What Is a $20 Bill Called? All You Need to Know About the Twenty Dollar Bill
Ever wondered what people call a $20 bill? Uncover the history, slang, secrets, and surprising facts about America's twenty dollar bill.
Everything You Need to Know About the Twenty Dollar Bill
If you’ve ever held a $20 note in your hand, you’ve probably wondered why it looks the way it does. This guide breaks down the design, the story behind it, and the tricks you can use to make sure it’s genuine. No jargon, just straight‑forward facts you can use right away.
History and Design
The twenty dollar bill first appeared in the 1860s, right after the Civil War. Back then it featured a portrait of President Andrew Jackson, which is still there today. Over the years the bill has been updated with new security features, brighter colors, and a modern look, but the core design stays the same.
On the front you’ll see Jackson’s face, his name, and the word “United States of America.” The back shows the White House, the Treasury seal, and a series of tiny numbers that help prevent counterfeiting. The bill measures 6.14 inches by 2.61 inches, the same size as other U.S. notes, so it fits easily in wallets and cash registers.
Why the White House? It’s meant to symbolize the government’s stability. The colors—green, gray, and a hint of pink—are chosen to make the note hard to copy. If you compare a $20 to a $10, you’ll notice the shade of green is a little deeper, which is another visual cue for cashiers and users.
How to Spot a Fake and Keep Yours Safe
The most common fake $20 notes lack the security ribbon and the watermark. Hold the bill up to light – you should see a faint portrait of Jackson on the left side. The security ribbon runs vertically and changes color when you tilt the bill. If the ribbon looks flat or the watermark is missing, it’s likely a counterfeit.
Another quick test is the raised printing. Run your fingertip over the portrait and the word “Twenty.” Genuine notes feel slightly bumpy, while prints on fake bills feel smooth. Also check the serial number; each note has a unique combination of letters and numbers. If two notes have the same serial number, you’ve got a problem.
To protect your own $20 bills, keep them in a dry place away from sunlight. Heat and moisture can fade the colors and weaken the paper fibers, making them easier to tear or damage. If you collect old $20 notes, store them in acid‑free sleeves or a safe deposit box to preserve their value.
Collectors often look for notes with special serial numbers, such as repeating digits (11111111) or low numbers (00000001). These “fancy” serials can fetch higher prices on the market, especially if the bill is in pristine condition. Even a small tear or a folded corner can lower its worth dramatically.
Whether you’re buying groceries, budgeting for a trip, or hunting for a rare bill, knowing these basics will save you time and money. The $20 bill is a everyday piece of history that’s worth a second glance. Keep an eye on the details, and you’ll never be caught off guard.