that give the bill a sense of depth and dimension.

Secondly, the 1981 $100 bill features a unique security thread that glows pink when held under ultraviolet light. This security feature was introduced in the 1980s as a way to combat counterfeiting, and it has become a standard feature on many denominations of US currency. The security thread is woven into the paper and can be seen as a thin, pink stripe that runs vertically through the center of the bill.

Thirdly, the 1981 $100 bill has a relatively low print run compared to other denominations. According to the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP), a total of 2.4 billion $100 bills were printed in 1981, which is a significant decrease from the 4.4 billion $100 bills printed in 1980. This decrease in print run has contributed to the 1981 $100 bill becoming a highly sought-after collector's item.

Fourthly, the 1981 $100 bill features a vignette of Independence Hall on the reverse (back side) of the bill. Independence Hall is a historic landmark in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were signed. The vignette depicts a detailed engraving of the hall, with intricate architecture and subtle shading that give the image a sense of depth and dimension.

Fifthly, the 1981 $100 bill is still widely accepted as a form of payment today, despite being over 40 years old. While it may not be as commonly used as newer denominations, the 1981 $100 bill remains a legitimate form of currency and can be used to make purchases or exchanged for other denominations at banks and financial institutions.

History of the 1981 $100 Bill

The 1981 $100 bill was part of a larger series of currency redesigns that took place in the 1980s. The redesign was aimed at reducing counterfeiting and improving the overall security features of US currency. The new design featured a more detailed portrait of Benjamin Franklin, as well as the introduction of the security thread that glows pink under ultraviolet light.

The 1981 $100 bill was printed by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) in Washington, D.C. and Fort Worth, Texas. The BEP is responsible for producing all US currency, and the 1981 $100 bill was one of several denominations that were redesigned and reprinted during the 1980s.

Design Features of the 1981 $100 Bill

The 1981 $100 bill features a range of design elements that are unique to this denomination. Some of the key features include:

• A portrait of Benjamin Franklin on the obverse (front side)
• A vignette of Independence Hall on the reverse (back side)
• A security thread that glows pink under ultraviolet light
• A series date of 1981
• A Federal Reserve seal featuring the letter "A" or "B" depending on the district
• A unique serial number that is printed in black ink

Collectibility of the 1981 $100 Bill

The 1981 $100 bill is a highly sought-after collector's item, particularly among enthusiasts of US currency. The bill's unique design features, low print run, and historical significance make it a valuable addition to any collection.

Some of the key factors that affect the collectibility of the 1981 $100 bill include:

• Condition: The condition of the bill is a major factor in determining its collectibility. Bills that are in good condition, with minimal wear and tear, are generally more valuable than those that are worn or damaged.
• Rarity: The rarity of the bill is another key factor in determining its collectibility. Bills with low serial numbers or unique features, such as a star note or a misprinted date, are generally more valuable than those with higher serial numbers or standard features.
• Provenance: The provenance of the bill, or its history of ownership, can also affect its collectibility. Bills that have been owned by notable collectors or have been featured in prominent collections are generally more valuable than those with unknown or uncertain provenance.

Value of the 1981 $100 Bill

The value of the 1981 $100 bill can vary depending on its condition, rarity, and provenance. In general, the value of the bill is determined by its collectibility, with rare and high-grade bills commanding higher prices.

Some approximate values for the 1981 $100 bill include:

• Circulated bills: $100-$200
• Uncirculated bills: $200-$500
• High-grade bills: $500-$1,000
• Rare or unique bills: $1,000-$5,000 or more

Gallery of 1981 $100 Bill Images

Frequently Asked Questions