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Ever pulled out a crisp note and wondered what the proper name for that piece of paper actually is? You're not alone-people often ask what is a $20 bill called when they see the familiar greenish‑blue rectangle in their wallet.
In this guide we break down the official designation, the history behind the design, the nicknames that have stuck around, and how the $20 bill fits into the broader U.S. currency system. By the end you'll know every detail from the portrait on the front to the security thread hidden inside.
Official Designation of the $20 Bill
$20 bill is the official name for the United States twenty‑dollar denomination of paper currency. It is issued by the U.S. Treasury and backed by the Federal Reserve System as legal tender.
History of the United States $20 Note
- First issued in 1861 as a United States Note during the Civil War.
- Redesigns occurred in 1862, 1869, 1914, 1928, 1933, 1942, and 1998, each adding new security features and artwork.
- The portrait of Andrew Jackson, the seventh president, has been on the front since 1928.
- The back originally featured scenes from the White House; the current design (2003) shows the White House East Portico.
The bill evolved alongside the nation’s economy, shifting from large, ornate notes to the compact, high‑security format we use today.
Design and Security Features
Modern $20 bills incorporate several anti‑counterfeit technologies:
- Security Thread: A vertical embedded thread that glows orange under UV light.
- Watermark: A faint portrait of Andrew Jackson visible when held to light.
- Color‑Shifting Ink: The numeral “20” in the lower right corner changes from copper to green when tilted.
- Microprinting: Tiny text reading “USA” and “Twenty” appears on the portrait and borders.
- Raised Printing: The feel of the ink on the portrait adds a tactile element.
These features make the bill both durable for daily transactions and difficult to forge.
Common Nicknames and Slang for the Bill
Money lovers love nicknames, and the $20 is no exception. While there isn't a single universally accepted slang, several terms appear frequently:
- Jackson - Directly referencing the president on the front.
- Double Sawbuck - A “sawbuck” historically refers to a $10 bill; two of them make $20.
- Two‑Tens - Simple, often used in cash counting contexts.
Even though “sawbuck” originally described a $10 note (because the Roman numeral X looks like a sawhorse), the “double sawbuck” nickname has persisted in some regional slang.
How the $20 Bill Fits Into the Currency System
The United States dollar is divided into eight primary paper denominations: $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, $100, and the rarely used $500+$ series. The $20 sits squarely in the middle, making it a workhorse for everyday purchases such as groceries, gas, and restaurant meals.
Because it balances value and portability, the $20 is often the top bill in many cash‑only wallets. It also serves as a convenient reference point for budgeting: many people allocate two $20 bills per week for discretionary spending.
Comparing the Bill to Other Common Denominations
| Attribute | $10 Bill | $20 Bill | $50 Bill |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portrait | Alexander Hamilton | Andrew Jackson | Ulysses S. Grant |
| Primary Color | Orange‑Red | Green‑Blue | Purple‑Gray |
| Common Nickname | Tenner, Hamilton | Jackson, Double Sawbuck | Grant, Half‑C‑Note |
| Security Thread Color (UV) | Yellow | Orange | Green |
| Average Daily Circulation (2024) | ~10 billion | ~12 billion | ~6 billion |
Understanding these differences helps cash‑handling professionals and everyday shoppers alike. For example, the distinct color‑shifting ink makes it easy to verify a $20 bill in low‑light situations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the $20 bill feature Andrew Jackson?
When the Treasury redesigns the series in the 1920s, it chose historic presidents to give each denomination a recognizable face. Jackson, a prominent 19th‑century figure, was selected for the $20 note and has remained ever since.
Is a $20 bill still legal tender?
Yes. All $20 notes printed after 1963 are legal tender for all debts, public charges, taxes, and fees in the United States.
What does “double sawbuck” mean?
A “sawbuck” is slang for a $10 bill because the Roman numeral X resembles a sawhorse. Two of those equals $20, hence “double sawbuck.”
Can I use a $20 bill for large purchases like a car down‑payment?
Absolutely. As legal tender, a $20 note can be used for any amount, but merchants may prefer larger denominations or electronic payments for very big sums.
How can I spot a counterfeit $20 bill?
Check the security thread, color‑shifting ink, watermark, and microprinting. Authentic notes feel slightly raised on the portrait area and the ink should not smear.
Wrapping Up
So, the short answer: the bill is officially called the United States twenty‑dollar bill, most people just say “twenty” or “Jackson,” and in some circles you’ll hear “double sawbuck.” Knowing its history, design quirks, and how it stacks up against other notes gives you confidence whether you’re counting cash at a register or just curious about the paper in your pocket.
Next time you pull out a $20, you’ll recognize the security thread, the portrait of Andrew Jackson, and maybe even whisper a little nickname as you hand it over.