Why is a Hundred Dollar Bill Called a C-Note?

The Etymology of 'C-Note'

A hundred dollar bill is colloquially known as a 'C-note.' This term has been in use for decades and is steeped in historical and linguistic significance. To fully understand the origin of 'C-note,' we must explore the world of Roman numerals and how they have influenced everyday language in the United States.

From Roman Numerals to Criminal Jargon

The term 'C-Note' originated from Roman numerals. In the Roman numeral system, the letter 'C' represents 100. This knowledge became widely recognized due to its use in classical education, which was prevalent in both America and Europe. In the 19th century, it was common practice to refer to smaller bills using Roman numerals. For example, a five-dollar bill would be called a 'V-note,' and a ten-dollar bill would be a 'X-note.' By this same logic, a hundred-dollar bill came to be known as a 'C-note.'

How Roman Numerals Impacted Currency

Although the slang terms for smaller bills like 'V' and 'X' have faded from popular usage, the term 'C-note' has endured, even if it is not commonly used in today's everyday language. This term persists, perhaps due to its association with wealth and prosperity, which are often depicted in popular culture, particularly in rap and music videos.

A Look at Other Roman Numerals

For context, here are the Roman numerals for other values:

These numerals are useful in understanding the structure of larger numbers and the historical context of the term 'C-note.'

The Connection Between C and Federal Reserve Notes

Beyond just the Roman numeral 'C,' a hundred-dollar bill is also known as a 'note' due to the paper format on which it is printed. A 'note' in this context is a depreciating security issued by the Federal Reserve, which is the central banking system of the United States. This is why a hundred-dollar bill is not just a 'C-note,' but also a Federal Reserve Note.

The Benjamin and the C-Note

A hundred-dollar bill features the portrait of Benjamin Franklin, one of America's founding fathers. Due to this, a hundred-dollar bill is often referred to as a 'Benjamin.' Therefore, a 'C-note' and a 'Benjamin' are two terms that can be used interchangeably to describe a hundred-dollar bill. This association with Benjamin Franklin also gives the 'C-note' a historical and cultural significance that adds to its allure.

Understanding the etymology and cultural significance of 'C-note' provides insight into the intricate ways in which language and culture intersect in the modern era. Whether you're discussing finance, rap lyrics, or historical figures, the term 'C-note' remains a fascinating part of American linguistic heritage.