What do these coins have in common? Featuring Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, FDR, and many others, U.S. coins typically feature dead people. (more) Can a Living Person Appear on U.S. Currency? Written by Tracy Grant Tracy Grant is a senior editor at Encyclopaedia Britannica. She previously served as editor in chief, the first woman to hold that title. Tracy Grant Fact-checked by Britannica Editors Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... Britannica Editors Last updated Mar. 24, 2026 •History What do these coins have in common?Featuring Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, FDR, and many others, U.S. coins typically feature dead people.AdstockRF The answer is “No”—except when they do. Like so many things that appear straightforward, this issue is complicated. The answer seems to hinge on whether you’re talking about the “letter of the law” or the “spirit of the law.” The spirit of the law is clear, and there are in fact multiple laws that...

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