The USA released its new 100-dollar bill in October 2013. This new bill came with some vital features. Gaining info about this new bank note helps in business transactions physically and online. Read on for more information.
Advantages of the New 100-Dollar Bill
Money plays a pivotal role in our day-to-day lives. The new $100 note incorporates an innovative design and high-level security features, making it a currency wonder. The bill is aesthetically pleasing, hard to fabricate, and very durable. Here are some of the key advantages of the new 100-dollar note.
High-level Security Features
Currency duplication is a problem the Federal Reserve has faced for years. Counterfeiters have come up with innovative ways to forge different currency denominations. To stay ahead of forgers, USA Federal Reserve banks have heightened security features in paper currencies.
The new $100 banknote features advanced security features such as 3D security ribbons, micro-printing, and watermarks, which make it extremely difficult for forgers to duplicate the note.
Durable
Compared to previous versions of the $100 bill, the new bill is relatively more durable. It can circulate for years without wearing out. This is facilitated by the high-quality paper material used to make the bill. The ability to last longer saves the government money spent on frequent replacements.
Accessibility Features
The new 100-dollar note comes with elaborate accessibility features that make it user-friendly even for persons with visual impairment. The bill utilizes raised printing which makes it possible to distinguish a denomination by touch.
Also, the note also utilizes high-contrast numerals which are comparatively larger making it easier for the visually impaired to identify the note.
Aesthetically Appealing
Although the primary role of any currency denomination is to facilitate transactions. However, a currency can serve other purposes such as communicating a country’s history and culture. The new 100-dollar bill achieves this thanks to an updated design and more complex security features. The note features enlarged portraits of Benjamin Franklin on the front and the Independence Hall on the back. The attention to detail is immaculate and this makes the bill aesthetically pleasing.
Global Recognition
Owing to its complex security features and aesthetic value, the new $100 bill is well-regarded and revered locally and globally. This recognition has seen the bill become very stable and it has also driven up its usage locally and internationally. The bill’s advanced security features foster trust among users.
New 100 Dollars Bill Features
The $100 bill is one of America’s most circulated denominations. It was introduced by the United States Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) and it features advanced security features aimed at deterring counterfeiting. Here are the primary features exhibited by the new 100-dollar note.
Color Shifting Ink
The new $100 note comes with a 3D security ribbon located at the note’s anterior. The ribbon is blue in color and it contains liberty bells and wordings of 100s.
When one moves or adjusts the note, the imprints tend to move or shift. The primary role of this feature is to prevent counterfeiting. Forgers find it extremely difficult to replicate the 100-dollar note thanks to the complex color-shifting ink feature.
Raised Printing
In addition to the color-shifting ink security feature, the $100 bill incorporates raised printing. Some of the lettering, as well as the Benjamin Franklin representation, are raised. One can feel the note’s texture by touching these elements. Raised printing acts as an extra layer of authentication thereby making it hard for criminals to replicate the note.
Watermark
Nearly all US dollar currencies feature a distinct watermark and for the new 100-dollar note, this is a portrait of Benjamin Franklin. This faint image is located on the note’s right side and it can be seen when the bill is held over light. The purpose of the watermark is to avert fabricating since its intricate design makes it impossible for forgers to replicate the new $100 bill.
Security Thread
The new 100-dollar note also includes a security thread that can be seen on the note’s front and back. The thread features numbers and letters, particularly USA and 100 repeated severally along the thread.
When the bill is held over light, the security thread can be seen clearly. This thread is difficult to replicate and it is one of the note’s most advanced security measures.
Micro-printing
The 100-dollar bill also features miniature and complex lettering which can be clearly seen upon magnification. The tiny text is incorporated on various parts of the $100 note including Benjamin Franklin’s coat collar.
Besides, the text is extremely difficult to reproduce and this makes it nearly impossible for counterfeiters to replicate the US dollar note.
Benjamin Franklin Portrait
One of the most visible features of the new 100-dollar note is the faint image of Benjamin Franklin. This image incorporates a 3D effect and it also improved shading. The improvements in the Franklin portrait have made it even more difficult for counterfeiters to replicate the 100-dollar currency.
The New 100 Dollar Bill Design Components
For many nations, paper currency serves a greater purpose. In addition to being a medium of exchange, money also communicates the unique history and culture of a country. The new one-hundred-dollar bill tells the unique story of America by featuring some of the nation’s key monuments. The bill is composed of the following features:
Historical Portrait
One of the most prominent and visible features of the new $100 bill is a portrait of Benjamin Franklin. He is regarded as one of the most renowned founding fathers of America and his portrait was introduced on American currency in 1914.
On the new note, this portrait is more visually striking thanks to advanced technology. It articulates the rich and proud history of America. Additionally, the Benjamin Franklin portrait helps avert counterfeiting.
Security Ribbon
The $100 note also features a blue ribbon, which runs from top to bottom. The ribbon consists of liberty bells and numerals (100) repeated severally. Upon holding the note in light, the color of the security ribbon transforms. This security ribbon provides sophisticated security against duplication given that it is very difficult to forge this ribbon.
