How to Check if a Hundred Dollar Bill Is Real?

Identifying genuine hundred-dollar bills is important due to their significant value. Understanding the distinctive characteristics of authentic banknotes can help protect against financial loss. This knowledge equips the public to recognize counterfeits, contributing to the security and integrity of the monetary system. Vigilance helps prevent the circulation of fraudulent money.

Key Security Features

Genuine hundred-dollar bills incorporate several advanced security features to deter counterfeiting. One prominent feature is the 3-D Security Ribbon, a blue band woven into the paper, not printed on it. This ribbon contains images of bells and “100”s that appear to move when the bill is tilted.

Another notable element is the color-shifting Bell in the Inkwell, located on the front of the bill. This bell is printed in copper-colored ink and changes to green when the bill is tilted, appearing to move within the inkwell. Holding the bill up to a light source reveals a subtle Portrait Watermark of Benjamin Franklin, which is visible from both sides of the note. This watermark is an integral part of the paper itself.

A Security Thread is embedded vertically into the paper. When held to a light, this thread glows pink and features alternating “USA” and “100” inscriptions visible along its length. Microprinting, tiny text that is difficult to replicate, can be found in various locations, including along Franklin’s collar, around the quill to the right of the portrait, and within the border of the bill. These minute details require magnification to be clearly seen.

Raised Printing gives genuine bills a distinctive tactile feel. Running a finger over Franklin’s portrait, the Federal Reserve seal, and the text “THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” should reveal a noticeable texture. Serial Numbers, unique combinations of letters and numbers, are printed in the same color as the Treasury seal and appear in two locations on the front of the bill. These numbers should be sharp and evenly spaced.

Genuine hundred-dollar bills feature tiny Red and Blue Fibers embedded randomly throughout the paper. These fibers are not printed on the surface but are an integral part of the paper pulp. The Distinctive Paper Quality of authentic currency feels crisp, durable, and slightly textured.

The Verification Process

Begin by tilting the bill back and forth, observing the 3-D security ribbon. The bells and “100”s on this blue ribbon should appear to move. Simultaneously, watch the copper-colored Bell in the Inkwell on the front of the bill; it should shift to green.

Next, hold the bill up to a light source to check for embedded features. A Portrait Watermark of Benjamin Franklin should become visible. While holding it to the light, locate the vertical security thread, which should reveal “USA” and “100” repeating along its length and glow pink under ultraviolet light.

Then, lightly run your finger across the surface of the bill, particularly over Benjamin Franklin’s shoulder and the “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” text. You should feel a slight raised texture. Carefully examine the bill with a magnifying glass if available, looking for the tiny microprinting along Franklin’s collar, inside the border, and around the quill. The characters should be clear and not blurry.

Confirm the presence of tiny red and blue fibers randomly dispersed throughout the paper. Finally, scrutinize the serial numbers, which should be crisp, evenly spaced, and match the color of the Treasury seal. Checking multiple points of authenticity increases the likelihood of detecting a fake.

Reporting Suspected Counterfeits

If you suspect you have received a counterfeit hundred-dollar bill, it is important to handle the situation carefully to preserve evidence and prevent further circulation of the fake currency. Do not return the bill to the person who gave it to you, as this could allow them to pass it on to another unsuspecting individual. Try to remember any details about the person or how you came into possession of the bill.

Limit your handling of the suspected counterfeit bill as much as possible to avoid smudging fingerprints or disturbing other potential evidence. Place the bill in a protective envelope or plastic bag. Promptly contact your local police department or the nearest office of the U.S. Secret Service to report the incident.

When reporting, provide as many details as you can recall about the transaction, including the date, time, location, and a description of the individual who presented the bill. Law enforcement agencies rely on these reports to track and apprehend counterfeiters. Cooperating with authorities helps to remove fraudulent currency from circulation and protects the broader economy.