The Dollar: A Window Into the Nation with Jerry Bowyer

Show Notes

Have you ever taken a close look at the one-dollar bill? More specifically, at the back of the dollar bill. It holds clues about the founding of the United States that still have meaning today. On this MoneyWise, we discuss the dollar bill’s imagery and symbolism with economist Jerry Bowyer. He’s done the homework and you’ll be fascinated by what he’s found.

• The dollar’s design isn’t conspiracy, it’s history. We’ll start with heraldry. The designers were influenced by the Medieval period. Certain colors and artistic motifs symbolized specific things. They wanted to symbolize the philosophy of the United States.
• What’s the meaning behind the pyramid? It’s four-sided, not a three-sided one. Four-sized ones represent increased stability; they’re harder to knock down. Also, the incomplete nature of the pyramid (it has no top) symbolizes how the nation is still being built.
• What’s the meaning of the phrase “Novus Ordo Seclorum?” It’s "A new order of the ages." It’s to signify "the beginning of the new American Era" as of the date of the Declaration of Independence.
• What about our eagle? It’s representative of foreign policy. Also, the eagle’s face is turned towards the olive branches, showing that the default position of the US is peace.
• The dollar itself should be a reminder to us of the importance of sound currency, private property, rule of law, and the inherent dignity of all human beings.

On this program we also answer your questions:

• What’s the best way to invest my money after I sell my house? I’m going to rent instead of purchasing another house.
• At what point do you have enough in savings that it’s hording and that it should be doing some work for you?

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