How to Tell if a $100 Bill Is Real

Distinguishing genuine from counterfeit currency is important. Fake money causes financial losses and undermines trust in the monetary system. Understanding U.S. banknote security features helps protect against fraud.

Key Security Features of a $100 Bill

Modern $100 bills incorporate several advanced security features designed to deter counterfeiting, with variations existing between current and older designs. A prominent feature on the current $100 bill is the three-dimensional security ribbon, a wide blue strip woven into the paper. This ribbon contains images of bells and the numeral “100” that appear to move when tilted. The bells change to “100s” and move side-to-side, while tilting the bill side-to-side makes them move up and down.

Another distinctive element on the current design is the color-shifting bell in the inkwell. This copper-colored bell changes to green when the note is tilted. $100 bills include a portrait watermark of Benjamin Franklin. This faint image is visible in the unprinted space to the right of the main portrait when held to light, and it can be seen from both sides.

A security thread is embedded vertically to the left of Benjamin Franklin’s portrait. When held to light, this thread reveals “USA” and “100” in an alternating pattern. Under ultraviolet (UV) light, it glows pink. The numeral “100” in the lower right corner also exhibits color-shifting ink; on current bills, it shifts from copper to green, while on older bills (Series 1996-2013), it changes from green to black.

Raised printing (intaglio printing) gives genuine U.S. currency a distinctive, rough texture, particularly on Benjamin Franklin’s shoulder. Microprinting is extremely small text. On current bills, phrases like “THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” appear on Franklin’s jacket collar, “USA 100” around the portrait watermark, and “100 USA” along the golden quill. Older $100 bills also feature microprinting, such as “USA 100” within the lower left “100” numeral and “THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” on Franklin’s left lapel.

All genuine bills have unique serial numbers, an eleven-character combination appearing twice on the front. The paper itself is composed of 75% cotton and 25% linen, containing subtle red and blue security fibers throughout.

Verifying Authenticity

To verify authenticity, examine the paper and printing quality. Run your finger along Benjamin Franklin’s portrait and the other dark areas on the bill; you should feel a slightly raised texture from the intaglio printing. A genuine bill’s texture will feel distinct from regular paper.

Next, hold the bill up to a light source to check for the watermark and security thread. The faint image of Benjamin Franklin should be visible in the blank space to the right of the portrait, from both sides. Simultaneously, observe the embedded security thread to the left of the portrait; it should display the alternating “USA” and “100” text.

Afterward, tilt the bill to observe the color-shifting features. On the current $100 bill, tilt the note back and forth to see the bells and “100s” in the blue security ribbon appear to move. Also, tilt the bill to see the copper bell in the inkwell change to green, and the numeral “100” in the lower right corner shift from copper to green. For older bills, the “100” in the lower right corner will shift from green to black.

Lastly, use a magnifying glass to inspect the microprinting in various locations, such as Benjamin Franklin’s collar and around the portrait watermark. The text should appear sharp and clear, not blurry or smudged. While not a definitive test on its own, counterfeit detector pens can be used, but their accuracy is limited as they only react to the paper composition, not the advanced security features.

Reporting Suspected Counterfeits

If you suspect a counterfeit $100 bill, handle it carefully. Do not return the suspected counterfeit bill to the person who passed it to you, as this could lead to its re-circulation and potentially involve you in illegal activity. Instead, try to remember any descriptive details about the person who tendered the bill, such as their physical characteristics or vehicle information, if applicable.

Secure the suspected bill in a protective envelope or bag to prevent further handling and preserve evidence. Minimize touching to avoid smudging fingerprints. Promptly report the incident to your local police department or the nearest U.S. Secret Service field office. These agencies are responsible for investigating counterfeiting and can provide specific instructions on how to submit the suspected note.

If you are an individual, your local police department or bank can assist in forwarding the suspected counterfeit currency to the Secret Service. Financial institutions and businesses typically have established procedures for reporting, often involving the Secret Service Form (SSF) 1604 or online reporting. Depositing a counterfeit bill, even unknowingly, can result in its confiscation by the bank, and your account will be debited for the amount.