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What Are War Bonds: Definition and History

By Robin Hartill, CFPUpdated Oct 19, 2025 at 9:36 PM

Key Points

  • War bonds funded U.S. military efforts in WWI and WWII, encouraging public investment to support wars.
  • U.S. war bonds were zero-coupon, bought at a discount, and matured at a higher face value.
  • Series E war bonds, discontinued in 1980, can still be redeemed to assess their current value.

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