How to Identify a Counterfeit $20 Bill

In a world where counterfeiters are becoming increasingly sophisticated, recognizing a fake $20 bill can be the difference between a successful transaction and a costly mistake. Imagine you’re in a busy store, and the cashier hands you back a $20 bill. You take it, but something doesn’t feel right. The stakes are high—counterfeiting is more advanced than ever, and your vigilance can save you from potential losses.

Step 1: Examine the Paper
The texture of U.S. currency is one of its unique features. Real U.S. bills are made of a special blend of cotton and linen, which gives them a distinct feel. When handling a $20 bill, it should feel slightly rough to the touch, with a texture that is more durable than ordinary paper.

Step 2: Check the Watermark
Hold the bill up to the light to see if a watermark appears. On a genuine $20 bill, there is a watermark of Andrew Jackson, visible from both sides. The watermark should look like a shadowy image and be located to the right of the bill’s portrait. Counterfeit bills often lack this feature or have a poorly replicated watermark.

Step 3: Inspect the Security Thread
The security thread is a thin strip of metallic material embedded vertically in the bill. It should be visible when you hold the bill up to the light. The thread should read “USA TWENTY” when illuminated and be embedded in the bill itself, not just printed on it.

Step 4: Look for Color-Shifting Ink
Tilt the bill and observe the numeral “20” in the bottom right corner. On a real $20 bill, this numeral should shift from copper to green. This color-shifting ink is difficult to replicate and can be a clear sign of a counterfeit.

Step 5: Check the Microprinting
Use a magnifying glass to inspect the tiny text printed on the bill. The $20 bill features microprinting around the portrait and within the security thread. On a genuine bill, this text should be clear and readable, not blurred or smudged.

Step 6: Verify the Raised Printing
Run your fingers over the portrait and the bill’s edges. Real U.S. currency has raised printing that can be felt. This is due to the unique printing process used for genuine bills. Counterfeit bills often lack this raised texture, making them feel flat.

Step 7: Observe the Portrait
Look closely at the portrait of Andrew Jackson. The details should be sharp and well-defined. In counterfeit bills, the portrait may appear blurry or lacking in detail due to lower-quality printing techniques.

Step 8: Check the Bill’s Serial Numbers
Inspect the serial numbers on the bill. They should be evenly spaced and uniformly printed. Counterfeit bills often have irregularities in the spacing or alignment of the serial numbers.

Step 9: Evaluate the Border Lines
The border lines on a genuine $20 bill are sharp and clear. On counterfeit bills, these lines may appear broken or uneven. Run your eyes along the edges of the bill to check for any imperfections.

Step 10: Use a UV Light
Under a UV light, genuine $20 bills will exhibit a glow in various colors. For instance, the security thread will glow green. Counterfeit bills might not glow at all or may have incorrect colors.

Step 11: Consult a Professional
If you’re still uncertain about a bill’s authenticity, consider consulting a professional. Many banks and cash handling businesses have specialized equipment to detect counterfeit money.

Counterfeiting is an ever-present risk, but with these steps, you can protect yourself from falling victim to fake currency. Always trust your instincts and use multiple methods to verify the authenticity of your bills.