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What is 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!




Easy Currency Bundle Options for your Trip

US dollar



United States of America
American dollar


USACanada
US dollarCanadian dollar


Make your Own Mix
Select currencies of your choice* in CASH and/or CARD




picture of the Travelex Money Card

USD Goes Further with the Travelex Money Card

  • Our Travelex Money Card gives you better rates than Cash
  • $0 Eftpos Fees
  • $0 ATM Fees1
  • $0 Online Shopping Fees2

1. Travelex does not charge ATM fees, some operators may charge their own fee or set their own limits. 2. Transacting via some online merchants may incur a surcharge.

What to spend your dollars on

  • Smart gambling in Vegas

    1 USD

  • A cab from Grand Central Station to
    the Empire State Building

    5.50 USD

  • Catch an LA Lakers game (from)

    35 USD

  • Watch an IMAX at the L.A. Chinese Theatre

    19 USD

  • Sip fresh coffee at Central Park

    4 USD

How many dollars will I need?**

Please select your budget above.


- +

- +

Total spending money needed:

  • A budget
  • for people for
  • nights


Recalculate

Must-sees in the United States

New York
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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.

Other Ways to Get Foreign Currency


Travel Money Card

USD Travelex Money Card, buy online and in-store

More Info

ATMS

Get AUD from an ATM in New Zealand and when you arrive in OZ

More Info

Find a Store

Purchase cash or the Travelex Money Card in-store

More Info

Track Currencies

Receive an alert when your selected currency has reached your desired rate

More Info

*Rates are subject to change throughout the day. In-store rates vary compared to online.

**The figures provided are indicative only and are there to provide an idea of the amount of travel money you may need during your trip.