What a Real 100 Dollar Bill Looks Like

The 100 dollar bill, also known as the C-note, is a vital part of the U.S. currency system. It features a range of distinctive characteristics that make it recognizable and difficult to counterfeit. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you should look for to ensure that a 100 dollar bill is real:

1. Portrait of Benjamin Franklin: The front of the bill displays a large, clear portrait of Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. Franklin's image is centered on the bill, and it's detailed with fine lines and shading to prevent counterfeiting.

2. Security Thread: Embedded in the bill is a vertical security thread that runs from top to bottom. This thread is a thin strip of metal or plastic that is partially visible from both sides of the bill. When held up to the light, it will appear as a dark stripe that says "USA 100."

3. Color-Shifting Ink: The numeral "100" in the bottom right corner on the front of the bill is printed with color-shifting ink. When you tilt the bill, the color changes from copper to green, which helps to authenticate the bill.

4. Watermark: To the right of Franklin's portrait, there is a faint watermark that replicates Franklin's image. It is visible when the bill is held up to the light and appears as a lighter, semi-transparent version of Franklin’s portrait.

5. Security Thread and Microprinting: In addition to the vertical security thread, there are also microprinted words along the security thread and around Franklin's portrait. These tiny inscriptions are hard to replicate and can be checked using a magnifying glass.

6. Holographic Bell: The bill features a small, silver holographic bell with a faint "100" inside it. This bell is located to the right of Franklin’s portrait and is another layer of security.

7. Raised Printing: The bill has raised printing on the words "THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS." This tactile feature allows you to feel the text when you run your fingers over it.

8. Federal Reserve and Treasury Seals: The bill displays two distinct seals: the Federal Reserve Seal on the left side and the Treasury Seal on the right side. Both seals are in green and feature intricate designs.

9. Serial Numbers: The bill has two serial numbers, one in the upper left and one in the lower right corners. These serial numbers are unique to each bill and are printed in black ink. They also include a series letter that changes periodically.

10. Enhanced Security Features: Recent versions of the 100 dollar bill include additional features such as a blue security ribbon woven into the bill, which is not easily replicated. This ribbon has tiny images of bells and 100s that move when the bill is tilted.

These features make the 100 dollar bill highly secure and difficult to counterfeit. It's essential to familiarize yourself with these characteristics to easily identify a real 100 dollar bill from a fake one.

In Conclusion: Recognizing the authenticity of a 100 dollar bill involves checking a combination of visible and tactile features. By understanding and verifying these details, you can ensure that the bill in your possession is genuine.