Unveiling the Enigmatic Figure Who Graced the Five Dollar Bill Before Lincoln’s Portrait

Who was on the 5 dollar bill before Lincoln? This is a question that piques the curiosity of many history enthusiasts. The answer to this question takes us back to the early 19th century when the United States was still in its formative years.

The first five-dollar bill was issued by the United States government in 1862 during the Civil War. Before Abraham Lincoln, who became the 16th President of the United States, the face of the five-dollar bill was Salmon P. Chase. Salmon P. Chase was a prominent figure in American politics and served as the Secretary of the Treasury under President Lincoln.

Salmon P. Chase was born on January 2, 1808, in Cornish, New Hampshire. He was a lawyer, politician, and abolitionist who played a significant role in the fight against slavery. Chase was a member of the Whig Party and later became a member of the newly formed Republican Party, which was formed to oppose the expansion of slavery.

As the Secretary of the Treasury, Chase was responsible for overseeing the finances of the United States. During his tenure, he implemented several important measures to help the Union during the Civil War. One of his most notable achievements was the establishment of the National Banking System, which helped stabilize the nation’s finances.

When the five-dollar bill was first introduced, it featured Salmon P. Chase’s portrait on the front. The back of the bill displayed the Great Seal of the United States. The design of the bill was inspired by the British five-pound note, which was in use at the time.

After Abraham Lincoln’s assassination in 1865, the five-dollar bill was redesigned to feature the portrait of the late president. Since then, the five-dollar bill has undergone several redesigns, but Salmon P. Chase’s image remained on the bill until 1928, when he was replaced by the portrait of Thomas Jefferson.

In conclusion, Salmon P. Chase was the first person to appear on the five-dollar bill before Abraham Lincoln. His tenure as the Secretary of the Treasury and his role in the fight against slavery make him a significant figure in American history. The legacy of Salmon P. Chase continues to be celebrated today, and his image remains a part of the nation’s currency.