How to Tell if a $100 Bill is Fake
Protect yourself from financial loss. Learn essential methods to verify the authenticity of $100 bills and handle suspicious currency.
Identifying counterfeit currency is a practical skill for anyone handling cash, particularly the $100 bill, which is a frequent target for counterfeiters. Being able to quickly determine the authenticity of a banknote protects individuals and businesses from financial loss. Understanding the security features embedded in genuine currency allows for informed decisions and helps maintain the integrity of the financial system.
Key Security Features of a $100 Bill
One prominent feature is the blue 3-D Security Ribbon, woven into the paper on the front of the bill. When tilted, bells and the numeral “100” on this ribbon appear to move. This ribbon is integrated into the paper, not merely printed on its surface.
Another significant security measure is the color-shifting ink. The bell within the copper inkwell on the front of the bill, and the large numeral “100” in the lower right corner, change color when the bill is tilted. These elements shift from copper to green, creating a distinct visual effect difficult to replicate.
A faint portrait watermark of Benjamin Franklin is visible in the blank space to the right of the main portrait when the bill is held to light. This image should appear subtle and be visible from both sides of the note. This watermark is an integral part of the paper itself, not an ink overlay.
The security thread is a thin, embedded strip running vertically to the left of Benjamin Franklin’s portrait. When held to light, this thread reveals alternating text of “USA” and “100” along its length. Under ultraviolet (UV) light, the security thread on a $100 bill glows pink.
Microprinting, extremely small, legible text, is present in various locations on the bill. For instance, “THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” is microprinted along Franklin’s collar, and “USA 100” can be found around the portrait watermark. These tiny details are often only discernible with magnification and are difficult for counterfeiters to reproduce.
Genuine U.S. currency has a distinctive tactile feel due to intaglio printing, which creates slightly raised ink. Running a finger across Benjamin Franklin’s shoulder on the left side of the note, or over the Federal Reserve seal, should feel rough to the touch.
Each legitimate $100 bill features a unique serial number, appearing twice on the front of the note. These numbers consist of a combination of eleven letters and digits. Duplicate serial numbers on multiple bills or inconsistencies in their spacing or ink quality can indicate a counterfeit.
Actions to Take if You Suspect Counterfeit Currency
It is important to avoid returning the suspected counterfeit bill to the person who passed it. Attempting to pass it on, even if unknowingly, could lead to legal complications.
Limit handling the suspicious bill as much as possible to preserve potential evidence. Place the bill in an envelope or a plastic bag to prevent further smudging of fingerprints or damage.
Observe and remember details about the individual who presented the bill, such as their physical description, any companions, or vehicle information like license plate numbers and direction of travel. Make a mental note of the circumstances surrounding the transaction.
Promptly contact your local police department or the nearest U.S. Secret Service field office to report the suspected counterfeit currency. Individuals should surrender the currency only to a police officer or a U.S. Secret Service agent.
Cooperate fully with any subsequent investigation, providing all observed details to law enforcement. Federal law makes it a crime to create, possess, or pass counterfeit currency with fraudulent intent, with penalties that can include significant fines and imprisonment.