I got this dollar bill in my change the other day. It is all marked up, with www.wheresgeorge.com, and please help track this bill stamped all over it. I could not help but go to the website. The first time I have seen a bill with that on it was a few years ago. It is The Untied States Currency Tracking Project; you can see where your paper money goes after you spend it. Alternatively, if you get one like me you can see where’s it has been. There is even a “Where’s Willy” to track Canadian Currency. You do not have to register to use the site but if you want to keep track of a bill, it will be easier if you register. Either way it is free to use.
On the front page, there is a place to put the serial number and series number. This dollar has traveled pretty far. Starting in NH. I am surprised at how many times it has been checked in to the website. I would think for all that traveling it might have stopped somewhere between here and there.
I think that people are not going online and checking them in as they get them. Not a lot of people even know what it is; it has been some years since there has been anything on TV about this. The project started Dec 23 1998. The idea was conceived and developed by Hank Eskin. The site survives (mostly) off the money made from banner ads and the Where’s George? merchandise. www.wheresgeorgestore.com, the store does not have very much. They should sell stuff on cafepress. They also have “Friend’s of Where’s George” that cost money to join. The fees are put toward running the site (at least that is what they say). Benefits of the “friend’s” program would allow you access the cool new and enhanced features. In addition, the banner as will not be there when you sign in.
I do not think you become a friend for the benefits; it is more of a contribution thing.
Now, I have always thought defacement of money was a crime, so how do they get away with this? They do answer this in their FAQ. They explain that the law defines “illegal” defacement as defacement that renders the bill unfit to re-use. You can find out more details’ about the law by going to the US Bureau of Engraving and Printing. I wonder if making georgy boy a devil by drawing a mustache and horns makes it unusable?
Wheresgeorge.com does not offer stamps to mark the bills. You can have one made, at your expense. or just use good old fashion handwriting.
