What dollar bill is Ben Franklin on? This question often piques the curiosity of many, especially those fascinated by American history and the nation’s currency. Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, has been featured on various denominations of the dollar bill throughout history. This article delves into the different dollar bills that have showcased the iconic figure of Benjamin Franklin.
Benjamin Franklin first appeared on the United States currency in 1914 when he was depicted on the $100 bill. This design was a result of the efforts of the Franklin Savings Bank in Boston, which lobbied for the inclusion of Franklin on the currency. The $100 bill featuring Franklin was a part of the new Series 1914 design, which also included the first use of the Federal Reserve System’s seal.
In 1946, Franklin was again featured on the $100 bill, but this time as part of the Series 1946 design. This bill was notable for its distinctive green color and the introduction of the Federal Reserve System’s name in the top left corner. The 1946 $100 bill also marked the first time Franklin’s portrait was used on a United States currency.
The next time Franklin appeared on a dollar bill was in 1963 when he was depicted on the $100 bill once more. This Series 1963 design was a significant departure from previous iterations, as it featured a horizontal orientation and a different color scheme. The 1963 $100 bill also marked the first time that Franklin’s portrait was used on the front of the bill, replacing the previously used seal of the Treasury Department.
In 1996, Franklin was once again featured on the $100 bill, this time as part of the Series 1996 design. This bill was the first to incorporate the new “Federal Reserve Note” watermark, which was a security feature aimed at deterring counterfeiting. The 1996 $100 bill also featured a more modern design, with a more prominent portrait of Franklin and a revised color scheme.
Finally, in 2001, Franklin made his last appearance on the $100 bill as part of the Series 2001 design. This bill featured a revised color scheme and a more detailed portrait of Franklin, as well as the introduction of the “Security Thread” security feature. The 2001 $100 bill was the last to feature Franklin, as he was replaced by Alexander Hamilton on the redesigned Series 2013 $100 bill.
In conclusion, Benjamin Franklin has been featured on the $100 bill multiple times throughout history, showcasing his significant contributions to the United States. From the early days of the nation’s currency to the modern era, Franklin’s image has remained a symbol of American ingenuity and independence. Whether you are a history buff or simply curious about the nation’s currency, the presence of Franklin on the dollar bill is a testament to his enduring legacy.