Symbols of Independence
At the back of the new one-hundred-dollar bill is an elaborate image of the Independence Hall. The Declaration of Independence was made at the Independence Hall and the American constitution was signed there.
This hall is located in Philadelphia and it holds great significance in American History. The note also includes an inkwell of a quill pen and this symbolizes the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Federal Reserve Seal
Underneath the image of Benjamin Franklin lies a Federal Reserve seal. This seal is used to authenticate the note. The serial number of the bill also has a prefix that contains abbreviations of the federal bank that issued the bill.
Serial Number
Each 100-dollar bill is assigned a unique serial code during manufacturing. The 11-digit code features both letters and numbers. This helps identify each note and it also acts as a security feature that prevents currency counterfeiting.
General Changes in the New 100 USD Bill
While currency is a medium of exchange, the new 100 US dollar bill serves a greater purpose. The bill carries the nation’s history and culture explaining why the US Federal Reserve transformed the $100 note in 2013.
Additionally, the new note features advanced security measures and is more aesthetically pleasing compared to previous versions. Here are the changes featured on the new 100-dollar note.
Improved Security Features
With technology continually changing, designers of US currency notes face an even more difficult challenge of combating currency forgery. The new $100 note has incorporated some of the world’s most sophisticated security measures in order to prevent currency counterfeiting. Some of these security features include;
- 3D Security Thread: The new $100 note has a visible blue ribbon woven into the bill’s paper. The thread can be clearly seen when the note I held over light and it contains letterings of 100 and bell images repeated along its length.
When the note is moved, the images and letterings on the ribbon tend to move creating a 3D effect. This makes it difficult for forgers to replicate the new 100-dollar bill.
- Color-Shifting Ink: Some of the text on the new $100 note is written using color-shifting ink. For instance, the lettering of 100 on the note’s right side changes from copper to green when the bill is moved. This feature is extremely difficult to reproduce.
- Watermark: One of the easiest ways to authenticate the new 100-dollar note is to hold it in light. An image of Benjamin Franklin can be clearly seen and this acts as the currency’s watermark.
- Micro-printing: Micro-printing is one of the US dollar note’s most advanced security features. Tiny letterings are jotted down on various parts of the note such as the quill. These tiny texts are nearly impossible to reproduce and this makes it difficult for forgers to fabricate the new $100.
Colorful Design
Previous versions of the 100-dollar note featured a tinted green appearance. The new $100 note incorporates various colors including blue, gold, and green. This gives it a more colorful look that is aesthetically pleasing. The distinct colors also make it difficult for counterfeiters to fake the new 100-dollar bill.
Raised Printing
The new $100 bill incorporates raised printing on some of the lettering and images contained. For instance, the Federal Reserve crest is raised and it can be felt by touch, this feature helps the visually impaired to distinguish the bill. Additionally, raised printing advances the security features of the new 100-dollar bill.
Bigger Independence Hall Portrait
The Independence Hall is a historic landmark in the USA and it is known as the birthplace of the nation’s constitution. Its image has always been featured in American currency. However, in the new 100-dollar note, the Independence Hall image appears to be enlarged. This makes it more striking and detailed.
Increased Durability Level
The polymer material it is made of is highly durable compared to the older notes that were in use. So, they do not get destroyed or torn easily. The quality of the polymer material can be felt by texture. The note tends to last longer in comparison to previous $100 notes. The material also makes it extremely difficult for forgers to fabricate the new note.
Improved Look or Design
The design of the new 100 USD bill has been enhanced to ensure reading and recognizing is very simple. Benjamin Franklin’s portrait on the bill has been enlarged. Also, the numerals on the bill that show the denomination can be found in the lower right corner.
Security Features in New 100 Dollar Bill
To keep up with contemporary technology, the US dollar currency is constantly updated to enhance its security features. At present, the 100-dollar bill features a myriad of sophisticated security features aimed at averting currency counterfeiting. Here are the main security features incorporated in the new $100 note.
Color-Shifting Ink
The number 100 on the front of the bill has the color-shifting ink print feature. When the note is tilted, the ink color visibly shifts from copper to green. Due to this, replication using normal methods of printing cannot be achieved.
3D Security Ribbon
There is a blue ribbon in the middle of the new note. The ribbon contains imprints of bell images and letterings of 100s. These imprints have incorporated the 3D effect, which makes them move when the bill is moved. The 3D security ribbon is extremely challenging to replicate and even the most skilled counterfeiters find it difficult to fabricate the new $100 note.
Watermark
There is a faint Benjamin Franklin image on the bill’s right side. This image makes a part of the note. It was not printed on the paper. This is why it can be seen when the bill is held on both sides.
Microprinting.
There are tiny numbers and words printed around the Benjamin Franklin portrait on the bill. This was done in microprinting. The purpose of microprinting is to prevent currency replication. The tiny letters can only be seen clearly when using a magnifying lens.
Inkwell Bell.
When the bell is tilted, it is visible to see the copper inkwell change colors to green. So, the bell appears and disappears in the Inkwell.
EuRion Constellation.
Also known as the anti-counterfeit sign or symbol, the EuRion constellation is used to prevent criminals or anyone from making or reproducing images of current currency. It is printed in color yellow.
