A recent conversation with a friend, explored differing opinions regarding “In God We Trust” on U.S. currency. We are aware of opinions that “In God We Trust” has always been on U.S. currency, and the adamant support that goes with that belief. My friend also came across someone who was willing to boycott the new dollar coin because he felt it was improper for a U.S. coin to not host the phrase, “In God We Trust.”

First, we should be clear that the phrase “In God We Trust” was not always on U.S. currency, just as “under God” was not always a part of the “Pledge of Allegiance.” These phrases were added around the time of World War II.

Regardless, I wanted this anonymous person (I have no idea who it is) to rest assured that “In God We Trust” has not been removed from new coinage, simply moved to the side of the coin instead of on the face of the coin.