One of the most iconic pieces of American currency is the U.S. $100 bill - specifically, the Series of 1928 design. This bill has been in circulation for almost a century, and has undergone various design updates over the years. But what makes this particular series so special? Let’s take a closer look.
The Design
The Series of 1928 design features an engraving of Benjamin Franklin on the front, along with his signature. The back of the bill depicts Independence Hall in Philadelphia. The bill measures 7.4218 inches by 3.125 inches, and is printed on a special blend of 75% cotton and 25% linen.
The History
The Series of 1928 bill was first introduced in 1929, shortly after the stock market crash that led to the Great Depression. At the time, the U.S. government was looking for ways to revive the economy and stabilize the financial system. One of the solutions was to redesign the country’s currency to make it more difficult to counterfeit.
The Series of 1928 bill was the first to feature a standardized design across all denominations (previously, each denomination had its own unique design). The bill also included various anti-counterfeiting measures, such as fine line engraving and microprinting.
Over the years, the design of the bill has undergone several changes. In 1996, a new Series of 1996 design was introduced, which featured a larger portrait of Benjamin Franklin and several new security features. The Series of 1996 bill is still in circulation today, but the Series of 1928 remains a popular collector’s item.
The Value
The value of a Series of 1928 bill varies depending on a number of factors, including its condition, rarity, and historical significance. Bills that are in pristine condition and have serial numbers that are low or have repeating digits can fetch thousands of dollars at auction. However, even bills that are in poor condition can still have value to collectors.
One of the most valuable Series of 1928 bills is the $100 bill from the Atlanta district. The bill features a star note (meaning it was printed to replace a defective or damaged bill) and has a low serial number (00000469). This bill sold for over $300,000 at auction in 2016.
Conclusion
The U.S. $100 bill - Series of 1928 is a fascinating piece of American history. It represents a time when the country was in the midst of a financial crisis, and the government was searching for ways to restore stability. Today, the bill is a popular collector’s item and a reminder of the country’s resilience in the face of adversity.
