WalletPop.com posted an interesting article earlier in the week with some fascinating facts about U.S. currency. Over the past 200 years our currency has gone through many changes, and it's interesting to think that there is so much history behind those bills we all carry in our wallets. Check out a few items from WalletPop.com's list below.
1. What is the typical lifespan of a dollar bill?
That depends on the denomination of the note. Here are the average lifespans according to the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing (or the BEP):
$1 bill - 22 months
$5 bill - 16 months
$10 bill -18 months
$20 bill - 24 months
$50 bill - 55 months
$100 bill - 89 months
Bills that get worn out from everyday use are taken out of circulation and replaced. Coins usually survive in circulation for about 25 years.
2. What percentage of bills are $1 notes?
Just under half of the notes printed by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing are $1 notes. In fiscal year 2009, the exact percentage was 42.3%.
3. Has a woman's portrait ever appeared on U.S. paper money?
Martha Washington is the only woman whose portrait has appeared on a U.S. currency note. It appeared on the face of the $1 Silver Certificate of 1886 and 1891, and the back of the $1 Silver Certificate of 1896.