4 Weirdly True Facts About US Currency
It's entirely possible you've never stopped to question how the money you carry in your pockets is made or why it looks the way it does. United States currency has been around for more than 100 years, yet many of its quirks still surprise those unfamiliar to this day.
From what dollar bills are actually made of to the largest denomination in existence, the following odd factoids about money reveal how cash was designed to last, protect value and adapt to the real world.
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1. Paper Money Is Not Actually Paper
According to the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, U.S. "paper" currency is actually made up of about 75% cotton and 25% linen. A special thread is woven into bills valued at $5 and above and, for $100 bills, a 3D blue security ribbon is woven in featuring images such as bells and 100s that shift as the bill moves.
2. There's a Reason US Currency Is Green
When the U.S. first began issuing paper money in 1861, green ink was chosen to prevent photographic counterfeits, according to History.com. That's because, at the time, cameras could only take pictures in black and white.
Today, it continues to be used because it's the most durable color; it naturally resists fading, flaking and discoloration. Green also is associated with growth and stability, which is remarkably on the nose when you consider the security that comes from having plenty of this green stuff at your disposal.
3. $1 Bills Used To Last Just 18 Months
Small bills like the $1 are the most likely to be shoved into vending machines and crumpled up in pockets, so it's no wonder they don't last long. According to the Federal Reserve, a $1 bill used to last just 18 months in 1990. As of 2025, the bill can last up to 7.2 years.
A $5 bill, on the other hand, lasts 5.8 years, while $10 bills last 5.7 years, $20 bills last 11.1 years, $50 bills lasts 14.9 years and $100 bills are expected to last 24 years.
4. The Highest Denomination for a Public Bill Was $10,000
The $10,000 bill was the highest denomination the federal government circulated for public use. The government stopped production of the $10,000 bill in 1969. The bill was first printed in 1918 and featured Salmon P. Chase, a former Treasury secretary rather than a U.S. president.
Martin Dasko contributed to the reporting for this article.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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