Early $100 notes included Legal Tender and Gold Certificates with artistic vignettes and bold type. Some of the most beautiful designs in American currency history fall in this group. These were primarily used by banks and institutions. Their large size and stunning engravings make them centerpiece collectibles.

These notes featured large portraits and gold-colored elements, symbolizing their gold backing. Designed for high-value transactions, they were rarely seen by the public. The Gold Certificate of 1907 with Benjamin Franklin is particularly notable. Surviving examples are extremely rare and valuable.

Small-size gold certificates in this denomination had bright yellow seals and promised to pay “in gold coin.” After the gold recall, they were banned from public ownership for decades. Today, legal examples in collector hands fetch premium prices. The 1928 $100 gold certificate is a highlight in many advanced collections.

The modern $100 features Benjamin Franklin and Independence Hall. In 1996, it was redesigned with anti-counterfeit features like a watermark and color-shifting ink. In 2013, it was further upgraded with a blue 3D security ribbon and gold “100” on the back. This is the highest denomination currently in circulation and is widely used globally.