Advertising Dollars

When the new $20 bill design was revealed to the public last May, the United States government embarked on a worldwide program to inform and educate the public about the forthcoming currency. Training materials have been made available to merchants and businesses. In fact, much of this material is available online. The Department of the Treasury: Bureau of Engraving and Printing currently hosts an informative Web site called The New Color of Money. Designed to be the source for information about the United States government's latest currency redesigns, this Web site is brimming with content -- including an interactive demonstration of the new $20 bill’s security features.

Image courtesy U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing This educational poster can be downloaded from The New Color of Money Web site, to be used in schools, libraries and other public facilities.

While these traditional methods undoubtedly proved helpful to some, they couldn't successfully reach the vast majority of the population. Taking a cue from the entertainment industry, the United States government has been using the William Morris Agency (probably the largest talent agency in the world) and Davie-Brown Entertainment (a product placement firm) to help spread the news. Joining notable clients -- Reebok, Cisco Systems and the NFL to name a few -- the new $20 bill has gotten some serious face-time on camera. Even a brief appearance in a popular television show can garner exposure to millions of viewers. With a guest appearance on "Wheel of Fortune" under its belt, the new $20 bill next hit the small screen on "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire," "Jeopardy" and "America's Funniest Home Videos." In addition to headlining hit shows, there have been packaging tie-ins with consumer products and an advertising push with some well-known companies.

For more information on the new $20 bill and related topics, check out the links on the next page.