Have you ever wondered if the US has always had the same coin denominations? Or what was on American coins before all those famous presidents were even born?

As it turns out, there have been many coin denominations in the nation's history. The reverse (tails side) of most US coins has portrayed an eagle. Of course, there are exceptions, such as the 50 state quarters, the buffalo nickel, mercury dime, and the modern nickel and dime.

The obverse (heads side) of US coins have show more variety historically. Most of the first US coins showed various views of "Lady Liberty," an allegorical female figure representing liberty. Most modern coins show presidents and other leaders. The chart below, available only on this website, summaries the obverse design of every circulating United States coin ever issued.