The 1990s $100 Bill: A Look Back at the Iconic Design
The 1990s saw a significant change in the design of the United States $100 bill. In 1996, the Department of the Treasury's Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) introduced a redesigned $100 bill, featuring a new security thread, microprinting, and other advanced anti-counterfeiting features.
Security Features
The 1990s $100 bill was designed with several advanced security features to prevent counterfeiting. Some of the key features included:
- Security Thread: A thin strip of paper embedded in the paper, which glows pink when held under UV light.
- Microprinting: Tiny text printed in the border of the bill, which is difficult to read without a magnifying glass.
- Watermark: A translucent image of Benjamin Franklin's portrait, visible when held up to light.
Design Elements
The 1990s $100 bill retained many of the classic design elements of previous versions, including:
- Portrait of Benjamin Franklin: The iconic portrait of Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, appears on the obverse (front side) of the bill.
- Liberty Bell: An image of the Liberty Bell, a symbol of American independence, appears on the reverse (back side) of the bill.
- Great Seal of the United States: The Great Seal of the United States, featuring a bald eagle, shield, and olive branch, appears on the reverse of the bill.
Interesting Facts
- The 1990s $100 bill was the first denomination to feature a security thread.
- The design of the bill was intended to be more visually appealing and easier to distinguish from other denominations.
- The bill was printed on a unique blend of 75% cotton and 25% linen paper, giving it a distinct texture.
Legacy
The 1990s $100 bill marked a significant shift in the design of US currency, paving the way for future redesigns and enhanced security features. The bill remained in circulation until 2013, when it was replaced by a new design featuring 3-D Security Ribbon and Bell in the Inkwell. However, the 1990s $100 bill remains an iconic symbol of American currency and a popular collector's item among numismatists.
