Why does the United States periodically redesign its currency?
We redesign U.S. currency to stay ahead of counterfeiting threats and keep counterfeiting levels low.
The Federal Reserve, together with our partners at the Treasury Department, its Bureau of Engraving and Printing, and the United States Secret Service, continuously monitor the counterfeiting threats for each denomination of U.S. currency and make redesign decisions based on these threats. An inter-agency committee makes recommendations on design changes to the Secretary of the Treasury, who has final authority for U.S. currency designs.
Related Information
Podcast: The Art of Banknote Design
Related Questions
How do I determine if a banknote is genuine? What should I do if I think I have a counterfeit note?
Do I have to trade in my old-design notes when a new one begins circulating?