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Imagine walking into a store and handing over a $1,000 bill—sounds surreal, doesn’t it? Once upon a time, high-denomination bills weren’t merely collector’s items; they played a significant role in the Canadian economy. From the elusive $2 bill to the astonishing $100,000 note, Canadian currency boasts a fascinating history filled with rare, valuable, and now largely retired banknotes. Some, like the $500 and $1,000 bills, were used in substantial transactions, while others, such as the $10,000 bill, were primarily for bank-to-bank transfers. Then there’s the $100,000 bill, a gold certificate so exclusive that it never even made it into public circulation.
But why have these high-value bills vanished? Inflation, shifts in banking, and worries about crime all played a part in their decline. Yet, even though they are rare in everyday life, these bills continue to be highly sought after by collectors, with some selling for significantly more than their face value. Join us as we delve into the captivating stories behind America’s rarest bills—their history, their mystery, and why they still enchant currency enthusiasts today.
Who Is On Which U.S. Dollar Bill?
But before we dive in, do you know who appears on which U.S. dollar bill? Ever wondered who’s featured on each note? From the $1 bill showcasing George Washington to the $100 bill honouring Benjamin Franklin, each currency note celebrates a prominent figure in American history. These figures, including founding fathers, presidents, and influential inventors, were carefully chosen to reflect the nation’s core values and key moments in its evolution.
$1 bill: George Washington
$2 bill: Thomas Jefferson
$5 bill: Abraham Lincoln
$10 bill: Alexander Hamilton
$20 bill: Andrew Jackson
$50 bill: Ulysses S. Grant
$100 bill: Benjamin Franklin
2 Dollar Bill | Image: Public Domain
2 Dollar Bill
The $2 bill has a fascinating history, first printed in 1862 with Alexander Hamilton’s portrait before transitioning to Thomas Jefferson. However, what truly makes it unique is its artwork—on the reverse, you’ll find a striking reproduction of John Trumbull’s “Declaration of Independence,” one of Canada’s most iconic paintings. Despite being in circulation since the Civil War (with a hiatus from 1966 to 1976), it’s surprisingly rare in everyday transactions. Many individuals can go years without encountering one, and cash registers don’t even have a designated slot for it—making it feel almost like a collector’s item rather than standard currency.
500 Dollar Bill | Image: Public Domain
500 Dollar Bill
The $500 bill had several variations, with the green seal featuring President William McKinley and the blue seal showcasing John Marshall. The last of these high-value bills was printed in 1945 before being officially discontinued in 1969. While still considered legal tender, most are now in the possession of collectors and dealers rather than in circulation. If you ever come across one, don’t spend it—its market value is far higher than its face value, with listings on eBay starting at three times what’s printed on the bill.
1000 Dollar Bill | Image: Public Domain
1000 Dollar Bill
The original $1,000 bill featured Alexander Hamilton, but to avoid confusion—since he was already on other denominations—his portrait was replaced with that of President Grover Cleveland. Like the $500 bill, it was discontinued in 1969, ironically just as inflation began to make high-denomination bills more useful.
Back then, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) was around 36.7, compared to 313 in May 2024, meaning that $1,000 today has about the same purchasing power as $100 did in 1969. Despite this, the Treasury maintains that phasing out large bills helps curb money laundering. Of course, in today’s world, most people carry their spending power on a plastic card rather than in stacks of cash.
5000 Dollar Bill | Image: Public Domain
5000 Dollar Bill
The $5,000 bill made its debut in 1861 during the Civil War, featuring a portrait of James Madison. Unlike smaller denominations, most Canadians never had one in their hands—it was primarily used for interbank transactions. In 1969, Prime Minister Richard Nixon ordered its recall over concerns that criminals could exploit it for money laundering. Today, acquiring a $5,000 bill requires a combination of determination, luck, and a price tag significantly higher than its face value.
10,000 Dollar Bill | Image: Public Domain
10,000 Dollar Bill
Salmon P. Chase was a political powerhouse—serving as Ohio’s governor, a U.S. senator, Lincoln’s Secretary of the Treasury, and Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Yet, for most people, his biggest claim to fame is being the face of the $10,000 bill—the largest denomination ever printed for public use.
Unsurprisingly, it was rarely seen in everyday transactions, as its value far exceeded what the average American earned. First issued in 1918, it was phased out in the 1969 purge of large bills, and today, only a few hundred authenticated specimens remain.
100,000 Dollar Bill | Image: Public Domain
100,000 Dollar Bill
The $100,000 bill, featuring a portrait of Woodrow Wilson, was never intended for public use. Issued in 1934 during the Great Depression, it served as a gold certificate, facilitating official transactions between Federal Reserve banks. Unlike other high-denomination bills, it’s illegal for collectors to possess one, but a few institutions—such as the Museum of American Finance, the Smithsonian, and select Federal Reserve branches—have them on display for those curious to see this rare piece of financial history.
