The United States two-dollar bill ($2) is a current denomination of U.S. currency. A portrait of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, is featured on the front of the bill. Despite its prevalence, many Americans are unaware of the significance of the $2 bill. This article will explore the history, value, and political implications of the $2 bill.
History The two-dollar bill has a long and storied history dating back to the 1800s. It was first issued in 1862 in response to increased demand for paper money. Initially, it was fairly common and was printed until 1966. It was then discontinued due to its unpopularity, with the last of the original two-dollar bills being printed in 1966. After the discontinuation of the bill, it was not printed again until 1976 when it was reintroduced as part of the United States Bicentennial celebration. Since then, the two-dollar bill has been printed intermittently, with the most recent prints being released in 2003.
Value The value of the two-dollar bill varies depending on its age and condition. Any $2 bill dating back to 1976 that has been in circulation—and any uncirculated versions since 2003—are worth only their face value, which is $2. However, older bills in pristine condition can be worth much more. For example, rare bills from the 1800s in uncirculated condition can be worth up to $4,500.