100 Dollar Bill

Who is on the 100 dollar bill?

Benjamin Franklin appears on the 100 dollar bill, with Independence Hall on the reverse. Franklin was a statesman, inventor, diplomat, and printer who helped shape the early United States.

The pairing of Franklin and Independence Hall ties the denomination to the founding era. It is one of the most recognized bills in the world, used widely in domestic commerce and international travel.

A brief history of the 100 dollar bill

The 100 dollar bill has been issued since the nineteenth century and has served as a high-value note for banks, businesses, and consumers. Early large-size notes featured elaborate artwork and varied designs, reflecting the engraving style of the era.

In 1928 the US introduced the small-size format that remains standard today. Major security updates arrived in the late twentieth century, and the new 100 dollar bill introduced in the 2010s added modern, high-tech features while keeping the classic portrait and building layout intact.

Design details: Franklin and Independence Hall

Franklin's portrait is engraved with fine-line detail that is difficult to reproduce, while the seals and serial numbers provide visual confirmation of authenticity. Modern series also include subtle background patterns and color accents to improve recognition.

Independence Hall on the reverse connects the note to the signing of the Declaration of Independence. On the front, the inkwell with the Liberty Bell adds an extra layer of symbolism and a focal point for one of the bill's key security features.

New 100 dollar bill security features

The new 100 dollar bill introduced advanced anti-counterfeit technology. These features are meant to be checked quickly with sight and touch, and they work best as a set rather than individually.

• Blue 3D security ribbon with shifting bells and 100s when tilted.
• Color-shifting bell in the inkwell that changes from copper to green.
• Watermark portrait of Franklin visible when held to light.
• Security thread embedded in the paper with "USA 100" text.
• Microprinting around the portrait and borders.
• Raised intaglio printing you can feel with your fingertips.

Use the "tilt, look, feel" method: tilt for color shifts, look for the watermark and thread, and feel the raised printing. Comparing with a known genuine note is always recommended.

Circulation and global use

The $100 bill is common in high-value domestic transactions and is widely used for international travel and savings. Because it concentrates a large value into a single note, it is convenient but also carefully scrutinized by cash handlers.

Some merchants may check $100 notes more carefully than smaller denominations. Knowing the new 100 dollar bill security features helps you confirm authenticity quickly and avoid confusion during everyday transactions.

Older series and redesigns

It is normal to see multiple designs of the 100 dollar bill in circulation. Older series without the blue security ribbon are still valid, and all genuine Federal Reserve Notes remain legal tender regardless of design changes.

If you handle an older $100, use the series year on the face to understand which security features to expect. Banks can exchange older notes for newer ones, but most people simply spend them as usual.

When in doubt, compare an older bill with a known authentic note. The paper texture, sharpness of engraved lines, and placement of the watermark and thread should feel consistent for genuine currency.

Collector value and notable varieties

Most modern $100 bills trade at face value. Collectors look for star notes, low serial numbers, repeating or radar patterns, and printing errors. Older large-size notes and early small-size series can be significantly more valuable, especially in high grades.

If you collect $100 bills, consider focusing on a series set or a Federal Reserve district set. These structured goals keep the hobby educational and help you track changes in design and security over time.

Why Benjamin Franklin is on the $100 bill

Benjamin Franklin played a central role in early American history as a diplomat, inventor, printer, and public thinker. He helped secure key alliances during the founding era and shaped the country's approach to education, science, and civic life.

Franklin also operated one of the most influential printing businesses in colonial America, producing newspapers and government documents, and he supported early efforts to standardize paper money. As a result, he is one of the few non-presidents on modern US currency, alongside Alexander Hamilton on the $10 bill.

Care and handling

Because the $100 bill carries higher face value, careful handling matters. Store collectible notes in archival sleeves, keep them dry and flat, and avoid folding or cleaning. Cleaning can permanently damage the paper and reduce collector interest.

Fun facts about the $100 bill

The $100 bill is often nicknamed a "C-note" and is the highest denomination in common circulation today. Its modern design is intentionally bold to make it harder to counterfeit and easier to identify at a glance.

• The blue 3D ribbon is woven into the paper, not printed on top.
• Independence Hall links the note to the founding era of the US.
• The $100 is a popular denomination for travel and savings worldwide.

100 dollar bill FAQ

Who is on the 100 dollar bill?

Benjamin Franklin appears on the obverse of the $100 bill.

What is new about the new 100 dollar bill?

The new 100 dollar bill adds a blue 3D security ribbon and a color-shifting bell in the inkwell, along with updated microprinting and other anti-counterfeit features.

How do I check if a 100 dollar bill is real?

Look for the watermark, the embedded security thread, the color-shifting ink, and the raised printing. Tilt the note to see the ribbon and bell change as you move it.