When did they stop making $2 dollar bills? This question often arises among collectors and enthusiasts of American currency. The $2 bill, also known as the “Silver Certificate,” has a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. Understanding when and why the production of these bills ceased is essential for those who appreciate the evolution of American currency.
The first $2 bills were issued by the United States government in 1862 as part of the Legal Tender Act. These bills were backed by silver and were intended to provide a stable currency during the Civil War. The design featured a portrait of Salmon P. Chase, the Secretary of the Treasury at the time. The $2 bill remained in circulation for several decades, with various designs and denominations being introduced over the years.
In 1928, the $2 bill was redesigned to feature the portrait of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States. This new design remained in use until 1976, when it was replaced by a new $2 bill featuring a colorized version of the original design. The new bill was part of a series of redesigned currency notes issued to commemorate the nation’s bicentennial.
The production of the $2 bill, however, was not continuous. In 1966, the government decided to discontinue the issuance of $2 bills in favor of larger denominations, such as the $5 bill. This decision was made to reduce the number of high-denomination bills in circulation and to simplify the currency system. As a result, the $2 bill became less common, and its production gradually decreased.
The last $2 bills were printed in 1976, coinciding with the 200th anniversary of the United States. These bills featured the original bicentennial design and were intended to be used as souvenirs. Since then, the $2 bill has become a rare and sought-after collectible item. Although the government has not printed new $2 bills since 1976, they are still in circulation as legal tender.
The decision to stop making $2 bills was influenced by various factors, including the need to streamline the currency system and reduce the number of high-denomination bills. However, the $2 bill’s rich history and its significance as a symbol of American history have ensured its enduring popularity among collectors. For those who are curious about when they stopped making $2 dollar bills, the answer is 1976, and the legacy of this unique currency continues to this day.
