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 $100 notes were issued in March 1996. 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 to the left of the portrait indicates the $100 denomination. The words “USA 100” and a flag can be seen from both sides against a light. The thread glows red under an ultraviolet light.
- Watermark. A watermark of Franklin (identical to the portrait) is located in the blank space to the right of the portrait, and 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 high contrast numeral does not appear on the back of early redesigned $100 notes; however, it will be incorporated on the back lower right corner of future $100 notes.
- Fine Line Printing. The fine lines printed behind the portrait and building are difficult to replicate.
- Microprinting. On the front of the bill, “USA 100” is repeated within the number 100 in the lower left corner. “The United States of America” appears as a line in the left lapel of Franklin’s coat.