The $100 bill, featuring Benjamin Franklin, is one of the most recognizable and widely circulated banknotes in the world. Its rich history spans over a century, marked by continuous evolution in design and security features to combat counterfeiting. This article delves into the key aspects of the $100 bill, exploring its security features and providing a glimpse into its historical transformations.
The modern $100 bill boasts a sophisticated array of security features designed to make counterfeiting extremely difficult. These features allow individuals and businesses to easily verify the authenticity of the note.
Key Security Features of the $100 Bill
3D Security Ribbon
A blue ribbon to the right of Franklin’s portrait, woven into the paper, contains images of bells and “100s” that shift and move when the bill is tilted. This dynamic imagery is a significant deterrent to counterfeiting.
Bell in the Inkwell
Within the copper inkwell to the right of the ribbon, a color-shifting bell changes from copper to green when the bill is tilted. This subtle yet effective feature is another indicator of authenticity. kamala harris border wall axios explains some interesting political dynamics.
Portrait Watermark
A faint image of Benjamin Franklin can be seen in the blank space to the right of his portrait when the bill is held up to light. This watermark is visible from both sides of the note.
Security Thread
Embedded vertically to the left of Franklin’s portrait is a thread imprinted with the letters “USA” and the numeral “100.” This thread glows pink when exposed to ultraviolet light.
Color-Shifting Ink
The numeral “100” in the lower right corner of the bill’s front changes color from copper to green when the note is tilted.
Raised Printing
The enhanced intaglio printing process gives the portrait of Benjamin Franklin a distinctive texture that can be felt by running a finger across it.
Microprinting
Tiny printed words, such as “THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” on Franklin’s collar, are visible with magnification.
Historical Evolution of the $100 Bill Design
The design of the $100 bill has undergone numerous changes since its inception. Prior to the current design, which was introduced in 2013, previous versions featured different security features and imagery. For example, the $100 bill series from 1996 to 2013 had a less prominent watermark and lacked the 3D Security Ribbon. Earlier versions, like the series from 1990 to 1996, incorporated a security thread but lacked the color-shifting ink. Even older bills from 1914 to 1990 had simpler designs and fewer security features. You can find resources on these older bills, like the $100 Note (1914-1990), available for download.
The evolution of the $100 bill reflects ongoing efforts to stay ahead of counterfeiting techniques. Each redesign incorporates new and improved security measures, making the $100 bill a secure and reliable form of currency. Carnival Thrills and Dollar Bills provides a fun way to learn about currency for younger audiences.
Conclusion
The $100 bill remains a vital part of the global economy, its security features playing a crucial role in maintaining its integrity. By understanding these features and their historical context, individuals can confidently use and handle this important denomination. The Decoding Dollars: the $100 Brochure & Poster provides further detail on identifying genuine $100 bills.