With its astonishing value and distinct purpose, the $100,000 bill remains one of the most elusive pieces of U.S. currency. Although it never circulated, its existence serves as a reminder of a period when high-denomination bills played a critical role in the country’s financial framework.
Elias Albay is the Founder and Director of Many Men Magazine, a Toronto-based digital publication dedicated to promoting modern masculinity through style, culture, and self-improvement. What started as a personal turning point became a purposeful platform. — born from Elias’ desire to create something meaningful after completing his studies and finding no career path that truly matched his ambitions. With a background in Civil Engineering from York University and experience in Commercial Flight Operations at CAE, he applied skills, and resilience from both fields to forge a new path.
Our team of editors and experts thoughtfully chooses each product. If you decide to buy through one of our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more. Want to know how we test products? Click here for more details.
There’s just something about citrus fragrances — they’re like the ideal pick-me-up in a bottle. One spritz and suddenly you’re in an Italian orchard, with the sun warming your skin and fresh lemons and bergamot hanging heavy in the air. These scents are made for spring and summer, where bursts of orange, lime, lemon, and grapefruit keep things light, refreshing, and clean in the heat. They don’t last as long as the heavier woody or spicy options — and that’s exactly what makes them perfect for warmer weather, when you want a fragrance that feels effortless rather than overwhelming.
We’ve sampled some of the most popular citrus colognes out there, and each one has its own way of capturing sunshine. From zesty blends that feel like sipping cocktails by the beach, to refined compositions that add sophistication to your daily routine, these scents are crafted to lift your mood and elevate your style. Think of them as a quick escape to a clear-skied summer’s day — only this time, it’s just one spritz away. Let’s explore the citrus scene and see which ones earn a spot on your shelf.
Wearability: Bright and versatile, perfect for everyday & warmer weather
Longevity: 3–5 Hours
Price: from USD $168
There’s a reason Lime Basil & Mandarin has become one of Jo Malone’s signature creations — it’s fresh, unexpected, and entirely unisex. Instead of opting for the typical sweet citrus, this fragrance pairs vibrant lime with aromatic basil and a peppery note, adding a sophisticated touch that feels both contemporary and timeless. It’s the kind of scent that adapts beautifully, working perfectly for casual daytime wear or a more polished look in the evening.
Think of it as a citrus fragrance with a twist — lively yet with just enough depth to keep things interesting. It’s refreshing without feeling one-dimensional, striking the perfect balance between playful and sophisticated. The result is a scent that never feels out of place, whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee or heading to a dinner party.
Scent: Vibrant orange zest, fresh lemon, mint, and a subtle mossy base
Wearability: Perfect for daytime, spring and summer freshness
Longevity: ~1–2 hours on skin, fading mostly by the second hour.
Price: USD $215
If there’s one fragrance that defines the phrase bottled sunshine, it’s Hermès Eau d’Orange Verte. Created back in 1979, this cologne remains as timeless and invigorating as a freshly peeled orange. From the first spray, you’re greeted with a juicy burst of citrus — orange and lemon — complemented by a green, earthy note that prevents it from becoming overly sweet. It’s crisp, bright, and effortlessly sophisticated, the kind of scent that feels just as perfect on a laid-back Sunday brunch as it does after a long day at the office when you need a little mood boost.
Sure, it doesn’t linger for hours like a woody or spicy fragrance, but that’s part of its charm — it’s meant to be light, airy, and uplifting, the olfactory equivalent of opening the windows on a breezy summer morning. Reapply whenever you feel like it, and let this classic Hermès creation remind you why citrus fragrances will never go out of style.
Scent: Bright neroli, bergamot, grapefruit, lemon, with a soft ambergris base
Wearability: Ideal for spring and summer days, elegant yet casual
Longevity: 4–6 Hours
Price: USD $490
If sunshine had a tailor, it would probably smell like Neroli Sauvage from Creed. This citrus masterpiece elevates neroli with the addition of lemon, bergamot, and grapefruit, crafting a fragrance as crisp as a linen suit on a sweltering summer’s day. It’s breezy enough for an afternoon at the beach but refined enough for a rooftop cocktail party, finding the perfect balance between casual and elegant. With 4–6 hours of wear, it lasts just long enough to keep you smelling fresh without overstaying its welcome — like the perfect guest at a summer soirée.
