How to Detect Counterfeit US Money
Feel the texture of the paper., Notice the thinness of the bill., Compare the bill with another of the same denomination and series.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Feel the texture of the paper.
Counterfeit money will often feel distinctly different from authentic money.
Authentic money is made from cotton and linen fibers.
This differs significantly from normal paper, which is made from trees.
Real money is made to be more durable and should feel crisp despite its age; normal paper becomes torn and soft when worn.
The paper that banknotes are printed on is not sold commercially.
Also, the chemical composition of the paper and ink is confidential.
Even if you do not have much experience in spotting a counterfeit, you should notice a clear difference in texture.
Genuine currency has slightly raised ink that is produced in the intaglio printing process.
You should be able to feel the texture of this ink, especially if you are holding a new dollar bill.
Run your fingernail over the portrait's vest of the bill.
You should feel distinctive ridges.
Counterfeiters cannot reproduce this. -
Step 2: Notice the thinness of the bill.
Genuine money is often thinner than counterfeit money.
The process for making money involves applying thousands of pounds of pressure during the printing process.
As a result, real money should feel thinner and crisper than regular paper.The only option available to most counterfeiters is to use thin rag paper, which can be purchased at most office supply stores.
Still, this paper should feel thicker than authentic money. , Different denominations will look different, so get a note of the same amount.
If you are still suspicious about the quality of a bill, holding it next to a bill you know is authentic may help you feel a difference.
All denominations, except the $1 and $2, have been redesigned at least once since 1990, so it is best to compare the suspect bill to one in the same series, or date.
While the look of money has changed over the years, the distinctive feel has been left largely unchanged.
The feel of a bill made 50 years ago should feel similar to a brand new dollar bill. -
Step 3: Compare the bill with another of the same denomination and series.
Detailed Guide
Counterfeit money will often feel distinctly different from authentic money.
Authentic money is made from cotton and linen fibers.
This differs significantly from normal paper, which is made from trees.
Real money is made to be more durable and should feel crisp despite its age; normal paper becomes torn and soft when worn.
The paper that banknotes are printed on is not sold commercially.
Also, the chemical composition of the paper and ink is confidential.
Even if you do not have much experience in spotting a counterfeit, you should notice a clear difference in texture.
Genuine currency has slightly raised ink that is produced in the intaglio printing process.
You should be able to feel the texture of this ink, especially if you are holding a new dollar bill.
Run your fingernail over the portrait's vest of the bill.
You should feel distinctive ridges.
Counterfeiters cannot reproduce this.
Genuine money is often thinner than counterfeit money.
The process for making money involves applying thousands of pounds of pressure during the printing process.
As a result, real money should feel thinner and crisper than regular paper.The only option available to most counterfeiters is to use thin rag paper, which can be purchased at most office supply stores.
Still, this paper should feel thicker than authentic money. , Different denominations will look different, so get a note of the same amount.
If you are still suspicious about the quality of a bill, holding it next to a bill you know is authentic may help you feel a difference.
All denominations, except the $1 and $2, have been redesigned at least once since 1990, so it is best to compare the suspect bill to one in the same series, or date.
While the look of money has changed over the years, the distinctive feel has been left largely unchanged.
The feel of a bill made 50 years ago should feel similar to a brand new dollar bill.
About the Author
Kimberly Hughes
Brings years of experience writing about practical skills and related subjects.
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