How to Tell if a 10 Dollar Bill Is Real?
Learn to confidently verify $10 bills. Understand the key indicators of authenticity and proper steps for suspected counterfeits.
United States currency incorporates various security measures to deter counterfeiting. These features are designed to make genuine bills identifiable and replication difficult. Understanding these elements helps distinguish authentic currency from fraudulent reproductions. This article examines specific security features to help identify a real $10 bill.
Understanding Security Features
The paper used for all United States currency is distinctive, composed of 25% linen and 75% cotton. This gives it a unique feel that differs from typical printing paper. Tiny red and blue security fibers are embedded randomly throughout the paper.
A watermark, depicting Alexander Hamilton, is visible in the blank space to the right of the portrait when the bill is held up to light. This faint image can be seen from both sides of the bill.
An embedded security thread runs vertically to the right of Hamilton’s portrait. When held to light, this thread reveals the text “USA TEN” and a small flag in an alternating pattern. This thread also glows orange when illuminated by an ultraviolet (UV) light source.
The large numeral “10” in the lower right corner on the front of the bill is printed with color-shifting ink. When tilted, this “10” changes color from copper to green. Microprinting is present in several locations, such as around the border of Hamilton’s portrait and on the torch. These tiny, sharp words, like “USA 10,” “THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” or “TEN DOLLARS USA,” are difficult for standard printers to reproduce.
Genuine $10 bills feature raised printing, particularly noticeable on Hamilton’s portrait and textual elements. This intaglio printing process gives the bill a distinctive texture that can be felt by touch. Each bill also has a unique serial number, a combination of eleven numbers and letters, which appears twice on the front. Newer series $10 bills incorporate subtle background colors, such as orange, yellow, and red.
Steps to Verify Authenticity
Begin by feeling the texture of the bill. Genuine $10 bills possess a slightly rough and crisp feel. Running a finger over the portrait of Alexander Hamilton and the major lettering should reveal distinctive raised ink.
Next, hold the bill up to a light source. A watermark of Alexander Hamilton should appear in the blank space to the right of the portrait. A vertical security thread should also be visible to the right of the portrait, containing the repeating text “USA TEN” and a small flag.
Tilt the bill to observe the color-shifting ink on the numeral “10” in the lower right-hand corner. This “10” should distinctly change from copper to green as the angle of view shifts. For a closer inspection, a magnifying glass can be used to examine the microprinting. Tiny, sharp text should be discernible and clear.
If available, a UV light can be used to further verify the security thread. When exposed to UV light, the security thread in a genuine $10 bill should glow a distinct orange color, while the rest of the bill remains dull.
Action for Suspected Counterfeit Bills
Should you suspect a $10 bill is counterfeit, handle it as little as possible to preserve evidence. Avoid passing the suspected fake bill to another party, as knowingly circulating counterfeit currency carries legal consequences. Do not attempt to re-circulate the bill.
Contact your local police department or a local field office of the U.S. Secret Service to report the suspected counterfeit. Provide information about how and where the bill was received. This assists law enforcement in tracking and apprehending counterfeiters.