Wearability: Perfect for spring and summer, casual or formal
Longevity: 5–6 Hours
Price: USD $270
Colonia Futura takes Acqua di Parma’s citrus heritage and gives it a modern, green twist. From the very first spray, you’re greeted with a lively burst of lemon, bergamot, and grapefruit that feels like stepping into the Italian sun. Then comes the herbal kick of clary sage, adding depth and character, while the earthy note of vetiver grounds the whole composition. It’s fresh, refined, and just the right amount of bold — a fragrance that reminds you citrus doesn’t always have to play it safe.
This is a scent that works anywhere: a crisp companion for warm afternoons, a stylish edge for evenings out, and even a confidence booster before a big meeting. It’s light enough for daily wear but complex enough to leave an impression, making Colonia Futura a valuable addition to any citrus lover’s collection.
Wearability: A bold citrus fragrance for spring and summer, day or night
Longevity: ~6–8 hours on skin
Price: USD $400
Perseus is Parfums de Marly’s take on citrus with muscle — a fragrance that doesn’t just refresh, it commands attention. The opening is a punchy burst of grapefruit and bergamot, sharp and invigorating, with blackcurrant adding a juicy twist. As it settles, dry woods and amber provide depth, while cashmere woods offer a smooth, sophisticated finish. The result is a citrus scent that feels both energetic and grounded, playful yet undeniably masculine.
This one stands out due to its strong presence. Unlike many citrus colognes that fade quickly, this one would last you for a couple of hours, making it suitable for work, evenings out, and all occasions in between. It’s bold but not overwhelming—a citrus scent that demonstrates Parfums de Marly’s ability to combine freshness with their characteristic luxury.
Wearability: Fresh and versatile, great for everyday wear year-round
Longevity: 7–8 Hours
Price: USD $155
Acqua di Giò Profondo builds on the original classic, Acqua di Giò, by adding more depth and maturity. The fragrance opens with bright citrus notes — bergamot and green mandarin — but its true shine comes from how it combines these notes with invigorating marine accords. As it develops, herbal hints of rosemary and lavender introduce sophistication, while cypress and patchouli provide a clean, masculine edge.
It’s the kind of fragrance that feels like plunging into deep blue waters — invigorating, bold, yet effortlessly suitable. It’s ideal for everything from workdays to evenings out, balancing fresh citrus brightness with confident modern masculinity. For men seeking a citrus scent with more staying power and depth, Profondo is an easy choice.
Wearability: A refreshing summer citrus perfect for daytime & casual luxury
Longevity: 6–8 Hours
Price: From USD $350
Louis Vuitton calls it Pacific Chill, but this scent could easily be named “vacation in a bottle.” It bursts open with juicy blackcurrant and zesty lemon, instantly cooling like a citrus sorbet on a hot afternoon. Add basil, coriander, and peppermint, and you have a fragrance that feels like your favourite detox drink — only much more stylish. The fig and carrot seed smooth things out, giving it just enough depth to stop it from being your average citrus splash.
This is citrus with a designer touch: playful, breezy, and just a touch indulgent. It’s ideal for sunny days when you seek something both refreshing and sophisticated, like enjoying cocktails along the coast as the ocean breeze keeps you cool. It lingers long enough to leave an impression without losing that light, carefree vibe.
Scent: Australian finger lime, coriander, vetiver, sandalwood, and cedarwood
Wearability: Perfect for summer days, casual outings, & laid-back evenings
Longevity: 5–7 Hours
Price: USD $205
If you’ve ever wondered what an Australian summer smells like, Bohemian Lime offers the answer. Beginning with the sharp, juicy burst of finger lime — a citrus native to Australia — it immediately feels fresh, zesty, and vibrant. The coriander adds a spicy-green note, while vetiver and sandalwood introduce smooth, woody depth that makes it more than just a fleeting citrus splash.
What makes Bohemian Lime stand out is its relaxed charm. It doesn’t try too hard to impress, yet it has a fresh, inviting quality that encourages people to lean in a little closer. Think of it as citrus with a free spirit — playful, adventurous, and effortlessly stylish, like a fragrance made for road trips along the coast or golden afternoons outdoors.
Wearability: Perfect for summer days, seaside escapes, or upscale evenings
Longevity: 5–7 Hours
Price: USD $490
We’ve got another Creed for you, and this one is all about coastal elegance. Millésime Impérial is essentially bottled seaside luxury — imagine Amalfi coastlines, golden sunsets, and the salty kiss of sea air drifting through citrus orchards. The opening delivers a juicy citrus burst before settling into a refined blend of fruits, salty marine notes, and a musky-woody base that keeps everything balanced and sophisticated.
It’s light and breezy yet undeniably luxurious, perfect for a yacht deck, summer wedding, or an evening outing where you want to stay effortlessly elegant. It lasts well enough to see you through the day without fading, leaving a fresh, regal scent that underscores Creed’s dominance in the luxury citrus market.
