Who Is On The 100 Dollar Bill? The Legacy Of Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin, the polymath, inventor, and diplomat, is the person featured on the United States 100 dollar bill. He has appeared on the denomination since 1914. Franklin is one of only two non-presidents currently featured on circulating U.S. paper currency, the other being Alexander Hamilton on the 10 dollar bill.

The 100 dollar bill is the largest denomination of United States currency currently in general circulation. Often referred to as a "Benjamin" or a "C-note" (referencing the Roman numeral for 100), the bill serves as a cornerstone of both domestic and international finance. In 2026, while digital transactions continue to rise, the physical 100 dollar bill remains a vital store of value and the most frequently printed note by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing.

Why Benjamin Franklin Was Chosen for the 100 Dollar Bill

The decision to place Benjamin Franklin on the 100 dollar bill was not accidental. When the Department of the Treasury standardized the portraits for U.S. currency in 1928, Franklin was selected for the highest denomination in general circulation to honor his immense contributions to the founding of the nation and his work in the sciences and humanities.

A Founding Father Without a Presidency

Unlike George Washington or Abraham Lincoln, Benjamin Franklin never served as President of the United States. However, his influence on the American Revolution and the subsequent formation of the government was arguably as significant as any president's. Franklin was a signatory of both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. He was the primary diplomat who secured French support during the Revolutionary War, a move that was essential for the American victory.

Contributions to Fiscal Policy and Printing

Franklin’s connection to currency is also practical. Long before the United States existed as a unified nation, Franklin was a printer in colonial Pennsylvania. He was a pioneer in the creation of colonial paper money, even incorporating innovative anti-counterfeiting measures like "nature printing"—using unique leaf patterns to make bills harder to forge. His face on the 100 dollar bill serves as a tribute to his early advocacy for a stable American monetary system.

Symbolism of the "Self-Made Man"

The Treasury Department often selects figures who represent specific American ideals. Franklin embodies the "self-made man." Rising from a humble apprentice to an internationally renowned scientist, author, and statesman, his life story reflects the economic mobility and intellectual curiosity that the United States aims to project globally through its currency.

The Evolution of the 100 Dollar Bill Design

The 100 dollar bill has undergone several major transformations since its inception. While Franklin has been the face of the bill for over a century, the aesthetic and technical specifications have evolved to meet the needs of a changing economy.

The 1914 Federal Reserve Note

The first 100 dollar Federal Reserve Note, issued in 1914, was significantly larger than modern currency. This "large-size" note featured Franklin’s portrait on the front and an allegorical scene representing Labor, Plenty, America, Peace, and Commerce on the back.

The 1928 Standardization

In 1928, the U.S. government reduced the physical size of all paper currency to lower production costs and increase efficiency. It was during this period that the current portrait of Franklin was established, and the back of the bill was changed to feature Independence Hall in Philadelphia—the site where both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed.

The 1996 "Big Head" Redesign

To combat the rise of high-quality color copiers and scanners, the Treasury introduced the Series 1996 100 dollar bill. This version featured a larger, slightly off-center portrait of Franklin. The increased size allowed for more detail in the engraving, making it harder for counterfeiters to replicate his features accurately. This series also introduced the first generation of modern security features, such as a security thread and color-shifting ink.

The 2013 "Blue Note" Series

The most recent and current redesign was released in October 2013. Known for its distinct blue 3D security ribbon, this version represents the pinnacle of modern currency technology. As of 2026, this "Series 2009" and "Series 2009A" (and subsequent yearly letter updates) design remains the standard for all 100 dollar bills entering circulation.

Anatomy of the Modern 100 Dollar Bill

Understanding the 100 dollar bill requires a look at both its artistic elements and its functional security components. The Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) uses a combination of traditional intaglio printing and high-tech polymers to create each note.

The Obverse (Front)

The front of the bill is dominated by Franklin’s portrait. In the 2013 redesign, the portrait no longer has an oval frame around it, allowing the image to appear more integrated with the background. To the right of the portrait, you will find the "Bell in the Inkwell." This features a copper-colored inkwell containing a bell that changes color from copper to green when the bill is tilted, making the bell appear to disappear and reappear within the inkwell.

The Reverse (Back)

The back of the bill features a detailed vignette of Independence Hall. In the current series, the view shows the rear of the building rather than the front. A notable detail for enthusiasts is the time shown on the clock tower of Independence Hall. On older bills, the time was approximately 4:10; on the newest series, the clock is set to approximately 10:30. There is no official "secret" meaning behind the time; it is simply a detail captured during the engraving process.

Advanced Security Features: How to Spot a Fake

The 100 dollar bill is the most frequently counterfeited U.S. note outside of the United States. Consequently, it contains the most sophisticated security features of any denomination. To verify a 100 dollar bill, experts recommend a "Feel, Look, Tilt" approach.

1. Feel the Paper

U.S. currency paper is not actually paper in the traditional sense; it is a blend of cotton and linen with embedded red and blue synthetic fibers. A genuine 100 dollar bill has a distinct texture, particularly in the areas of intaglio printing (raised ink). If you run your fingernail along Franklin's shoulder on the left side of the bill, you should feel a distinct vibration from the ridges of the ink.

2. Look Through the Bill

When held up to a light source, two key features should become visible:

• The Watermark: A faint image of Benjamin Franklin is embedded in the paper to the right of the large portrait. It is visible from both sides of the note.
• The Security Thread: A vertical thread is embedded in the paper to the left of the portrait. It is imprinted with the letters "USA" and the number "100" in an alternating pattern. Under ultraviolet (UV) light, this thread glows pink.

