With ones and fives, Disney Dollars debuted at Disneyland on May 5, 1987 and at Walt Disney World on October 2, 1987. Each bill is uniquely numbered, which made them an instant hit with Disney collectors. It was imperative that the “happiest currency on earth” had a realistic look and feel so Disney Dollars were printed on 100 percent cotton at a specialty printer in Battle Creek, Michigan. The first Disney Dollars featured Mickey Mouse, who appeared on the $1 bill, and Goofy, who appeared on the $5 bill. Later, a $10 bill featuring Minnie Mouse was added on November 20, 1989, and a $50 bill featuring Mickey Mouse was added on July 17, 2005, for the 50th anniversary of Disneyland. The Walt Disney Company was one of the first private institutions to print its own money and have it accepted and used like the U.S. Dollar and each Disney Dollar is signed by currency treasurer Scrooge McDuck. For most years since 1987, Disney Dollars have come in various designs and denominations, celebrating Disney characters, anniversaries, films, and attractions. They may be used as payment, just like cash, at any Disney location in the United States, including the Disneyland Resort in California, the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, and even aboard the Disney Cruise Line.
By D23′s Billy Stanek
