How to Spot a Fake $100 Bill from 1990

Spotting a counterfeit $100 bill from 1990 can be challenging but crucial for protecting yourself from fraud. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you identify whether your bill is real or fake.

Understanding the Security Features

1. Watermark: Hold the bill up to the light. A genuine $100 bill has a prominent security thread embedded in the paper, visible as a dark vertical stripe running along the left side. This thread should be visible from both sides of the bill. On older $100 bills, this thread might not be as prominent, but you should still see some form of it.

2. Color-Shifting Ink: Tilt the bill and look at the "100" in the bottom right corner. On a genuine bill, this number will shift color from green to black. This feature is designed to prevent counterfeiting and can be less effective in older bills.

3. Fine Line Printing: The edges of the portraits and other key elements on a genuine bill are sharp and clear. Counterfeit bills often have blurry or inconsistent lines.

4. Security Thread and Microprinting: Besides the large security thread, genuine $100 bills contain microprinting around the portrait and within the bill’s borders. This is often difficult to replicate accurately.

Examining the Bill’s Physical Characteristics

1. Paper Quality: Genuine $100 bills are made from a distinct blend of cotton and linen, which gives them a unique texture. The paper should feel slightly rough and not overly smooth or glossy.

2. Raised Printing: Rub your fingers over the bill. Genuine bills have raised printing that can be felt with your fingertips. This is particularly noticeable around the portrait and the “100” in the lower right corner.

3. Size and Dimensions: Compare the size of the bill with another known genuine $100 bill. Counterfeit bills might be slightly off in dimensions, though this can be subtle.

Special Features for Older Bills

1. Red and Blue Threads: Older $100 bills, such as those from the 1990 series, have small red and blue threads woven into the fabric. These threads should be evenly distributed throughout the bill and should not come off easily.

2. Holographic Stripe: Some older bills include a holographic stripe that changes color under different light angles. This stripe should be securely embedded in the bill.

3. Serial Numbers: Check the serial numbers on the bill. Genuine bills have unique serial numbers that are evenly spaced and uniformly printed. Counterfeit bills often have irregular spacing or overlapping numbers.

Testing Methods

1. Black Light Test: Use a black light to inspect the bill. Genuine $100 bills will exhibit certain features under UV light that counterfeits typically do not. This can include a security thread that fluoresces under UV light.

2. Pen Test: A counterfeit detection pen can be used to mark the bill. Genuine bills react differently to the pen than fake ones. However, this method is less reliable for older bills.

Conclusion

Spotting a fake $100 bill from 1990 requires a keen eye and attention to detail. By checking for specific security features, examining the bill’s physical characteristics, and using reliable testing methods, you can significantly reduce the risk of accepting counterfeit currency. Remember that counterfeiters are always improving their techniques, so staying informed about the latest security features is crucial for effective detection.