What happens if an Argentine wants to change it in Brazil or use it in Miami?

The dollar bills, known as the “small side,” are causing confusion among savers. Although they are legal tender in the United States, their acceptance may be limited

12/29/2025 – 6:42 p.m

The term “little face” refers to the $100 bills issued until 1996, which feature Benjamin Franklin’s image in a smaller oval frame than later designs. Despite this, All banknotes issued by the Federal Reserve (FED) since 1914 retain their legal tender status, regardless of their age or design.

However, outside the US, many operators – exchange offices, shops and “dens” of the informal market – discriminate against them or pay less for them because they have fewer security features than the newer copies.

This phenomenon occurs not only in Argentina but is also observed in several Latin American countries.

The Central Bank regulations and the options for Argentinians

The Central Bank of the Argentine Republic (BCRA) has introduced a mechanism that allows banks to receive and receive money Redeem “Small Face” or damaged notes to send them to the Fed and receive more modern emissions in exchange.

Originally this program was temporary, but after several extensions and changes in regulations The BCRA eliminated the fixed term and retained the ability to deposit these bills without an expiration date.. Of course: Membership is voluntary for every banking institution, so it is advisable to consult before joining.

The usual process is:

• Check whether the bank is a member of the program.
• Deposit banknotes that meet minimum integrity criteria (e.g. more than 50% paper and with identifiable denomination and security measures).
• Withdraw money with a more modern design or deposit them in an account.

This measure aims to avoid loss of value in the informal market and encourage savers to use formal channels to “recycle” their banknotes.

Are Small Face Dollars Useful in Brazil and Other Countries in the Region?

If an Argentinian plans to travel to Brazil with “Small Face” dollars, it is important to know that:

• In Brazil the The official and mandatory currency for transactions is the RealTherefore, tourists must exchange dollars for reais before or upon arrival.
• Authorized exchange offices can accept dollars, but there is no legal requirement to accept older style banknotes, and many money changers choose to only accept banknotes in good condition or more modern banknotes due to security measures and the risk of local counterfeiting.
• World practice shows that very old or damaged banknotes are less accepted outside the USA.especially if they are wrinkled or have fewer security features.

In summary, although they can theoretically be exchanged at exchange offices in Brazil, it is likely that they will charge higher commissions or reject banknotes in worse condition.

And in Miami or within the United States?

Within the United States, small dollars are accepted as legal tender In banks, stores and ATMs they are issued at face value because they are simply US dollars, regardless of design or age.

The following can happen:

• Small businesses or machines (e.g. parking meters or kiosks) will not accept bills that are not easily recognizable. due to lack of modern security or automatic detection.
• US banks often exchange old notes for new versions in exchange for a down payment or allow cash to be issued directly without a discount.

Here’s what this means for Argentine travelers Using these dollars in Miami should not cause any general problemsalthough it is always advisable to wear them in good condition and not too worn to avoid specific rejections.

Conclusion: What happens to an Argentinian with “Small Face” dollars abroad?

Small change dollars are valid and they are legal tender, but their practical acceptance varies by location:

• In Argentina: Many informal institutions discriminate against them or pay lessalthough there are banking mechanisms to exchange them for free.
• In Brazil: You can accept them in exchange offices, but They are likely to demand tickets in excellent condition or charge more for them.
• In the United States (including Miami): generally they work to pay or deposit, although certain companies may have higher requirements for the appearance and design of the invoice.

The recommendation from financial experts and travelers is to deposit them in a bank and withdraw them with a newer design before traveling, or simply use them directly in the US if you plan to spend dollars in cash.