In honor of President’s Day, here are some fun facts about our paper notes.

How long do U.S. bills last in circulation?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP), the average lifespans for bills are:
$1 – 22 months
$5 – 16 months
$10 – 18 months
$20 bill – 24 months
$50 bill – 55 months
$100 bill – 89 months

Has there ever been any women on our paper bills?

Yes. In 1886 and 1891, Martha Washington was the face of the $1 Silver Certificate, and in 1896, she was on the back of the $1 Silver Certificate.

It’s all just fun and games.

There are more Monopoly bills in “circulation” than real money.

 Lots of George to go around.

Almost 50% of ALL paper notes in U.S. currency are $1 bills.

Is it really worth it?

It costs 2.4 cents to manufacture a single penny.

90% of dollar bills

Contain traces of cocaine.

How did the first credit card come about?

The first credit card was invented by an embarrassed man who had to pay for dinner, but forgot his wallet.

$844.80:

how much it would be if you laid out pennies end-to-end for a mile. If you laid out pennies from coast-to-coast across the continental U.S., it would be about $2.5 million wide.

25 years

The usual length of time that coins survive in circulation.

The biggest bill ever printed?

In 1934, the $100,000 bill featuring President Woodrow Wilson.