You probably see a dollar bill nearly every day, but do you know that the bill is a tribute to George Washington? Washington was born in 1732 in Virginia, served as commander of the Continental Army during the American Revolution, and was the first president of the United States of America—serving two terms until 1797, when he retired to his home at Mount Vernon with his wife Martha Dandridge Custis.
Across the top of the bill, it says “Federal Reserve Note.” There are 12 Federal Reserve banks in districts across the U.S. that are responsible for managing and printing our money. The Reserve Bank of Minneapolis serves Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and some northern Wisconsin counties. (Montana is fortunate to have one of the 24 nationwide branch offices in Helena on Neill Avenue.)
To the right of George’s face is the green 1789 Department of Treasury seal. The balancing scales on the seal are a universal symbol of equal justice under the law. Under the scales are 13 stars on a chevron, one for each of the original colonies. The key on the bottom signifies official treasury authority.
