How to Tell if a US 20 Dollar Bill is Real

Introduction
In the modern world, counterfeiting has become increasingly sophisticated. The US $20 bill is a popular target for counterfeiters due to its common usage. Fortunately, there are several methods to distinguish a genuine $20 bill from a counterfeit one. This guide will provide a detailed look into various security features and practical steps you can use to verify the authenticity of a $20 bill.

1. Feel the Texture
Genuine US $20 bills are printed on a unique blend of cotton and linen, giving them a distinct texture. The paper feels slightly rough and crisp, unlike ordinary paper. Run your fingers over the bill; a real bill will feel different from a counterfeit one, which may feel smooth or glossy.

2. Examine the Watermark
A prominent security feature on the $20 bill is the watermark. To verify it:

• Hold the bill up to a bright light.
• Look for a faint image of Andrew Jackson, the face on the bill, positioned to the right of the portrait.
• The watermark should match the portrait on the bill and be visible from both sides.

3. Check the Security Thread
The $20 bill has a security thread running vertically through it. Here's how to check it:

• Hold the bill up to the light.
• You should see a thin, vertical strip of metallic thread embedded in the paper.
• This thread is inscribed with the words "USA TWENTY" and is colored in a metallic blue or green, depending on the bill's condition.

4. Look for the Color-Shifting Ink
The bill features color-shifting ink, which changes color when you tilt it. To verify this:

• Tilt the bill back and forth.
• The number "20" in the bottom right corner should shift from green to black.
• This feature is difficult to replicate accurately with counterfeit bills.

5. Inspect the Microprinting
Microprinting involves tiny text that is difficult to reproduce. Here's how to check:

• Use a magnifying glass or jewelers loupe.
• Look for the small text around the portrait and on the security thread.
• Genuine bills will have clear, sharp text, while counterfeit bills may have blurry or indistinct text.

6. Verify the Raised Printing
Genuine $20 bills have raised printing that you can feel with your fingers. Check this by:

• Running your fingers over the bill.
• The portrait and the “USA TWENTY” text should feel slightly raised.
• This tactile feature is challenging to duplicate in counterfeit bills.

7. Examine the Portrait
The portrait of Andrew Jackson should be sharp and well-defined. Here’s what to look for:

• Check for fine details.
• The eyes, hair, and other facial features should be crisp and clear.
• Counterfeit bills may have a blurry or smudged portrait.

8. Review the Border Details
The $20 bill has intricate borders with fine lines and detailed patterns. To verify:

• Inspect the border around the portrait and the bill’s edges.
• The lines should be clear and uninterrupted.
• Counterfeit bills often have broken or inconsistent border lines.

9. Examine the Back of the Bill
The back of the $20 bill features a depiction of the White House. To check its authenticity:

• Inspect the details of the White House image.
• Look for clear lines and details in the architecture and windows.
• Counterfeit bills may have blurred or distorted images.

10. Use a UV Light
A UV light can reveal hidden features:

• Shine a UV light on the bill.
• Genuine bills will display fluorescent features, such as a security thread that glows under UV light.
• Counterfeit bills may lack these fluorescent characteristics.

11. Use a Currency-Checking Pen
Currency-checking pens contain ink that reacts with the paper:

• Mark a small area on the bill with the pen.
• Genuine bills will show a yellow or light brown mark, while counterfeit bills may turn black.
• This test is not foolproof but can be a helpful quick check.

12. Verify the Bill’s Size
Genuine $20 bills have precise dimensions:

• Measure the bill with a ruler.
• It should be approximately 2.61 inches by 6.14 inches.
• Counterfeit bills may have slight size variations.

13. Compare with a Known Genuine Bill
If in doubt, compare the suspect bill with a known genuine $20 bill:

• Place the bills side by side.
• Compare the color, texture, and features to check for discrepancies.
• Genuine bills will have consistent features, while counterfeits may show differences.

14. Use a Bill-Checking Device
Advanced devices can quickly verify a bill’s authenticity:

• Use a specialized bill-checking machine.
• These devices can analyze various security features and provide instant results.
• They are commonly used by businesses and financial institutions.

15. Seek Professional Assistance
If you remain uncertain, seek help from a professional:

• Visit a bank or financial institution.
• They can use advanced tools and expertise to verify the bill’s authenticity.

Conclusion
By using these methods, you can effectively determine whether a US $20 bill is real or counterfeit. Employing a combination of tactile, visual, and technological checks will provide the best results. Always stay vigilant and knowledgeable to protect yourself from counterfeit currency.