The history of the U.S. dollar progressed through several periods and changes. It began as backed by both gold and silver from 1792 to 1873 in a bimetallic system. From 1873 to 1971 it was on the gold standard solely. Since 1971 it has been a fiat currency not backed by gold, following the removal of the gold clause from bills. The symbols and designs on the dollar bill represent American values and history.