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The United States has a long history of issuing paper currency, with many denominations featuring portraits of famous figures from American history. While the $1 bill features George Washington and the $5 bill portrays Abraham Lincoln, some of the lesser-used denominations are less well-known. One such denomination is the $2 bill, which features a portrait of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States.
History of the $2 Bill
The $2 bill has a long history in the United States. The first $2 bills were issued in 1862, during the Civil War, as part of a series of new denominations intended to help finance the war effort. At that time, the $2 bill featured a portrait of Alexander Hamilton, who was then the Secretary of the Treasury. This original design was used until 1869, when it was replaced by a new design featuring a portrait of Salmon P. Chase, who had served as Secretary of the Treasury during the Civil War.
The current design of the $2 bill, featuring Thomas Jefferson, was first introduced in 1976 as part of the United States Bicentennial celebration. The design was meant to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, which Jefferson had helped author. Since then, the $2 bill has been periodically issued by the Federal Reserve, although it remains one of the least commonly used denominations in circulation.
Who Was Thomas Jefferson?
Thomas Jefferson was born in Virginia in 1743 and grew up on his family’s plantation. He was educated at the College of William and Mary and went on to become a lawyer, politician, and statesman. In 1776, he was one of the primary drafters of the Declaration of Independence, which declared the American colonies’ independence from Great Britain. Jefferson also served as the United States Minister to France, the first Secretary of State, and the third President of the United States.
As President, Jefferson is known for his efforts to expand the United States’ territory with the Louisiana Purchase and for his support of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. He was also a strong advocate for individual rights and freedoms, including freedom of speech and religion. Jefferson died in 1826, on the same day as his fellow Founding Father John Adams.
Why Was Jefferson Chosen for the $2 Bill?
There are several reasons why Thomas Jefferson was chosen to appear on the $2 bill. The first is his role in drafting the Declaration of Independence, which remains one of the most important documents in American history. By featuring Jefferson’s portrait on the $2 bill, the United States was able to commemorate the bicentennial of this historic event.
In addition to his role in drafting the Declaration of Independence, Jefferson was also an important figure in early American government. As the third President of the United States, he helped establish many of the principles and practices that still guide the country today. By featuring his portrait on the $2 bill, the United States was able to honor his contributions to American political and cultural life.
Finally, Jefferson’s image has long been associated with the values of democracy and individual liberty. His advocacy for these principles, along with his belief in limited government and the separation of church and state, have made him an enduring symbol of American ideals. By featuring Jefferson on the $2 bill, the United States was able to celebrate these values and remind citizens of their importance.
The Significance of the $2 Bill Today
Despite its relatively low use, the $2 bill remains an important part of American currency. Its design serves as a reminder of the country’s rich history and the contributions of its most important figures. Additionally, the $2 bill is sometimes used as a good luck charm or novelty item, making it a unique and interesting piece of currency.
As a government-issued denomination, the $2 bill is also subject to certain regulations and restrictions. For example, it is illegal to deface or alter currency in any way, including adding signatures, drawings, or other markings. Similarly, it is illegal to use currency for purposes not intended by the government, such as advertising or gambling.
The Dirty “Tom”
One of the reasons the $2 bill was never widely circulated is thought to be due to its negative reputation.
An urban legend claims that at one time, election rigging was common and the reward for a favorable vote was $2. There was a belief that politicians would purchase votes for $2 therefore, having a $2 bill could be seen as evidence that you had sold your vote. While most likely an urban legend, the myth still gave the bill a sinister reputation.
In the early 1920s, Prostitution was $2.00 a trick, leading some to refer to the bill as a “whore note.”The gambling tracks have a $2.00 window, and if you won, many times you were paid in $2.00 bills. If you were caught with $2’s in your wallet it could lead people to assume you were a gambler.The $2 bill was often thought to be bad luck, as “deuce” was a name for the devil. Recipients would tear off one corner, believing it would negate the bad luck of the bill. This caused many of the bills to be taken out of circulation as mutilated currency.The poor “Tom” couldn’t catch a break! The public didn’t want to use these bills, so the Federal Reserve found a way to recover the cost of printing. From World War II until at least the 1980s, you could find sweet old “Tom” getting a workout in Military pay envelopes, USOs, Post Exchanges, commissaries, and wherever you find soldiers.
Conclusion
The $2 bill may not be as well-known as some of the other denominations in American currency, but it remains an important symbol of the country’s history and values. Featuring a portrait of Thomas Jefferson, one of the most important figures in American politics and culture, the $2 bill serves as a reminder of the principles that have shaped the United States into the country it is today. While it may not be used as often as other denominations, the $2 bill remains a unique and interesting piece of American currency that is sure to continue to fascinate collectors and history buffs alike.
