Why Is Benjamin Franklin On The 100 Bill History Reasons

Benjamin Franklin’s presence on the U.S. $100 bill is more than a nod to a Founding Father—it’s a deliberate recognition of his unparalleled contributions to American society, science, diplomacy, and governance. While other founding figures like Washington and Jefferson appear on lower denominations, Franklin holds the distinction of being the only non-president featured on widely circulated U.S. currency today. His placement on the highest commonly used banknote reflects not just respect, but reverence for a man whose influence extended far beyond politics.

A Legacy Beyond Politics

Unlike George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, or Abraham Lincoln, Benjamin Franklin never served as president of the United States. Yet his role in shaping the nation was foundational. He was a polymath—scientist, inventor, writer, diplomat, and philosopher—whose work helped define the intellectual and civic spirit of early America. Franklin’s fingerprints are on nearly every major institution of the young republic: from the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution to the first public library, fire department, and postal system.

His diplomatic service during the American Revolution was crucial. As ambassador to France, Franklin secured vital French support—both financial and military—that proved decisive in winning independence from Britain. His charm, intellect, and reputation gave him extraordinary access to European elites, turning skepticism about the American cause into tangible aid.

“Franklin embodied the Enlightenment ideal: reason applied to practical problems for the benefit of all.” — Dr. Laura Mitchell, Historian of Early America

The Evolution of U.S. Currency Design

The choice of who appears on American money has always carried symbolic weight. The Bureau of Engraving and Printing, under the Department of the Treasury, oversees currency design, balancing historical significance, public recognition, and national values.

The $100 bill first entered circulation in 1860 as part of the Demand Notes series. Over time, its design evolved. Franklin was officially placed on the front of the $100 bill in 1914 when the Federal Reserve began issuing currency. At that time, the decision reflected a desire to honor individuals who contributed broadly to American prosperity and identity—not just political leaders.

By choosing Franklin, the Treasury highlighted wisdom, innovation, and civic responsibility over military leadership or executive power. This set a precedent: while presidents dominate lower denominations, the $100 bill celebrates a different kind of greatness—one rooted in intellect, public service, and enduring contribution.

Tip: When examining a $100 bill, look for the raised printing, color-shifting bell-in-inkwell, and 3D security ribbon—modern anti-counterfeiting features added in 2013.

Why Franklin—and Not Someone Else?

Several factors explain why Franklin remains on the $100 bill, despite periodic calls to change U.S. currency (such as proposals to feature women or civil rights leaders):

• Universal Respect: Franklin is one of the few historical figures admired across ideological lines. His achievements in science, education, and diplomacy transcend partisan divides.
• Global Recognition: Outside the U.S., Franklin is often the most recognizable American of the 18th century, making the $100 bill instantly identifiable worldwide.
• Symbol of Self-Made Success: Franklin’s rise from printer’s apprentice to international statesman embodies the American Dream, reinforcing national ideals of opportunity and merit.
• Financial Acumen: As the first Postmaster General and an early advocate for fiscal responsibility, he laid groundwork for economic infrastructure—a fitting association with high-value currency.

No other founder so seamlessly bridged science, civic life, and international relations. Even his scientific breakthroughs—like identifying electricity as a natural force—enhanced America’s global prestige.

Franklin’s Role in Establishing Financial Trust

Long before central banking, Franklin understood the importance of stable currency. In colonial Pennsylvania, he championed paper money backed by land value, arguing it would stimulate trade without causing inflation. His pamphlet Modest Inquiry into the Nature and Necessity of a Paper Currency (1729) became a foundational text in early American economics.

He also fought against counterfeiting by introducing intricate engravings and using nature prints—impressions of leaves—to create unique patterns on bills, a primitive form of security printing. These innovations established early standards for trustworthy money, making his image on modern currency especially appropriate.

Feature	Historical Significance	Modern Relevance
Portrait of Franklin	Honors civic virtue and intellectual leadership	Maintains continuity and global recognition
Liberty Bell & Inkwell (color-shifting)	Symbolizes American independence and Franklin’s writings	Anti-counterfeit measure; engages public interest
3D Security Ribbon	N/A – Modern addition	Prevents forgery through optical illusion technology
Signature of Treasurer & Secretary	Reflects accountability in financial systems	Current officials sign each bill batch

Timeline of the $100 Bill’s Design Changes

The appearance of the $100 bill has evolved significantly, though Franklin’s portrait has remained constant since 1914. Key milestones include:

1. 1863: First $100 Legal Tender Note issued, featuring President Abraham Lincoln.
2. 1914: Federal Reserve Note introduced; Franklin selected for new $100 bill design.
3. 1929: Standardized smaller-size bills; Franklin retained amid redesign.
4. 1990: Introduction of microprinting and security thread.
5. 2013: Major redesign with blue 3D security ribbon, color-shifting bell, and improved watermark.

The 2013 update was delayed due to production flaws but ultimately enhanced both security and public engagement. The interactive elements invite users to “look for the light,” encouraging scrutiny that deters counterfeiters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Was Benjamin Franklin ever president of the United States?

No, Franklin never held the office of president. However, he served in critical roles including delegate to the Constitutional Convention, ambassador to France, and signer of both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.

Why isn’t there a woman on the $100 bill?

In 2015, the Treasury announced plans to feature Harriet Tubman on the $20 bill, sparking debate about representation. While Tubman’s image was slated to replace Andrew Jackson, progress stalled. Advocates continue pushing for greater diversity in currency, but Franklin remains on the $100 bill due to his broad historical significance and international stature.

Is the $100 bill the most counterfeited U.S. note?

While the $100 bill is frequently counterfeited abroad due to its use in international transactions, the U.S. Secret Service reports that modern security features have drastically reduced successful forgeries. Most fake bills are detected at banks or border checkpoints.

Expert Insight: What Franklin Represents Today

In an era where trust in institutions is fragile, Franklin’s legacy offers a model of pragmatic integrity. He believed in self-improvement, civic duty, and the power of reason—all values embedded in the nation’s financial credibility.

“Putting Franklin on the $100 bill isn’t just about honoring the past. It’s a statement: America values wisdom, ingenuity, and honesty in its foundations—including its money.” — James Carter, Senior Curator, National Numismatic Collection

Actionable Tips for Understanding U.S. Currency

Tip: Teach children to identify historical figures on bills—this builds financial literacy and historical awareness simultaneously.

• Examine your $100 bill under light to see the watermark of Franklin on the right edge.
• Tilt the bill to observe the color-shifting bell inside the inkwell turn from copper to green.
• Feel the texture: genuine bills use raised printing, giving Franklin’s shoulder and collar a distinct bump.
• Use the U.S. Currency Education Program website to verify authenticity and learn more about security features.

Conclusion: A Symbol Worth Preserving

Benjamin Franklin’s place on the $100 bill is not accidental—it is earned. His life exemplified the qualities necessary for building and sustaining a free, prosperous society: curiosity, diligence, diplomacy, and moral clarity. In a world where currency can be digital and fleeting, the image of Franklin serves as a reminder that true value lies not just in numbers, but in the principles behind them.

Every time you hold a $100 bill, you’re holding more than legal tender. You’re holding a piece of history, a tribute to one of the most influential minds in American history. Rather than seeing it merely as money, consider it a miniature monument—one that inspires us to think critically, act responsibly, and contribute meaningfully to society.

💬 What do you think? Should historical figures on U.S. currency reflect broader diversity, or does Franklin’s presence represent timeless values worth preserving? Share your thoughts and keep the conversation about history, identity, and money alive.