What President is on the One Hundred Dollar Bill?
The United States one hundred dollar bill is one of the most recognized and highly valued currency notes in the world. Its front features a portrait of a prominent historical figure, and for many years, the face that adorned this esteemed denomination was that of the esteemed president, Benjamin Franklin. However, as of April 2016, the portrait on the one hundred dollar bill was replaced with that of another president, Abraham Lincoln. This change was part of a series of redesigns aimed at improving the security features of the currency and commemorating the 200th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth.
Benjamin Franklin, the Founding Father and inventor, was the first person to appear on the one hundred dollar bill. Franklin’s portrait adorned the bill from 1914 until 2001. His image was chosen because of his significant contributions to the nation’s independence and his role as a statesman, scientist, and diplomat. Franklin’s portrait was also a nod to the fact that the one hundred dollar bill was the highest denomination in circulation at the time.
In 2001, the portrait of Franklin was replaced with that of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States. Lincoln’s image was selected to honor his leadership during the American Civil War and his efforts to preserve the Union. His presidency and the events that unfolded during his tenure are considered pivotal in American history. The decision to feature Lincoln on the one hundred dollar bill was made in part to recognize the 200th anniversary of his birth in 2009.
The redesign of the one hundred dollar bill with Lincoln’s portrait also included enhanced security features to combat counterfeiting. These features include a blue 3-D security ribbon with images of bells and the number 100, a color-shifting bell in an inkwell, and a faint image of Lincoln in the background of the bill. The new design was introduced amidst much fanfare and has since become a symbol of American resilience and the nation’s enduring commitment to preserving its values.
In conclusion, the one hundred dollar bill has undergone a significant transformation over the years, with the portrait of Benjamin Franklin giving way to that of Abraham Lincoln. This change serves as a testament to the evolving nature of American history and the importance of the figures who have shaped it. Whether it’s Franklin’s innovative spirit or Lincoln’s unwavering commitment to the nation’s unity, the one hundred dollar bill continues to serve as a powerful reminder of the values and ideals that define the United States.
