The first $1 legal tender notes were large-size notes issued during the Civil War to finance government spending. These featured ornate borders, a vignette of Secretary Chase, and were not backed by precious metals. They marked a shift from coinage to paper currency. The back was typically blank or had minimal design.

Known for its vivid color scheme, the 1869 $1 “Rainbow Note” featured George Washington on the front. It used colored inks and fibers to deter counterfeiting, giving it its nickname. These notes are highly sought after for their artistic beauty and historical value. The reverse side includes elaborate scrollwork and green tinting.

This series continued the tradition of large-size notes, with George Washington remaining the central figure. The design was less colorful than the 1869 version but still featured red and blue inks. These notes were issued during a time of economic recovery after Reconstruction. Their backs maintained a high degree of ornamentation.

Issued in exchange for silver bullion, the 1890 $1 Treasury Notes had ornate backs in their initial printing, later simplified in 1891. They featured Edwin Stanton on the front and served as a compromise between gold standard supporters and silver advocates. The intricate engravings make them prized collector items. These notes had a short lifespan and low survival rate.

Arguably the most beautiful U.S. banknote, the $1 from the 1896 "Educational Series" depicts "History Instructing Youth" in a neoclassical style. It was designed as part of a trio intended to elevate American currency artistry. This large-size note also features portraits of Martha and George Washington on the back. Highly collectible and rare in good condition.

The 1899 $1 Silver Certificate features a bold image of a black eagle clutching the U.S. flag above portraits of Lincoln and Grant. It is the only U.S. note to feature two presidents together. This note remained in circulation for decades and is beloved by collectors. Its nickname “Black Eagle” reflects its dramatic central vignette.

This was the final $1 Legal Tender note printed in the large-size format before the switch to small notes in 1928. It retained the red seal and ornate design common to its predecessors, with a bust of George Washington and patriotic themes. These were widely circulated in the early 20th century. Despite their age, many survive today in collectible condition.

Known as the "Horse Blanket" due to its large size, this note featured a blue seal and a central portrait of George Washington. It was the last large-size $1 note before the transition to small-size bills. Its relatively high survival rate makes it accessible to collectors. The design was cleaner and more modern than earlier large-size notes.

These were the first small-size $1 notes issued by the U.S., with the blue Treasury seal and serial numbers. The notes promised to pay the bearer one silver dollar upon demand, reflecting the U.S.'s continued link to silver. They included a portrait of Washington and a plain reverse. These are popular entry points for collectors.

This series refined the small-size silver certificates, with Washington's portrait and consistent blue seals. They were printed in enormous quantities and widely circulated through the 1960s. Some variations (like the "blue star notes") are more collectible. These notes are still easily found and make for affordable vintage pieces.

Modern $1 bills began with the 1963 series, marking the switch to Federal Reserve Notes and removing the silver redemption promise. These introduced the motto "In God We Trust" and maintained Washington's portrait. The design has remained largely unchanged for decades. Though common, older series are collectible in high grades or unique serials.