The Federal Reserve is set to implement a comprehensive redesign of US currency that will span through 2034. The redesign is aimed at fighting counterfeiting threats that have become increasingly advanced. The Bureau of Engraving and Printing will implement new security features that require extensive testing. The project involves collaboration between multiple federal agencies to ensure successful implementation.
The redesign combines over a decade of research with years of testing and optimization. All denominations will be updated to meet a specific timeline based on security requirements. The changes are required to meet strict manufacturing and quality standards. The new designs will require testing with millions of banknote processing machines worldwide.
Project Overview and Leadership
According to the Bureau of Engraving & Printing (BEP), the Federal Reserve is implementing a comprehensive currency redesign through the Advanced Counterfeit Deterrence (ACD) Committee, with rollout planned from 2026 to 2034. The initiative focuses on enhancing security features while ensuring global commerce functionality. The project, developed since 2011, addresses various security and technological challenges.
Security Priorities and Development
Modern technology has enabled increasingly sophisticated counterfeits, making enhanced security measures essential for protecting US currency integrity. Developing the new security features required over ten years of research and development, followed by optimization and integration testing conducted for several years. The committee carefully evaluates and implements features that can withstand various counterfeiting attempts.
Manufacturing and Materials
New equipment and raw materials were necessary for the redesign to support advanced security features, all of which undergo rigorous procurement and acceptance testing. The BEP maintains strict manufacturing standards so that quality is consistent across all produced notes. Manufacturing processes must meet federal requirements while maintaining high-volume production capabilities.
Testing Protocol and Development
The Banknote Development Process includes comprehensive testing phases that can span several years, with each phase providing valuable insights for subsequent improvements. Testing procedures involve extensive evaluation of results, data analysis, and modifications to design, materials, equipment, and features. All modifications undergo thorough evaluation before implementation in the final design.
Global Machine Compatibility
With over 10 million banknote equipment machines internationally processing US currency, ensuring compatibility is crucial to the redesign process. The BEP provides sample notes to Banknote Equipment Manufacturers and the Federal Reserve System’s Currency Technology Office for testing. This testing phase ensures new designs function properly in existing machines and maintain smooth operation in commerce.
Security Feature Integration
The BEP implements three levels of security features: covert features, banknote equipment features, and public features. Each security element undergoes extensive testing while maintaining functionality in daily commerce. These integrated features serve as critical defenses against counterfeiting attempts.
Release Strategy
Note designs are revealed six to eight months before their release date to maintain security while allowing time for proper preparation. Earlier release of designs or concepts is avoided to prevent aiding counterfeiters in their efforts. This strategic approach helps maintain confidence in the U.S. currency while preventing confusion or disruptions in the marketplace.
Implementation Timeline
The redesign sequence begins with the $10 note scheduled for release in 2026, following years of careful planning and development. The $50 note will follow in 2028, with the $20 note featuring Harriet Tubman planned for 2030. The $5 note will debut in 2032 as the fourth denomination in the sequence. The $100 note will complete the redesign process in 2034, concluding this comprehensive currency update initiative.
Production Requirements
Manufacturing capabilities must align precisely with design requirements while maintaining consistent quality standards throughout production. Each new feature undergoes thorough evaluation for durability and effectiveness in real-world conditions. Production processes receive constant monitoring and adjustment to ensure uniformity across all printed notes. The manufacturing system adheres to strict federal guidelines while maintaining efficiency at scale.
Commerce Integration
New designs must function effectively in daily commercial transactions while meeting all security and durability requirements. Extensive samples will be provided by the Bureau to equipment manufacturers so that proper function in commerce can be ensured. Testing confirms acceptance in various transaction scenarios and environments. Each denomination undergoes thorough validation before public release.
Public Education Planning
The six-to-eight-month preview period allows for comprehensive public education and cash handler training programs. This timing helps maintain confidence in the US currency while preventing marketplace confusion. Training materials help stakeholders identify and understand new security features. The education timeline balances security concerns with public awareness needs.
Quality Assurance
The redesign process incorporates multiple stages of quality control and testing for consistent production standards. Each security feature must meet strict performance criteria while maintaining durability in circulation. Manufacturing processes undergo continuous monitoring to maintain quality across all production runs. Comprehensive testing ensures all components work together effectively.
Accessibility Features
The new currency designs will include tactile features for blind individuals and higher contrast numerals for those with low vision, following a 2008 Federal Court Order. These features have been tested and certified by the American Council of the Blind for the 2026 $10 bill redesign. The improvements address long-standing accessibility concerns while maintaining security standards.
Stakeholder Engagement
The U.S. Treasury and BEP have committed to quarterly meetings with the American Council of the Blind to discuss progress on accessibility features. These regular consultations will provide updates on milestones and major accomplishments leading up to the launch of the accessible $10 bill in 2026. The redesigned $20 bill, scheduled for 2030, that will feature a portrait of Harriet Tubman will represent a historic change in U.S. currency design.
Continuous Monitoring and Decision Making
The U.S. maintains an active currency redesign program as a strategic approach to combat counterfeiting threats across all denominations. An inter-agency committee monitors risks and advises the Secretary of the Treasury, who holds final authority over design decisions. The Federal Reserve collaborates with the BEP, the Treasury Department, and the Secret Service to ensure currency integrity through strategic redesign initiatives.
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