How to Spot a Fake $100 Bill

1. Examine the Security Thread
The $100 bill features a security thread running vertically to the left of Benjamin Franklin’s portrait. This thread is embedded in the paper and appears as a metallic strip when held up to the light. The thread should have the text “USA 100” repeated along its length. On a counterfeit bill, the thread may not be present, or it may appear as a simple printed line.

2. Check the Watermark
A genuine $100 bill has a watermark of Benjamin Franklin that is visible when held up to the light. The watermark should match the portrait on the bill, and it should be a subtle but noticeable part of the paper. Counterfeit bills often fail to reproduce this watermark accurately, either making it too faint or completely absent.

3. Inspect the Color-Shifting Ink
The lower right corner of the $100 bill features a color-shifting ink. When you tilt the bill, the number “100” in this area should change color from copper to green. Counterfeit bills may have poor color-shifting or none at all. This feature is difficult to replicate accurately and serves as a critical tool for identifying fakes.

4. Feel the Texture
Authentic $100 bills are made from a unique blend of cotton and linen, giving them a distinct texture. When you run your fingers over a genuine bill, it should feel slightly rough. Counterfeit bills may feel smoother or different in texture due to the use of inferior paper or printing techniques.

5. Look for Microprinting
Genuine $100 bills have tiny text in various locations, such as around Franklin’s collar and in the border of the bill. This microprinting is hard to reproduce accurately. Use a magnifying glass to examine these areas; if the text appears blurry or doesn’t exist, the bill may be counterfeit.

6. Observe the Raised Printing
Genuine $100 bills have raised printing, particularly on the large “100” and “FRN” (Federal Reserve Note) text. You can feel the raised texture by running your fingers over these areas. Counterfeit bills may lack this feature or have poorly done raised printing.

7. Use a UV Light
When exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, genuine $100 bills reveal additional security features, including a blue security thread that glows under UV light. Some counterfeit bills may not exhibit this glowing effect or may show it in a different color.

8. Verify the Serial Numbers
Each $100 bill has a unique serial number printed in two locations. The numbers should be evenly spaced and printed in a consistent font. Check the numbers against a known genuine bill; counterfeit bills often have irregularities in serial numbers, such as odd spacing or inconsistent fonts.

9. Examine the Portrait
The portrait of Benjamin Franklin on the $100 bill is detailed and includes fine lines and shading. Compare the portrait on your bill with a known genuine bill. On a counterfeit, the portrait may appear blurry or lack detail.

10. Test the Bill with a Counterfeit Detection Pen
Counterfeit detection pens contain iodine-based ink that reacts with the starch in regular paper. When you mark a bill with this pen, it should leave a yellow mark on counterfeit bills due to the absence of cotton fibers. Genuine $100 bills, being made of a cotton-linen blend, should not react with the pen, leaving a brown or clear mark.

By employing these techniques, you can significantly improve your ability to detect fake $100 bills. Remember, counterfeiters are constantly improving their methods, so staying informed about new security features and detection techniques is crucial.**