The people depicted on common U.S. coins are primarily former presidents and notable historical figures:
- Penny: Abraham Lincoln
- Nickel: Thomas Jefferson
- Dime: Franklin D. Roosevelt
- Quarter: George Washington
- Half Dollar: John F. Kennedy
- Dollar Coin: Sacagawea (a notable Native American figure, not a president)
These images have been used since the early 20th century, with Lincoln first appearing on the penny in 1909. By 1971, all six main coin denominations featured the likeness of a former president except the dollar coin, which features Sacagawea
. In addition to coins, several presidents and other historical figures appear on U.S. paper currency, but for coins, the above list covers the most common ones in circulation today
