The basic unit of U.S. currency is the dollar, which is subdivided into 100 cents.
Coins are the copper penny (1 cent) and four silver coins: the nickel (5 cents), the dime (10 cents), the quarter (25 cents), and the half-dollar (50 cents). Silver $1 coins are rarely seen in circulation; a "golden" dollar coin was introduced in 2000.
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1 Cent or Penny |
5 Cents or Nickel |
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10 Cents or Dime |
25 Cents or Quarter |
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50 Cents |
1 Dollar |
Paper money comes in denominations of $1, $2 (limited circulation), $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100. All these bills are the same size and green in color; they are distinguishable only by the dollar amount indicated on them and by pictures of various famous American people and monuments.
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Five Dollar Bill Abraham Lincoln |
Five Dollar Bill The Lincoln Memorial |
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Ten Dollar Bill Alexander Hamilton |
Ten Dollar Bill U.S. Treasury |
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Twenty Dollar Bill Andrew Jackson |
Twenty Dollar Bill The White House |
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Twenty Dollar Bill (New Design) Andrew Jackson |
Twenty Dollar Bill The White House |
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Fifty Dollar Bill Ulysses S. Grant |
Fifty Dollar Bill U.S. Capitol |
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Fifty Dollar Bill (New Design) Ulysses S. Grant |
Fifty Dollar Bill U.S. Capitol |
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One Hundred Dollar Bill Benjamin Franklin |
One Hundred Dollar Bill Independence Hall |
ATMs
Cash machines are abundant throughout New York City and can be found not only in banks, but also in grocery stores, delis, movie theaters and hotels. They are convenient, available 24 hours and the exchange rate is good.
In general, U.S. banks will not cash a personal check for you unless you have an account at that bank (it doesn't have to be at that branch). Only some bank branches are equipped to exchange foreign currencies. Therefore, it's best to rely on credit cards, cash machines, and traveler's checks to handle expenses while you're traveling.
It is not as easy to find places to exchange currency in New York as it is in European cities. For the most favorable rates, change money through banks. Cirrus and Plus exchange rates are excellent. You won't do as well at exchange booths in airports or rail and bus stations, in hotels, in restaurants, or in stores, although you may find their hours more convenient. To avoid lines at airport exchange booths, get a bit of local currency before you leave home. Currency may be exchanged at some bank branches, as well as at currency-exchange booths in airports and at foreign-currency offices such as American Express Travel Service and Thomas Cook (check local directories for addresses and phone numbers). A good strategy is to buy traveler's checks in U.S. dollars before you come to the United States; although the rates may not be as good abroad, the time saved by not having to search constantly for exchange facilities far outweighs any financial loss.
Any U.S. bank is equipped to accept transfers of funds from foreign banks. It helps if you can plan dates to pick up money at specific bank branches. Your home bank can supply you with a list of its correspondent banks in the United States. Consult with your bank to make sure you will be able to use this service.
Postal money orders (for as much as $700, obtained for a fee of up to 85¢) can be bought at any U.S. post office and redeemable at any other post office locations throughout the country. From overseas, you can have someone go to a bank to send you an international money order (also called a bank draft), which will cost a $15-$20 commission plus airmail postage. Always bring two valid pieces of identification, preferably with photos, to claim your money.