Ever wonder where money comes from? The U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing is the place. It designs and produces U.S. currency. This bureau is a part of the Treasury Department. It also creates security documents for the government.
The U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing has a rich history. It started in 1862 during the Civil War. Congress needed a way to fund the war effort. So, they authorized the Treasury Secretary to print paper money. Before that, private companies printed money. The government had no facility to do so.
Initially, the currency operations were not well-organized. Over time, they became more structured. In 1874, Congress officially recognized the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. It allocated funds for its operations.
From the beginning, the Bureau printed more than just currency. In 1864, it made passports for the State Department. It also produced money orders for the Post Office Department. Later, it began printing postage stamps in 1894. For almost a century, it was the sole producer of postage stamps in the country.
The U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing improved its production over the years. In 1918, plate capacity increased. Presses could print eight notes per sheet instead of four. This was important for meeting increased demand during World War I.
In 1929, currency design changed. Note size was reduced. This allowed the Bureau to print twelve notes per plate. The redesign saved paper costs and improved counterfeit protection.
In 1952, new inks helped increase production again. These inks dried faster. The Bureau could print 18 notes per sheet. By 1957, they used a dry intaglio method. This allowed them to print 32 notes per sheet.
Today, the Bureau uses advanced processes. Engravings are transferred to steel plates. Ink is applied and then wiped clean. The plate presses against special paper. This creates a distinct impression. Faces and backs are printed separately. Then, Treasury Seals and serial numbers are added.
The U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing has two locations. One is in Washington, D.C. The other is in Fort Worth, Texas. The Washington facility has two buildings. The main building was built in 1914. Its architecture is neoclassical. It faces the Tidal Basin and the Jefferson Memorial. An annex building was added in 1938.
The Bureau moved into its own building in 1880. It was located at 14th Street and Independence Avenue SW. The Bureau relocated to its present Washington location in 1914.
In 1987, a second facility was built in Fort Worth, Texas. This facility meets increased production needs. It also serves as a backup in case of emergencies. Currency printed in Fort Worth has a small “FW” on it.
The U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing even has its own police force. The Bureau of Engraving and Printing Police Force protects personnel and facilities. They enforce federal and local laws.
So, the next time you hold a dollar bill, remember its journey. It was designed and printed at the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing. It is a symbol of American history and security.