Declaration of Independence: $2 Bill, Etching Rack Card

The iconic image of the Declaration of Independence, etched with meticulous detail, has graced the back of the $2 bill since 1976, commemorating the nation's bicentennial. This engraving, a testament to American history and artistic craftsmanship, is a faithful reproduction of John Trumbull's 1819 painting depicting the signing of the Declaration. - However, the story behind this image extends beyond its presence on currency. The original painting, commissioned by the United States Congress, was intended to adorn the walls of the Capitol building. Trumbull, a former Revolutionary War officer and close friend of George Washington, meticulously researched the event, interviewing surviving signers and consulting historical documents to ensure accuracy. - The painting, completed in 1819, was a masterpiece of historical realism. It captured the solemn moment when 56 brave men put their names to a document that would forever change the course of history. The painting's vivid colours and lifelike figures brought the scene to life, inspiring awe and reverence in all who beheld it. - Years later, when the United States Treasury sought to commemorate the nation's bicentennial, they turned to this iconic painting as the perfect symbol for the $2 bill. The engraving process was a painstaking task, requiring the utmost precision and skill. Every detail, from the intricate folds of the delegates' clothing to the delicate quill pens, was faithfully reproduced. - The result was a stunning image that captured the essence of the Declaration of Independence. It was a powerful reminder of the courage and determination of the nation's founders, and a testament to the enduring spirit of American democracy. - The Declaration of Independence also held a place in the early days of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps. In the early 1970s, the $1 food stamp featured a cropped image of the painting, showcasing the signing of the Declaration. This design, along with the iconic Liberty Bell, was a symbol of American heritage and the government's commitment to providing nutritional assistance to those in need. - This image is a work of the United States Department of the Treasury, taken or made as part of an employee's official duties. As a work of the U.S. federal government, the image is in the public domain in the United States.