100 Dollar 2006 Series: A New Era of Currency Design
Introduction
In 2006, the United States government introduced a new series of $100 bills, which featured a unique design and advanced security features to prevent counterfeiting. The 2006 series $100 bill was a significant upgrade from its predecessor, with a fresh design and improved security features that made it more difficult to reproduce.
Design and Security Features
The 2006 series $100 bill features a portrait of Benjamin Franklin, one of the founding fathers of the United States, on the obverse side. The reverse side features an image of Independence Hall in Philadelphia, where the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were signed.
Security Features:
- Color-Shifting Liberty Bell: A copper-colored bell in the lower right corner of the bill changes to a green color when tilted.
- 3-D Security Ribbon: A woven strip running down the center of the bill features images of 100s and Liberty Bells that shift and change as the bill is tilted.
- Microprinting: Tiny text with the words "USA 100" and "United States of America" is printed along the borders of the bill.
- Watermark: A faint image of Benjamin Franklin can be seen when the bill is held up to light.
- Raised Printing: The numerals "100" and the words "United States of America" are raised on the surface of the bill.
Production and Distribution
The 2006 series $100 bill was produced by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) and was distributed to financial institutions across the United States. The bill was introduced on March 25, 2006, and was gradually phased in to replace the previous series of $100 bills.
Impact and Legacy
The 2006 series $100 bill set a new standard for currency design and security features. The advanced security features made it more difficult for counterfeiters to reproduce, reducing the risk of counterfeiting and increasing confidence in the US currency. The design has been praised for its unique and innovative features, and has set a precedent for future currency designs.
In conclusion, the 2006 series $100 bill is a significant milestone in the history of US currency, featuring advanced security features and a unique design that has set a new standard for currency production.
