United States one-hundred-dollar bill

United States one-hundred-dollar bill. The United States one-hundred-dollar bill is a denomination of United States currency featuring a portrait of Benjamin Franklin on its obverse and a vignette of Independence Hall on its reverse. It is the highest-value Federal Reserve Note currently in circulation and has been issued in various forms since 1862. Often colloquially called a "Benjamin" or a "C-note," the bill is a cornerstone of both domestic and international financial transactions and is subject to sophisticated anti-counterfeiting measures.

History

The first $100 bill was issued as a Legal Tender Note in 1862 during the American Civil War, featuring a portrait of an American bald eagle. Subsequent large-size notes included the Series of 1869 "rainbow note" and the famed Series of 1890 "Treasury Note" or "Coin Note." The transition to the smaller, modern size occurred with the Series of 1928, which first placed Benjamin Franklin on the obverse, replacing earlier depictions like Abraham Lincoln. Major redesigns were implemented in 1996 and, most significantly, in 2009 following delays due to production issues. Historically, other high-denomination notes like the five hundred-dollar bill and one thousand-dollar bill have been discontinued, cementing the $100 note's role as the largest in general circulation.

Design

The obverse of the current note centers on a portrait of statesman and inventor Benjamin Franklin, based on a painting by Joseph Duplessis. To the left is an inset vignette of Independence Hall, though the building's clock tower incorrectly reads 4:10. The reverse features a full rear view of Independence Hall, where both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated and signed. Key design elements include green serial numbers, a green Treasury seal, and the phrase "In God We Trust" added following the 1956 law mandating its use on currency. The overall color scheme remains predominantly black and green, distinct from lower denominations.

Security features

The Series of 2009 bill introduced advanced, multi-layered security features to combat counterfeiting. These include a blue 3D security ribbon woven into the paper that displays bells and numerals that shift when tilted. A color-shifting bell in the inkwell on the right of Franklin's portrait changes from copper to green. A faint, off-center portrait watermark of Franklin is visible when held to light, matching the main portrait. Additionally, microprinted text, including "USA 100" around the blank space containing the watermark and "United States of America" on Franklin's coat, a security thread glowing pink under ultraviolet light, and raised intaglio printing providing a distinctive texture are all critical authentication elements.

Production and circulation

Production is managed by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing under the authority of the Federal Reserve System. The notes are printed on a unique substrate composed of 75% cotton and 25% linen. As of 2022, there were over 18.5 billion $100 bills in circulation, representing over 80% of the total value of U.S. currency in global circulation. A significant portion is held outside the United States, often used as a stable store of value in regions with volatile currencies. The average lifespan of a $100 bill is approximately 15 years, longer than lower denominations due to less frequent handling. The Federal Reserve Banks distribute new notes and remove unfit currency from circulation.

Cultural impact

The $100 bill holds substantial cultural weight, often symbolizing wealth, success, or illicit activity in popular media. It is frequently referenced in hip-hop lyrics and films like *Scarface* and *The Godfather Part II*. Its nickname "Benjamin" derives from Franklin's portrait, while "C-note" comes from the Roman numeral C for 100. The bill's global role as a de facto secondary currency, especially the older "big head" design, has been analyzed in contexts ranging from international trade to geopolitical tensions with nations like North Korea and Iran, where its use is sometimes restricted. It remains an enduring icon of American economic power. Category:United States banknotes Category:Currencies of the United States