Unique Honor
The Singular Honor: Martha Washington on U.S. Currency
Martha Washington is the only First Lady ever featured on U.S. currency.
Throughout the rich tapestry of American history, numerous figures have been immortalized on the nation's currency. Presidents, founding fathers, and other notable men have frequently graced the faces of coins and bills. However, when it comes to First Ladies, only one has ever been given this distinct honor: Martha Washington. Her unique place in the annals of U.S. currency history is a testament to her enduring legacy and the respect she commands as the nation's first First Lady.
Martha Washington: A Trailblazer on the $1 Silver Certificate
Martha Washington's portrait first appeared on the $1 Silver Certificate in 1886. This marked a significant milestone as she became the first and only woman to be featured as the primary portrait on U.S. paper currency. The $1 Silver Certificate was a form of paper money that could be redeemed for its equivalent value in silver, a practice that continued until the certificates were discontinued in 1957.
The design of the $1 Silver Certificate featuring Martha Washington was based on a portrait by Charles François Jalabert. The certificate itself was part of a broader initiative authorized by Congress to create new silver-backed currency. The Galveston Daily News reported on August 17, 1886, that the new certificates would not be ready for issue until November of that year, with Martha Washington's vignette prominently featured.
The Historical Context and Significance
Martha Washington's inclusion on the $1 Silver Certificate was more than just an artistic choice; it was a recognition of her pivotal role in American history. As the wife of George Washington, the nation's first president, Martha Washington was a key figure in the early days of the United States. Her presence on the currency symbolized the nation's respect for her contributions and her status as a foundational figure in American society.
The issuance of the Martha Washington Silver Certificate was met with widespread approval. Newspapers of the time, such as the Indiana Democrat, praised the bill, noting that those fortunate enough to possess one had an excellent picture of Martha Washington, the wife of the "Father of His Country."
Comparisons with Other Women on U.S. Currency
While Martha Washington holds the unique distinction of being the only First Lady featured as the primary portrait on U.S. paper currency, she is not the only woman to have appeared on American money. Pocahontas, for instance, was depicted on the back of the $20 bill from 1865 to 1869 and again in 1875. However, her portrayal was part of a larger group scene, not a solo portrait.
In the realm of coins, several women have been honored. Susan B. Anthony was featured on the dollar coin from 1979 to 1981 and again in 1999. Sacagawea, known for her role as an interpreter and guide during the Lewis and Clark Expedition, has been featured on the dollar coin since 2000. More recently, the American Women Quarters Program, launched in 2022, has begun to celebrate the contributions of various women throughout U.S. history by featuring them on quarters.
The Legacy of Martha Washington's Currency
The $1 Silver Certificate featuring Martha Washington remains a highly sought-after item among collectors. It is often referred to simply as the "Martha," and its historical significance and rarity make it a prized possession. The certificate is also featured in the "100 Greatest American Currency Notes," highlighting its importance in the history of U.S. paper money.
Martha Washington's presence on U.S. currency is a reminder of the vital roles women have played in the nation's history, even if their recognition on currency has been limited. Her portrait on the $1 Silver Certificate stands as a symbol of her enduring legacy and the respect she continues to command.
Martha Washington's unique distinction as the only First Lady to be featured on U.S. currency underscores her significant role in American history. Her portrait on the $1 Silver Certificate not only honored her contributions but also set a precedent for the inclusion of women on U.S. money. While other women have since been featured on coins and in group scenes on paper currency, Martha Washington's solo appearance remains a singular honor. As the nation continues to evolve and recognize the contributions of women, her legacy on U.S. currency serves as a powerful reminder of the foundational role women have played in shaping the United States.