The American currency system is based on the US dollar ($), a bank note available in the following denominations: $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, $100. Each dollar is comprised of 100 cents, and the following coins are in common use: penny (1 cent, copper), nickel (5 cents, silver), dime (10 cents, silver) and quarter (25 cents, silver). There are 50 cents and 1 dollar coins in US currency but they are not commonly used. All American bank notes are green and are the same exact size and shape.

Banking

Opening a bank account in America is usually straightforward and requires the customer to provide proof of address and an amount to deposit. If you have an employer in the country, being able to provide the bank with this information will also help.

Most importantly you should

1. Have a letter that you received at your new residence as 'proof of address' and
2. Be able to deposit money - preferably at least $500 or more.

Within half an hour you will be choosing the design on your checkbook and picking out a PIN # for the account's ATM card.