The U.S. government printed less money in September compared to August, according Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) figures released on Friday.

643,200,000 U.S. banknotes were manufactured last month worth $4,028,800,000. That compares to 667.5 million notes worth $10.5 billion in August.

While the production pace was just slightly down with some 24 million fewer notes (nearly negated when considering September had one less day than August), the total dollar value of money printed was substantially lower at less than half. The difference between months is mostly due to zero $100 bills produced in September.

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The Senate and House passed legislation late last week seeking to commemorate in 2011 — with gold, silver and clad coins — the legacy and founding of the United States Army Infantry in 1775 and the establishment of the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center.

Both chambers passed nearly identical bills, indicating their full support for the overall legislation. Each version would have the U.S. Mint issue the following uncirculated and proof coins:

• $5 gold coin with a limited mintage of 100,000
• $1 silver dollar with limit of 500,000
• 50c clad limited to 750,000

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