Duties & Functions

Bureau of Engraving and Printing

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The United States Government began printing money in 1862, when "greenback" currency was issued to finance the Civil War. Five clerks working in the attic of the Main Treasury Building affixed the Treasury Seal to the bills. The functions of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) were formally established on March 3, 1877. It is now administered by the Treasurer of the United States. The BEP's functions include:

• Designing and manufacturing United States currency;
• Designing and manufacturing many postage stamps, customs stamps and revenue stamps;
• Designing, engraving and printing Treasury bills, notes and bonds, and other U.S. securities;
• Designing, engraving and printing commissions, permits, and certificates of awards.