Historical figures and prominent leaders are featured on USA money, adorning both coins and banknotes that circulate throughout the nation.
Understanding who appears on U.S. currency offers a glimpse into American history and the individuals who have significantly shaped its foundation and development. From founding fathers to influential presidents, these figures are immortalized on the money used daily.
Prominent Figures on U.S. Coins
The most common U.S. coins feature presidents and other key historical personalities. Each coin's design, known as its obverse (front) side, prominently displays their likeness.
Here's a look at who you'll find on the primary circulating coins:
| Rank | Currency Name | Obverse Image |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Penny | Abraham Lincoln |
| 2 | Nickel | Thomas Jefferson |
| 3 | Dime | Franklin D. Roosevelt |
| 4 | Quarter | George Washington |
- Penny (1 cent): Features Abraham Lincoln, the 16th U.S. President, known for leading the country through the Civil War and abolishing slavery. His image has been on the penny since 1909, commemorating his 100th birthday.
- Nickel (5 cents): Displays Thomas Jefferson, the third U.S. President and primary author of the Declaration of Independence. His portrait has been on the nickel since 1938.
- Dime (10 cents): Shows Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd U.S. President, who led the country through the Great Depression and most of World War II. He has been on the dime since 1946.
- Quarter (25 cents): Depicts George Washington, the first U.S. President and commander of the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. His image has graced the quarter since 1932.
Beyond these, the half-dollar coin features John F. Kennedy, the 35th U.S. President, while various dollar coins have featured figures like Sacagawea and other U.S. Presidents.
Historical Figures on U.S. Banknotes
U.S. paper currency, or banknotes, also prominently features key historical figures, primarily presidents and a Founding Father, on their front (obverse) side.
Denominations and Their Figures
- $1 Bill: George Washington
- The first President of the United States.
- $2 Bill: Thomas Jefferson
- The third President of the United States.
- $5 Bill: Abraham Lincoln
- The 16th President of the United States.
- $10 Bill: Alexander Hamilton
- A Founding Father, influential economist, and the first Secretary of the Treasury. He is one of two non-presidents on current U.S. banknotes.
- $20 Bill: Andrew Jackson
- The seventh President of the United States.
- $50 Bill: Ulysses S. Grant
- The 18th President of the United States and a leading Union general during the Civil War.
- $100 Bill: Benjamin Franklin
- A prominent polymath, statesman, scientist, inventor, writer, and diplomat. He is the other non-president featured on current U.S. banknotes.
For a visual guide and more details, you can explore the designs on the U.S. Currency Education Program website by the Federal Reserve at www.uscurrency.gov.
Why These Figures?
The selection of these individuals for U.S. currency is a testament to their lasting impact on the nation's history, governance, and identity. They represent pivotal moments, ideals, and leadership that have defined the United States. The U.S. Mint and the Bureau of Engraving and Printing are responsible for producing these designs, which are periodically updated for security features while largely retaining the iconic portraits.