Serial Numbers.
The new 100-dollar bill features two serial numbers located on the note’s front and back. Serial numbers help with currency authentication and the two serial numbers on the bill must match for the $100 bill to be considered genuine. This complex security feature makes it impossible to reproduce the notes.
Old vs New 100 Dollar Bill
The US Federal Reserve often introduces changes to currency so as to combat currency duplication. In 2013, the 100-dollar bill underwent numerous changes, and here are the most notable differences between this new version and older versions.
| Old $100 | New $100 |
| No blue security ribbon. | Has a blue security ribbon. |
| Comes with no inkwell Bell color changes. | Has inkwell Bell color change when tilted. |
| Limited identification features. | Enhanced identification features. |
| Cannot easily withstand wear and tear. | Easily withstands wear and tear. |
| Is predominantly green in color. | Features numerous colors including blue and gold. |
| Has a faint and relatively smaller Benjamin Franklin portrait. | The Benjamin Franklin portrait appears to be bigger. |
| Has a seemingly smaller Independence Hall image. | The Independence Hall image is larger and more visually striking. |
| Does not incorporate raised printing. | Uses raised printing to help the visually impaired identify the bill. |
New 100 Dollar Bill Worth
In 2013, the United States made numerous changes to some of its paper currencies. The 100-dollar bill experienced numerous changes including design and security features. Despite the new changes introduced, the new $100 bill value remains the same.
There are, however, some unique 100-dollar notes that are worth a bit more. These notes feature unique serial numbers and are often bought as collectibles or treasures. Furthermore, there are 100-dollar bills that go for as high as a few million dollars. These are mostly old versions of the currency (pre-1914).
New 100 Dollar Note Serial Number
Serial numbers act as distinct identifiers and each USA paper currency is assigned a unique serial number. The $100 bill features an eleven-digit serial number composed of numbers and letters.
Besides, the purpose of the serial number is to help in currency authentification and avert duplication. This serial code can be seen on the note’s top right corner as well as on the note’s left bottom corner. This is on the bill’s front face.
Additionally, the code features two prefix letters and one suffix letter. In between the letters are numbers which help identify each bill.
The prefix letters identify the Federal Reserve Bank that is responsible for issuing the $100 note. Besides, the suffix letter, on the other hand, serves as a checksum. It helps ascertain the accuracy of the bill’s serial number.
FAQs
1. Can the New 100 Dollar Bill be Tracked?
No. It cannot be tracked. Tracking necessitates the incorporation of tracking technology such as GPS and the new 100-dollar note does not feature tracking technology. This applies to all currency denominations in the USA. The bill however utilizes serial codes, which help authenticate the currency and avert counterfeiting.
2. How do you Determine a Fake New 100 Dollar Bill?
Monet forgers have become more sophisticated as technology develops even more. This has made determining fake currency quite difficult but there are numerous ways one can apply to identify fake bank notes.
You can know a fake new 100 Dollar bill by checking the following security features:
- Feel the Paper: The new $100 bill uses a unique and high-quality paper material with a rough texture. Feeling the paper can help you distinguish fake money.
- Examine the Watermark: The note comes with a Benjamin Franklin watermark, which can be clearly seen once the bill is held to light.
- Look for Color-Shifting Ink: Some numerals on the note are inscribed using color-shifting ink. When the note is moved, the ink changes color from copper to green.
- Check the Security Thread: The 100-dollar bill has a thin strip embedded in the note. To check this security thread, bring the bill to light and you will see liberty bells and numerals of 100 within the thread.
- Check the Serial Number: In fake 100-dollar bills, the serial number may be irregularly spaced. Original notes are evenly spaced and they share the same color as the Federal Reserve seal.
- Use Counterfeit Detectors: There are numerous counterfeit detectors such as the detector pen, which uses special ink to determine fake currency. The ink changes color when the $100 bill is fake.
1. When was the New 100 USD Note Issued?
The new 100 USD note was first unleashed to the public in April 2013. Its circulation however began on the 8th of October, 2013. The new bill came with a range of new modifications aimed at deterring currency forgery. The changes also made the note more visually pleasing compared to past notes.
2. Why Was the 100 Dollar Bill Redesigned?
In recent years, counterfeiters have invented sophisticated means of faking the 100-dollar bill. The bill is worth a lot and for this reason, it is often a target for counterfeiters. To deter the forgery attempts, the United States redesigned the 100-dollar bill in 2013. The transformation was initiated so as to discourage criminals from duplicating the note. The redesigning also elevated the bill’s aesthetic value and made it easier for the visually impaired to use.
3. Can You Exchange the Old $100 Bills for the New $100 Bills?
Yes. Despite the new one-hundred-dollar bill being introduced in 2013, the old bill still remains active. All banks in the United States still honor the old bills. However, you can change your old bills to the new versions by exchanging them at your nearest bank.
Since it was introduced to the public, the new 100-dollar note has been warmly received. It incorporates a myriad of new features which have greatly elevated its security and aesthetic appeal. The note is a testament to the nation’s commitment to progress, security, and anti-counterfeiting.