The Low Down on the American Currency
| Currency: |
US Dollar |
| Central Bank: |
Federal Reserve Bank |
| Currency symbol: |
$ (dollar) |
| Currency sub unit: |
¢ (cent) |
| Nicknames: |
greenback, buck, dough, green |
| Bank notes: |
$1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, $100 |
| Coins: |
1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 25¢, 50¢, $1 |
The US dollar is one of the most dominant reserve currencies in the world and is also the main tender for several other countries or regions outside the United States, including the Caribbean, Ecuador and El Salvador.
Don’t be surprised to hear dollars being referred to as ‘bucks’ when you are out and about, this is a commonly used nickname! You may also hear 5 cent coins referred to as a ‘nickel’, a 10 cent coin as a ‘dime’ and a 25 cent coin as a ‘quarter’.
Tipping is standard practice across America and you will be expected to pay up to 15% on top of your meal – or even 20% for upmarket restaurants. Thankfully, portion sizes tend to be very generous indeed, so you’re unlikely to feel short-changed!
What to spend your dollars on
-
Smart gambling in Vegas
1 USD
-
Grand Central Station to
the Empire State Building5.50 USD
-
Catch an LA Lakers game (from)
35 USD
-
IMAX at the L.A. Chinese Theatre
19 USD
-
Sip fresh coffee at Central Park
4 USD
A budget
RecalculateMust-sees in the United States
- New York
- This bustling metropolis is full of great landmarks. The Empire State Building, Broadway theatre district and Madison Square Garden are just three of them, begging to be explored!
- New Orleans
- A vibrant clash of American, Caribbean and French influences, New Orleans is especially known for its live blues and jazz music.
- Miami
- Miami features a unique blend of Hispanic and American culture that you won’t find anywhere else. Take it all in while you walk the famous South Beach.
Buying US dollars online is easy
Order American dollars online, lock in the rate and collect at your local store, at the airport before you fly or have it delivered at home
Prefer to Buy in Store?
If buying online is not your thing, visit your nearest Travelex store around and one of our friendly sales consultants will help you organise your dollars for your trip to The United States of America.
Find a StoreTravelling to the USA in the Future?
Track Rates and get notified when the US dollar matches your ideal rate so you can decide if it’s a good time to buy!
Track RatesUSA Travel Guide
Before you head off, check out our US Travel Guide which includes some not-to-miss highlights when you visit the United States of America!
ExploreRead your reviews on trustpilot
Competative Rate and Easy Transaction
Easy transaction and reliable delivery. Competative rate too!
Narelle Lillian TownsendCash ordered online was available on…
Cash ordered online was available on date and time requested. Very professional and friendly service at the Casuarina Travelex office. Well done
Andrea ArmstrongEasy website to order money
Easy website to order money. No problems with delivery. Competitive rates.
Leif Leeexcellent- reliable and efficient
excellent- reliable and efficient
hmmLovely lady at Doncaster Westfield…
Lovely lady at Doncaster Westfield branch. Always opens on time, happy and represent the company well.
Kim Elizabeth PetersonFast, easy & painless
Fast, easy and painless experience. Easy online ordering system and friendly staff at Highpoint store.
TolExcellent customer service and…
Excellent customer service and competitive rates.
MARTINNo problems
No problems with good communication
BobbaPurchasing travel card
Found the web site difficult to use to book the card for delivery, ended up having to collect it from the store - the lady in the store was very helpful though and answered all my questions with ease.
Jeff H.The whole process worked very well
The whole process worked very well. Thanks
Christopher GrovesPainless transaction
Very straight forward transaction after having decided the exchange rate is what you are willing to pay.
Eugene LeeLove being able to check rates and buy…
Love being able to check rates and buy when I’m ready and then easy free collection at travelex kiosk. Only way for me to buy foreign currency now days.
Julie BrocksGood advice and very patient concerning…
Good advice and very patient concerning numerous questions
ANTON DriessenEasy online ordering and collection on…
Easy online ordering and collection on time as promised - hassle free service
LindsayEasy to use the on line order form
Easy to use the on line order form. Able to pick up in nearby store.
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