"The Basics" on U.S. Currency

The more you know about US currency design and security features the tougher it is for counterfeiters to be successful. The Federal Reserve Board issues the following denominations: 1, 2, 5,10, 20, 50, and 100 dollar notes. Each of these seven denominations features a portrait of a famous American Statesman on the front and a vignette with an image reflecting aspects of the nation's history on the back. US currency is primarily redesigned for security reasons to stay ahead of counterfeiters and we have different styles of notes in circulation. It is important to note that all designs remain legal tender regardless of when they were issued. Different styles and denominations can have slightly different security features such as color shifting ink, security threads, and watermarks. Design features such as portraits, historical vignettes, numerals, and lettering are added by a mix of printing processes including raised printing. Banknotes are printed by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing on a special paper blend made up of about 25% linen and 75% cotton. This unique paper coupled with the raised printing process gives US currency its distinctive feel. For a more detailed look at each denomination and its features explore the interactive notes and training module on UScurrency.gov