How to Spot a Fake New $100 Canadian Dollar Bill

In a world where counterfeit currency is becoming increasingly sophisticated, recognizing fake Canadian $100 bills is crucial for both businesses and individuals. The new $100 bill, part of Canada's polymer series introduced in 2011, comes with a range of security features designed to deter counterfeiters. Understanding these features not only helps in identifying fakes but also ensures that your transactions are secure. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the distinctive characteristics of the genuine $100 bill and how you can spot a counterfeit.

Start with the Feel

One of the simplest ways to detect a fake $100 bill is by feeling it. The polymer material used in Canadian bills gives them a distinctive texture compared to paper-based currency. Authentic bills are crisp, smooth, and somewhat slick to the touch. They also have a unique, slightly plastic feel. A counterfeit bill might feel different—more like regular paper or cardboard.

Examine the Security Features

The $100 bill features several advanced security features that are challenging to replicate. Here’s a breakdown of the key features to check:

1. The Holographic Strip: On the front of the bill, there is a holographic strip running vertically on the right side. This strip contains a series of tiny, moving images that change as you tilt the bill. The images include a maple leaf and the number 100. If the strip is static or shows a blurred image, it could be a fake.

2. The Raised Printing: Run your fingers over the bill’s surface. Authentic bills have raised printing that can be felt easily, particularly on the text and the security features. Fakes often lack this raised texture or have it poorly imitated.

3. The Watermark: When held up to the light, you should see a transparent window with a watermark of the portrait of Sir Robert Borden, along with a color-shifting maple leaf. The watermark is a critical security feature, and any discrepancy here can be a red flag.

4. The Color-Shifting Ink: On the front of the bill, the number 100 in the lower right corner changes color when tilted. It should shift from a dark to a light color. If this effect is not present or seems off, you might be dealing with a counterfeit.

5. The Micro-Printing: Tiny text is printed on the bill that is difficult to replicate with regular printers. Under a magnifying glass, you should be able to read fine print that says “Bank of Canada” and “Canada.” Counterfeit bills often have blurred or unreadable micro-printing.

Inspect the Bill Under Ultraviolet Light

Another effective method is using ultraviolet (UV) light. Genuine $100 bills feature specific UV elements that glow under a UV light. The bill’s security thread should emit a green glow, and the bill should also show various fluorescent colors when exposed to UV light.

Compare with a Known Genuine Bill

If you have access to a genuine $100 bill, use it as a reference. Compare the suspect bill side-by-side with the genuine one, paying close attention to the color, texture, and security features. This side-by-side comparison can help spot subtle differences that might not be apparent when looking at a single bill.

Use a Counterfeit Detection Pen

Counterfeit detection pens are a quick tool for checking the authenticity of currency. They work by marking the bill with a special ink that reacts differently to genuine and counterfeit paper. However, keep in mind that while effective for detecting paper-based fakes, these pens may not always be reliable for polymer bills, so use them as a supplementary measure rather than the primary method.

Be Wary of Bills with Discrepancies

Finally, be cautious if the bill exhibits any discrepancies. Look for issues like mismatched colors, unusual texture, or irregularities in the printing. Even small deviations from the standard design can indicate a counterfeit.

A Final Thought

The stakes are high when it comes to handling currency, and spotting a fake $100 Canadian bill requires vigilance and attention to detail. By familiarizing yourself with the genuine features of the bill and using the methods outlined above, you can protect yourself from counterfeit fraud and ensure the integrity of your transactions.