The United States of America is issuing currency with new features. These features will help protect against technologies that could be used for counterfeiting. Newly designed $20 notes are being issued in fall 1998. New $50 and $100 notes have already been introduced. Lower denominations will follow. There will be no recall or devaluation of any U.S. currency. Old or new, all U.S. currency always will be honored at full face value.
- Federal Reserve Indicators. A new seal represents the entire Federal Reserve System. The letter and number under the left serial number identify the issuing Federal Reserve Bank.
- A larger, off-center portrait allows room for a watermark.
- Security Thread. A vertically embedded thread at the far left of the portrait indicates the $20 denomination. The words “USA TWENTY” and a flag can be seen from both sides against a light. The number “20” appears in the star field of the flag. The thread glows green under an ultraviolet light.
- Watermark. A watermark identical to the portrait is visible from both sides against a light.
- Color-Shifting Ink. The number in the lower right corner on the front of the note looks green when viewed straight on, but black at an angle.
- Serial Numbers. An additional letter is added to the serial number.
- Low-Vision Feature. The large numeral on the back of the $20 note is easy to read.
- Fine Line Printing. Patterns The fine lines printed behind the portrait and building are difficult to replicate.
- Microprinting. “The United States of America” is on the lower edge ornamentation of the oval framing the portrait. On the front of the note, “USA 20“ is repeated within the number in the lower left corner.