Introduction
The United States of America is known for its rich history and significant contributions to the world economy. One of the most notable features of the American economy is the use of paper money and coins featuring American Presidents. For many years, these pieces of currency have served as a fascinating and educational tool, showcasing the identity of American leaders and their contributions to the nation’s growth.
Overview of All Presidents on Money
From George Washington to Donald Trump, many American Presidents have graced the printing plates of U.S. currency. Washington, famously known for signing the Declaration of Independence and presiding over the Constitutional Convention, was the first President to appear on the one-dollar bill back in 1862. Since then, many other Presidents have joined the list and appeared on various denominations of paper currency and coins. The complete list of Presidents on American currency is as follows:
- George Washington – One Dollar Bill & Quarter
- Thomas Jefferson – Two Dollar Bill & Nickel
- Abraham Lincoln – Five Dollar Bill & Penny
- Andrew Jackson – Twenty Dollar Bill
- Ulysses S. Grant – Fifty Dollar Bill
- William McKinley – Five Hundred Dollar Bill
- Woodrow Wilson – One Thousand Dollar Bill
- Franklin D. Roosevelt – Dime
- Harry S. Truman – Fifty Cent Piece
- Dwight D. Eisenhower – Dollar Coin
- John F. Kennedy – Half Dollar Coin
Each President featured on U.S. currency has something unique and interesting to share about themselves. For instance, Washington was instrumental in not just winning the war against the British but also in laying strong foundations for the nation’s future. Similarly, Roosevelt was known as the “Great Communicator,” holding a record of being the only person to be elected president four times. Kennedy, on the other hand, was a famous personality who helped the nation reach for the stars by investing in the space program.
Evolution of Presidents on Money
Over time, the portraits of American Presidents have undergone significant transformations in design, size, and even denominations. The Standardization Act of 1928 established the portraits’ arrangement on notes, the positioning of the text, and the size of the notes, making all designs consistent. However, these designs have evolved since then, resulting in various unique features.
The reason for the changes in appearance could be due to the advancements in printing technology, security measures, or simply an attempt to keep up with the changing times. Each time a change was made, it sparked commentary about the significance of the change and its potential implications. For instance, the introduction of anti-counterfeiting technology prompted the change to the hundred-dollar bill in 2013, featuring a blue ribbon weaving throughout the note, leaving much of it white.
Controversial Presidents on Money
While most Presidents on currency have earned unanimous praise for their contributions to the nation, some have been deemed controversial, and their selection has faced criticism. Andrew Jackson, the seventh President of the United States, has been on the twenty-dollar bill since 1928. However, he has also been known as a slave owner and responsible for the Trail of Tears, which resulted in the forced relocation of thousands of Native Americans.
Similarly, some detractors have criticized the choice of President Woodrow Wilson, selected for the $100,000 bill despite his views on race and segregation. Advocates, though, have argued that the value of these notes lies in their rarity and use primarily in large financial transactions among banks rather than among consumers.
Women on Money
While the women who have featured on US currency have been rare – only two thus far! – the campaign to include more women in this list has gained momentum. The first woman on U.S. currency was Martha Washington, followed by Pocahontas and Sacagawea. However, what is notably absent is a woman to feature on paper currency. In 2016, Harriet Tubman was slated to replace Andrew Jackson on the $20 bill, but this was later postponed by the current administration, citing the lack of security features on the current design.
However, there is a strong push to feature other notable American women to appear on paper currency in the future. Names include Susan B. Anthony, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Rosa Parks, to name a few. The addition of women on currency would be a significant milestone, showing progress and representation in financial institutions and building greater equality and inclusion in American society.
Currency Beyond the President
Not all U.S. currency features a President’s face, with many instead showcasing other events and symbols deemed significant to the country. For instance, the new $100 bill features an image of the Independence Hall in Philadelphia and a quill pen to celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Commemorative coins also recognize other significant American figures, like Neil Armstrong and Martin Luther King Jr.
What’s Next?
Predicting the next President to grace U.S. currency is anyone’s guess at this point. It will likely be someone who has made a substantial contribution to the country, reflecting the unique identity of the American nation. The updated design of the $5, $10, and $20 bills deferred previously may follow shortly, with a woman’s face replacing Andrew Jackson’s portrait on the $20 bill. So, get ready to see a new face on your currency notes soon!
Conclusion
In essence, the Presidents featured on American currency represent the country’s values and heritage. In addition, it is interesting to note that the evolution of these designs reflects the country’s growth and progress over time. Naturally, some designs have been more controversial than others, sparking commentary and debate. After all, ultimately, the choice of who features on any currency reflects what the country values and why it matters.