3. Tilt the Bill

The most advanced features are reactive to motion:

• The 3D Security Ribbon: This blue ribbon is woven into the paper, not printed on it. As you tilt the bill back and forth, the bells and the number "100" move. If you tilt the bill side-to-side, they move up and down. If you tilt it up and down, they move side-to-side.
• Color-Shifting "100": The large numeral "100" in the bottom right corner of the front changes from copper to green when the bill is tilted.

4. Microprinting

For those with a magnifying glass, the 100 dollar bill contains tiny text that is nearly impossible for standard printers to replicate without blurring. You can find "THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" on Franklin’s jacket collar, "USA 100" around the blank space containing the watermark, and "100 USA" along the golden quill to the right of the portrait.

The Global Role of the "Benjamin"

The 100 dollar bill is more than just American currency; it is a global reserve asset. According to the Federal Reserve, more than half of all 100 dollar bills circulate outside of the United States.

A Store of Value

In countries experiencing high inflation or political instability, the 100 dollar bill is often used as a primary means of saving. Because it is high-value and easily portable, it is the preferred denomination for international "mattress savings." This global demand is why the U.S. government is so invested in maintaining the security and integrity of the note.

The Impact of Modernization

As of 2026, there have been occasional discussions by economists regarding the "elimination" of high-value notes like the 100 dollar bill to combat illicit activities, such as money laundering and tax evasion. However, the Federal Reserve has consistently maintained that the demand for physical cash remains strong. The 100 dollar bill provides privacy and a "fail-safe" for transactions during power outages or cyber-attacks that might cripple digital payment systems.

Common Misconceptions About the 100 Dollar Bill

Despite being in everyone's pockets (or dreams), several myths persist about the 100 dollar bill and the man on it.

Is it the highest bill ever made?

No. The U.S. previously issued 500, 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000 dollar bills for general circulation. There was even a 100,000 dollar gold certificate used for transactions between Federal Reserve banks. These high-denomination notes were discontinued in 1969 due to lack of use. While they remain legal tender, they are worth far more to collectors than their face value.

Was Franklin a President?

As noted earlier, Franklin was never president. He held the office of "President of Pennsylvania" (a role similar to a Governor), but he passed away in 1790, shortly after the federal government was established under the new Constitution.

Are older 100 dollar bills still valid?

Yes. Every design of the 100 dollar bill issued since the Federal Reserve was established in 1913 remains legal tender at face value. You can still spend a "small head" Franklin from the 1970s at a grocery store today, though many merchants may be hesitant because they are unfamiliar with the older security features.

Technical Specifications for Collectors and Experts

For those interested in the technical side of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP), the 100 dollar bill is a marvel of industrial design.

• Weight: Each bill weighs approximately one gram.
• Composition: 75% cotton and 25% linen.
• Dimensions: 6.14 inches wide by 2.61 inches high.
• Thickness: 0.0043 inches.
• Lifespan: Because 100 dollar bills are handled less frequently than 1 or 5 dollar bills, they have a much longer lifespan, typically lasting over 15 years in circulation.

The 100 dollar bill is produced at two locations: Washington, D.C., and Fort Worth, Texas. You can tell where your bill was printed by looking at the small "FW" mark in the corner of the front; if it has an "FW," it was printed in Texas. If not, it was printed in the nation's capital.

FAQs

Why is Benjamin Franklin on the 100 dollar bill if he wasn't a president?

Benjamin Franklin was chosen because of his status as a "Founding Father" and his significant contributions to American history, diplomacy, and the printing of early colonial currency. The Treasury Department has the authority to select individuals who represent the country's heritage, and being a president is not a requirement.

Is there a 100 dollar bill with a different person on it?

In the early history of U.S. currency, different people appeared on various types of 100 dollar notes. For example, James Monroe appeared on the 1901 Legal Tender Note, and Thomas Hart Benton appeared on the 1882 Gold Certificate. However, since the standardization of Federal Reserve Notes in 1914, Benjamin Franklin has been the only person featured.

What is the blue ribbon on the new 100 dollar bill?

The blue ribbon is a 3D Security Ribbon. It is made of hundreds of thousands of microlenses that create the illusion of moving bells and numbers. It is woven into the paper fibers, not printed, making it one of the most difficult security features for counterfeiters to replicate.

Can I still use 100 dollar bills from the 1980s or 1990s?

Yes, all U.S. currency remains legal tender regardless of when it was issued. However, because older bills lack the modern security features (like the blue ribbon and the watermark), banks or businesses may subject them to extra scrutiny to ensure they are authentic.

How can I tell if a 100 dollar bill is real without a special pen?

The most reliable way is to check the 3D security ribbon (move it to see if the bells change to 100s) and the watermark of Franklin to the right of the portrait. You should also feel for the "raised printing" on Franklin's shoulder. Counterfeit detection pens are often unreliable as they only detect the chemistry of the paper, not the security features of the print.

When will the 100 dollar bill be redesigned again?

The Treasury Department typically redesigns currency every 10 to 15 years to stay ahead of counterfeiting technology. While no official date has been set for a post-2013 redesign as of early 2026, the government continuously monitors the security of the current "Blue Note" series.

Summary of Next Steps for Verification

If you are handling a high volume of 100 dollar bills or are concerned about a specific note, your first action should be to visit the U.S. Currency Education Program website (the official government resource). They provide high-resolution images and interactive tools to help you identify every security feature on the current and previous series of the 100 dollar bill. If you suspect you have a counterfeit bill, do not attempt to spend it; instead, contact your local police department or the U.S. Secret Service.