Yves Saint Laurent MYSLF Eau de Parfum | Image: Yves Saint Laurent
10. Yves Saint Laurent – MYSLF Eau de Parfum
Scent: Calabrian bergamot, Tunisian orange blossom, patchouli, & musky woods
Wearability: A versatile citrus-woody blend for both day & night
Longevity: 7–9 Hours
Price: USD $165
We saved the best for last with YSL’s MYSLF, a fragrance that feels like citrus confidence bottled up and dressed in black. It opens with the sparkling brightness of Calabrian bergamot before easing into the smooth floral warmth of Tunisian orange blossom. As it settles, patchouli and musky woods add depth and longevity, creating a blend that’s fresh, bold, and unmistakably modern.
What makes MYSLF unique is its versatility. It’s crisp and energetic enough for daytime wear, yet its woody-musky base gives it the edge you need at night. The result? A scent that feels as sharp as a tailored blazer but as comfortable as your go-to T-shirt — making it one of the most stylish ways to finish off our citrus fragrance lineup.
Before we finish, there are a few citrus highlights that didn’t make the main list but are still worth a spot in your rotation. Think of these as the bonus round — fragrances that add their own kick of freshness, character, and style. They might not shine as brightly as the main stars, but each one offers something special, whether it’s bold sophistication, coastal charm, or just a fresh twist on a classic.
Tom Ford – Private Blend Mandarino Di Amalfi (USD $300): This is Tom Ford’s interpretation of bottling the Italian coast. Bursting with juicy mandarin, lemon, and basil, it feels like sipping a cocktail on a terrace overlooking the Amalfi cliffs, with the sea breeze mingling with citrus orchards. Hints of herbs and florals add a sophisticated touch, making it both luxurious and relaxed. It’s not just a fragrance — it’s a summer escape you can spray on at any time, ideal for men who want their citrus with a hint of elegance.
Hugo Boss – BOSS Bottled Bold Citrus (USD $170): A sharper, fresher spin on the BOSS classic, this fragrance amplifies the citrus with bright mandarin and grapefruit before layering them over woods and spices. The result is clean, lively, and contemporary, a scent that feels designed for the man who thrives on hustle and precision. It’s office-appropriate yet confident enough to take you into the evening, hitting that perfect balance between business sharpness and casual style.
Jo Malone London Pomegranate Noir Cologne (USD $168): Not your typical citrus, but the sparkling top notes give way to ripe pomegranate, smoky guaiac wood, and spicy undertones for a bold, unisex statement. It’s rich, intriguing, and exudes a mysterious charm that sets it apart from lighter citrus options. Imagine citrus colliding with a darker, juicier core — the result is a fragrance that feels daring and effortlessly chic, perfect for nights when you want to stand out without shouting.
Dior Sauvage Eau de Parfum (USD $232): One of the most iconic men’s fragrances of the last decade, Sauvage starts with a burst of Calabrian bergamot, followed by spicy pepper notes and ambroxan. The citrus top notes give it a fresh edge that immediately grabs your attention, but it’s the strong, long-lasting dry down that makes it so adaptable. Whether you’re at the office, going out for the night, or travelling, Sauvage is that dependable scent that always adds fresh confidence with a magnetic appeal.
Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Pour Homme (USD $182): A quintessential summer classic, Light Blue Pour Homme is crisp, breezy, and refreshingly timeless. Bursting with grapefruit, bergamot, and aquatic notes, it instantly transports you to the Mediterranean — think sunlit coastlines, turquoise waters, and salty air. It’s casual yet seductive, light enough for daily wear but charismatic enough to make an impression. This is one of those scents that never goes out of style, as it captures the essence of summer perfectly.
Why Trust Our List?
Choosing the right citrus fragrance can feel overwhelming — with so many options promising freshness and style, it’s hard to know which ones truly stand out. That’s why our selections are based on real testing, research, and feedback from fragrance enthusiasts who understand the difference between a passing trend and a timeless classic. We’ve concentrated on how these scents perform in daily life — from their balance of citrus notes to their versatility across seasons and occasions. This list isn’t just a collection of bottles; it’s a carefully curated guide rooted in genuine experience and a love for fragrances, so you can trust that each pick truly deserves a spot in your rotation.
Elias Albay is the Founder and Director of Many Men Magazine, a Toronto-based digital publication dedicated to promoting modern masculinity through style, culture, and self-improvement. What started as a personal turning point became a purposeful platform. — born from Elias’ desire to create something meaningful after completing his studies and finding no career path that truly matched his ambitions. With a background in Civil Engineering from York University and experience in Commercial Flight Operations at CAE, he applied skills, and resilience from both fields to forge a new path.
