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
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