The 100 dollar bill, a ubiquitous symbol of wealth and prosperity, is not just a piece of paper with a number on it. It's a canvas that tells a story, a story etched into the minds of Americans and the world through its iconic image. But what picture is on the 100 dollar bill?
At the center of the 100 dollar bill lies the portrait of the United States' 16th President, Abraham Lincoln. But his image is not the only notable feature on this high denomination note. Let's delve into the details and history behind the 100 dollar bill's design.
The Face of the 100 Dollar Bill: Abraham Lincoln
The primary image on the 100 dollar bill is that of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States. Lincoln, who led the country through its most trying time, the American Civil War, is a revered figure in American history. His portrait has been a staple on the 100 dollar bill since 1914, making it one of the most recognizable images on U.S. currency.
Lincoln's portrait, designed by Victor D. Brenner, is featured on the front of the bill, facing left. The image is a side-profile view of Lincoln, with his name inscribed below. But the design of this portrait is not without its controversies. Initially, the portrait was criticized for not resembling Lincoln closely enough. However, over time, it has become an iconic symbol of the 100 dollar bill.
The Inverted Pyramid and Lincoln Memorial
Behind Lincoln's portrait, a complex and intricate design unfolds. The most striking feature is the inverted pyramid, a symbol of strength and stability, which is a nod to the Great Seal of the United States. Inside the pyramid, the words "ONE HUNDRED UNITED STATES DOLLARS" are inscribed, with the number "100" prominently displayed at the top.
The pyramid is also home to several smaller images. At the base, the year of issue is printed, with the words "IN GOD WE TRUST" inscribed above it. Above the pyramid, a smaller image of the Lincoln Memorial is depicted, with the words "LINCOLN MEMORIAL" inscribed below it. This design element serves as a reminder of Lincoln's legacy and the enduring impact of his leadership on the nation's capital.
The Security Features of the 100 Dollar Bill
While the image of Abraham Lincoln is the most recognizable feature of the 100 dollar bill, it's not the only notable aspect. The 100 dollar bill is also packed with security features designed to protect it from counterfeiting. One of the most prominent features is the color-shifting ink used in the number "100" at the bottom of the bill. When tilted, the color of the ink shifts from copper to green, a feature that is difficult to replicate.
Another security feature is the security thread, which is embedded in the paper and runs vertically. When held up to light, the thread becomes visible and displays the words "USA 100" and a small flag. Additionally, the 100 dollar bill also features a watermark, which can be seen when the bill is held up to light. The watermark is an image of Lincoln, similar to the one on the front of the bill, but with a slightly different design.
The Back of the 100 Dollar Bill: A Salute to American Industry
The back of the 100 dollar bill features a vibrant and intricate design that pays homage to American industry and innovation. The centerpiece of this design is the image of an unfinished pyramid, a symbol of the nation's ongoing progress and development. The pyramid is surrounded by a wreath, with the words "THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" inscribed above it.
The back of the 100 dollar bill also features several smaller images and symbols. At the top, the words "IN GOD WE TRUST" are inscribed, with the year of issue printed below it. The number "100" is also prominently displayed at the bottom, with the words "ONE HUNDRED UNITED STATES DOLLARS" inscribed above it.
The Great Seal of the United States
One of the most notable features on the back of the 100 dollar bill is the Great Seal of the United States, which is depicted in the center of the wreath. The Great Seal is a symbol of the authority of the President and the federal government of the United States. It features an eagle with outstretched wings, holding arrows and an olive branch in its talons. The eagle is also depicted with a shield on its chest, a symbol of the nation's defense and protection.
The Great Seal is also home to several smaller symbols and inscriptions. The words "E PLURIBUS UNUM" are inscribed above the eagle, a phrase that means "out of many, one" and is a nod to the nation's diverse origins. The words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" are also inscribed below the eagle, with the date "1776" printed below it, a reference to the year the Declaration of Independence was signed.
The Salute to American Innovation
The back of the 100 dollar bill also features several smaller images that pay homage to American innovation and industry. At the top, a series of 13 stars are depicted, a reference to the original 13 colonies. Below the stars, a series of 13 vertical lines are depicted, a symbol of the nation's unity and strength. The lines are also a nod to the 13 bars on the flag of the United States, which represent the original 13 colonies.
At the bottom of the bill, a series of smaller images are depicted, including a gear, a beaker, and a lightbulb. These images are a salute to American innovation and ingenuity, and serve as a reminder of the nation's ongoing progress and development. The words "AMERICA" are also inscribed at the bottom of the bill, a proud declaration of the nation's identity and heritage.
In conclusion, the 100 dollar bill is more than just a piece of paper with a number on it. It's a canvas that tells a story of American history, innovation, and progress. From the iconic image of Abraham Lincoln to the intricate design on the back, the 100 dollar bill is a testament to the nation's rich heritage and enduring legacy. So the next time you hold a 100 dollar bill in your hand, take a moment to appreciate the intricate design and the story it tells. After all, it's not just money - it's a piece of history.