Who's On A $100 Bill

So, you've been wondering who's the face on that crisp $100 bill, huh? The one that's been burning a hole in your pocket, or maybe just chilling in your wallet, being all mysterious and whatnot. Well, grab a coffee, get comfy, 'cause we're about to spill the beans on good ol' Benjamin Franklin.

Now, you might be thinking, "Ben who now?" Kidding aside, Benjamin Franklin is a name that's been making waves since the 18th century. He was an American polymath, which is just a fancy way of saying he was a jack of all trades. We're talking scientist, inventor, diplomat, writer, and oh yeah, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. Quite the resume, huh?

But why him on the $100 bill?

Great question! In 1914, the U.S. Treasury decided to put famous Americans on paper currency. They started with small bills, but by 1928, they'd worked their way up to the big leagues - the $100 bill. And who did they choose? None other than Benjamin Franklin.

You might be wondering, "Why not George Washington or Abraham Lincoln? They're on the $1 and $5 bills respectively." Well, my friend, it's all about the order in which they died. Franklin was the last surviving founding father, so he got the honor of gracing the largest bill at the time.

Meet Mr. Franklin

So, what did this guy do to deserve such an honor? Let's dive in. Born in 1706, Franklin was a true Renaissance man. He helped draft the Declaration of Independence, negotiated the 1783 Treaty of Paris that ended the American Revolution, and was one of the signers of the U.S. Constitution.

But that's not all, folks! Franklin was also a scientist and inventor. He discovered that lightning and electricity were related - you know, just a casual experiment with a kite and a key. He also invented the lightning rod, bifocals, and the Franklin stove. Talk about a multitasker!

And if that wasn't enough, Franklin was also a diplomat, serving as an ambassador to France. He was so popular there that they named a type of hat after him - the "franklin" or "frankingston." Now that's influencer status!

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From coins to cash

Now, you might be thinking, "I've seen other faces on $100 bills. What gives?" Well, my curious friend, the $100 bill has had a few makeovers since 1928. The first major redesign happened in 1996, and that's when we got the current Benjamin Franklin we know and love today.

But here's a fun fact: Franklin's face isn't the only thing on the $100 bill. The back features an engraving of Independence Hall, the building where the Declaration of Independence was signed. Pretty fitting, huh?

Meet the new kid on the block

In 2013, the Treasury announced plans to redesign the $100 bill again. And who do you think they chose to replace Franklin? None other than Harriet Tubman, the abolitionist and leader of the Underground Railroad. Talk about a powerful woman making history!

But don't worry, Franklin fans. The new $100 bill isn't scheduled to come out until 2026, and even then, Franklin will still be on the $50 bill. So, you'll still have plenty of chances to keep your favorite founding father in your pocket.

And there you have it, folks! The story behind the face on the $100 bill. Pretty cool, huh? Next time you whip out a Benjamin, you can impress your friends with your newfound knowledge. Just don't spend it all in one place, okay?