1935 Dollar Bill Without In God We Trust
The 1935 dollar bill is a piece of American currency that was printed during the Great Depression era. It is a fascinating piece of history that has become highly sought after by collectors and history buffs alike. One of the most notable features of the 1935 dollar bill is that it does not contain the phrase "In God We Trust." In this article, we will explore the reasons why the 1935 dollar bill was printed without this phrase and what it means for collectors today.
The History of "In God We Trust"
The phrase "In God We Trust" has a long history in American culture. It first appeared on American currency during the Civil War, when Secretary of the Treasury Salmon P. Chase ordered its inclusion on certain coins. The phrase was added to all U.S. currency in 1957, as a response to the Cold War and the perceived threat of communism. The addition of the phrase was seen as a way to affirm the nation's religious heritage and to distinguish the United States from atheistic communist countries.
The 1935 Dollar Bill
The 1935 dollar bill was printed during the Great Depression, a time of economic hardship and uncertainty for many Americans. The bill featured the portrait of President George Washington on the front, along with the words "Silver Certificate" and "One Dollar." The back of the bill featured an image of the Great Seal of the United States, along with the words "The United States of America" and "One Dollar."
The Absence of "In God We Trust"
One of the most striking features of the 1935 dollar bill is the absence of the phrase "In God We Trust." This phrase had been included on all U.S. currency since 1957, but it was not yet required by law when the 1935 dollar bill was printed. The omission of the phrase was not an intentional act of defiance or rebellion; rather, it was simply a result of the bill being printed before the requirement was put into effect.
The Rarity of the 1935 Dollar Bill Without "In God We Trust"
Despite being printed without the phrase "In God We Trust," the 1935 dollar bill is not necessarily rare. Millions of these bills were printed, and many of them are still in circulation today. However, the bills that do not contain the phrase are considered to be more valuable among collectors. The scarcity of these bills has made them highly sought after, and they can fetch a premium price at auctions and online marketplaces.
Collecting the 1935 Dollar Bill Without "In God We Trust"
If you are interested in collecting the 1935 dollar bill without the phrase "In God We Trust," there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, make sure that the bill you are purchasing is authentic. There have been many counterfeit bills produced over the years, and it is important to do your research and only buy from reputable dealers. Additionally, the condition of the bill will affect its value. Bills that are in pristine condition will command a higher price than those that are heavily worn or damaged.
The Importance of Historical Context
When collecting historical artifacts like the 1935 dollar bill, it is important to consider the context in which they were produced. The absence of the phrase "In God We Trust" on these bills is a reflection of the political and cultural climate of the time. By understanding this context, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the significance of these artifacts and their place in American history.
The Legacy of the 1935 Dollar Bill Without "In God We Trust"
The 1935 dollar bill without the phrase "In God We Trust" is a powerful symbol of American history and culture. It represents a time of great economic hardship, political upheaval, and cultural change. Today, these bills are highly sought after by collectors who recognize their historical significance and value. By preserving and collecting these artifacts, we can ensure that the legacy of this important period in American history is not forgotten.
Conclusion
The 1935 dollar bill without the phrase "In God We Trust" is a fascinating artifact of American history. As we have seen, the absence of this phrase was not an intentional act of defiance, but rather a result of the bill being printed before the requirement was put into effect. Today, these bills are highly sought after by collectors who recognize their historical significance and value. By collecting and preserving these artifacts, we can ensure that the legacy of this important period in American history is not forgotten.