Whos On The 100 Dollar Bill: The Story Behind Benjamin Franklin's Iconic Portrait

The $100 bill features Benjamin Franklin, a statesman and inventor who never served as U.S. President. This choice reflects his foundational role in shaping American finance and diplomacy. The portrait has remained largely unchanged for decades, symbolizing stability and trust in U.S. currency.

Since its redesign in 2013, the note incorporates advanced security features while honoring a legacy rooted in the nation’s founding era. Understanding whose face graces this denomination reveals much about the values and history embedded in American paper money.

Why Benjamin Franklin?

Benjamin Franklin was selected to appear on the $100 bill primarily due to his immense contributions to the early United States. Unlike many other Founding Fathers who held presidential office, Franklin’s influence spanned diplomacy, science, and finance.

• Signer of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution
• Key negotiator in securing French support during the Revolutionary War
• Founder of the first public library and postal system in America
• Inventor and scientist known for groundbreaking work with electricity

“Franklin embodies the spirit of innovation and diplomacy that helped shape the United States,” notes Dr. Emily Hart, a historian at the American Historical Association. “His presence on the hundred-dollar bill is a nod to his multifaceted impact beyond politics.”

Evolution of the $100 Bill Design

The design of the $100 bill has evolved significantly since its inception. Originally, various historical figures and allegorical symbols appeared on early iterations of the note. Over time, standardization led to the consistent use of Benjamin Franklin.

1. 1914: First $100 Federal Reserve Note introduced with portraits of multiple leaders
2. 1928: Size standardized; Franklin featured prominently
3. 1990: Addition of microprinting and security threads
4. 2009: Series 2009 update enhanced color complexity and watermark detail
5. 2013: Major redesign with 3D security ribbon and color-shifting ink

The 2013 redesign marked one of the most significant updates in decades, incorporating cutting-edge anti-counterfeiting technology while preserving the iconic image of Franklin.

Security Features of the $100 Bill

To combat counterfeiting, the $100 bill includes several sophisticated security measures. These features are carefully integrated into the design to ensure authenticity without compromising accessibility.

Key security elements include:

• 3D Security Ribbon: Woven into the paper, it displays images of bells and 100s as it is tilted
• Color-Shifting Ink: Used for the bell in the inkwell, which changes from copper to green
• Watermark: A faint image of Franklin located to the right of the portrait
• Security Thread: Embedded vertically into the paper, readable under UV light
• Microprinting: Tiny text along the borders that is difficult to reproduce

These features reflect the ongoing battle between currency creators and counterfeiters, ensuring public confidence in the integrity of U.S. paper money.

Public Perception and Cultural Impact

Benjamin Franklin’s image on the $100 bill has become deeply ingrained in popular culture. The phrase “having Benjamin’s” is often used colloquially to refer to having $100, highlighting the currency’s role in everyday transactions and symbolism.

Despite being older than the United States itself in some cases, Franklin’s likeness remains instantly recognizable. His portrait is featured not only on currency but also on buildings, stamps, and countless forms of media.

“Franklin represents a pragmatic thinker who helped lay the groundwork for modern financial systems,” explains James Langley, a numismatist based in New York. “Seeing him on the hundred-dollar bill keeps his legacy alive in a very tangible way.”

Comparisons with Other Denominations

Each U.S. currency denomination features historical figures who played pivotal roles in the nation’s development. Comparing these choices provides insight into the values prioritized by the country.

Notably, Franklin is the only non-president featured on currently circulating paper currency, underscoring his unique status as a founding figure who operated outside the executive branch.

Collectibility and Rare Versions

While most $100 bills remain in circulation, certain versions hold significant value for collectors. Serial numbers, misprints, and series years can dramatically affect a note’s worth.

• 1928 Gold Certificate: Features a distinct golden seal and design
• 1934 Series: Includes variations in seals and signatures
• 1953A Series: Last series before the 1960s redesigns
• 1963 Series: First to include the motto “In God We Trust”
• 1996 Series: Early modern design before 2013 overhaul

Collectors often seek out notes with star symbols in serial numbers or those from limited print runs. However, the 2013 and later series remain common and widely used in daily transactions.

The Future of the $100 Bill

As digital payment methods continue to grow, the role of physical currency is evolving. Despite this shift, the $100 bill remains in high demand, both domestically and internationally.

According to the Federal Reserve, more $100 bills are held outside the United States than any other denomination. This global use speaks to the bill’s reputation for stability and trust.

“The hundred-dollar bill functions as a form of stored value worldwide,” says financial analyst Robert Chen. “Its design may change, but its function as a trusted medium remains constant.”

Future updates to the $100 bill will likely continue to balance tradition with innovation, ensuring that Franklin’s image endures alongside advancing security technology. While the means of transaction may change, the symbolism embedded in Whos On The 100 Dollar Bill remains a powerful representation of American history and identity.