How to Spot a Fake $100 Bill (Old Version)
Before we dive into the nuances, it's important to note that while counterfeiters are becoming more sophisticated, the U.S. government has continually updated its banknotes to stay one step ahead. Older bills, however, lack some of the advanced security features found in newer versions. So, if you’re examining an older bill, you’ll want to focus on a few key markers that still apply.
The Paper Texture: The first thing to check is the feel of the paper. Genuine U.S. bills are printed on a unique blend of cotton and linen, giving them a distinct texture. Fake bills often feel too smooth or too rough. Rub your fingers over the bill, especially across the portrait. Does it feel right? Counterfeit bills might feel more like regular paper, as they lack the special materials used by the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing.
Watermark Test: Hold the bill up to the light. Even older $100 bills feature a watermark—a faint image visible when viewed against a bright source. On genuine notes, this watermark matches the portrait of Benjamin Franklin. If the watermark is absent or depicts someone else, you’re holding a fake. Keep in mind that older versions of the $100 bill might have less prominent watermarks, but they should still be there.
The Security Thread: Look for a thin vertical security thread running through the bill. This thread is embedded in the paper and can only be seen when the bill is held up to the light. On older $100 bills, the thread should be located to the left of Franklin’s portrait. It should also be inscribed with small text reading “USA” and the bill’s denomination. If the thread is missing or appears as part of the printed design, the bill is counterfeit.
Color-Shifting Ink: Examine the number “100” printed in the lower right corner of the front side of the bill. On genuine $100 bills, this number is printed using color-shifting ink that changes from green to black when you tilt the bill. Counterfeiters often struggle to replicate this effect. If the color remains the same or doesn't shift smoothly, you’re dealing with a fake.
Raised Printing: Genuine U.S. currency has raised printing that you can feel with your fingertips. Run your finger across the surface of the bill, especially over Franklin’s portrait. If the printing feels flat or unusually smooth, that’s a red flag. Counterfeiters often use inkjet or laser printers that cannot replicate the raised printing effect.
Microprinting: On an authentic $100 bill, you’ll find tiny, finely detailed text in several locations, such as around the portrait and the border. This microprinting is so small that it’s difficult to replicate without sophisticated printing equipment. Counterfeit bills often lack these tiny details, or they may appear blurry under magnification. If you have a magnifying glass handy, check the text. Blurry or missing microprinting is a surefire sign of a fake.
Check the Serial Numbers: Every U.S. bill has a unique serial number printed twice on the front. On older $100 bills, these numbers should be evenly spaced and aligned. Fake bills often have misaligned or inconsistent serial numbers. Additionally, check that the serial number matches the series year printed on the bill. If the numbers don’t match or look odd in any way, you’re probably holding a counterfeit.
The Treasury Seal: The Treasury Seal, located to the right of Franklin’s portrait, is another important security feature. On a genuine bill, the seal is crisp, clear, and free of smudges or irregularities. Counterfeiters often struggle to accurately reproduce this seal, resulting in blurry or uneven edges. If the seal looks suspicious, it’s worth further investigation.
UV Light Test: Older $100 bills, like newer ones, contain embedded security features that are only visible under ultraviolet (UV) light. When exposed to UV light, the security thread on a genuine bill should glow pink. Counterfeit bills may lack this feature entirely, or the thread might glow a different color. This is one of the most reliable tests for spotting a fake bill.
Comparison with a Known Genuine Bill: One of the simplest ways to spot a counterfeit is to compare the suspicious bill with a known genuine bill of the same denomination and series. Place the two bills side by side and check for differences in size, color, and details. Even small discrepancies in design or printing quality can indicate a fake.
The Portrait Test: On genuine U.S. currency, the portraits are detailed and lifelike, with fine lines that create a three-dimensional appearance. On counterfeit bills, the portraits often look flat, dull, or blurred. The fine details around the eyes, nose, and mouth are particularly difficult for counterfeiters to replicate. If Franklin’s face looks odd or lacks depth, you’re likely holding a fake bill.
Edges and Borders: Genuine bills have sharp, clear borders and well-defined edges. Counterfeit bills often have blurry or uneven borders, especially around the edges of the bill. This can be a sign that the bill was printed using a low-quality printer. Check the fine lines in the design—if they’re smudged or unclear, the bill is likely fake.
Handling Fake Bills: If you suspect that you’ve received a counterfeit $100 bill, do not try to pass it on. Instead, contact your local authorities or the U.S. Secret Service, which is responsible for investigating counterfeit currency. You may also want to inform the person or business that gave you the bill, as they might not be aware it’s fake. Remember, knowingly passing counterfeit money is a crime, even if you received it unintentionally.
In summary, the best defense against counterfeit bills is knowledge. Familiarize yourself with the key security features of genuine U.S. currency, and trust your instincts if something feels off. By staying vigilant and using the tips outlined in this article, you can easily spot fake $100 bills and protect yourself from financial loss.
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