How to Tell if a Hundred Dollar Bill Is Fake
Gain the essential knowledge and practical steps to confidently authenticate a $100 bill and handle potential counterfeits.
The integrity of the financial system relies on the public’s ability to distinguish genuine currency from counterfeits. While digital transactions are increasingly common, physical currency remains widely used for everyday purchases and exchanges. Counterfeit currency, though relatively small in circulation, poses a risk to individuals and businesses, leading to financial losses if undetected. Understanding the security features embedded in legitimate banknotes is important for everyone handling cash.
Security Features of Genuine $100 Bills
Modern $100 bills incorporate advanced security features designed to deter counterfeiting. These features are difficult to replicate, providing clear indicators of authenticity. Knowing what to look for is the first step in verifying a bill’s genuineness.
A prominent feature is the blue 3-D Security Ribbon, woven into the paper on the front of the bill, to the right of Benjamin Franklin’s portrait. This ribbon contains images of bells and the numeral “100” that appear to move and shift from side to side when the bill is tilted. Another feature is the Bell in the Inkwell, located on the front, right of the portrait. This copper-colored inkwell contains a bell that changes color from copper to green when tilted.
When held to light, a faint Portrait Watermark of Benjamin Franklin becomes visible in the blank space to the right of the portrait. This watermark can be seen from both sides. An embedded Security Thread runs vertically to the left of Franklin’s portrait. When held to light, this thread reveals alternating “USA” and “100” text, and it glows pink under ultraviolet (UV) light.
Color-shifting ink is also used on the large “100” numeral in the lower right corner on the front of the bill. This numeral changes color from copper to green when the bill is tilted. Raised Printing, or intaglio printing, gives genuine currency a distinctive tactile feel. You can feel the slight roughness on Franklin’s portrait, the words “THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” and on the shoulder.
Microprinting, extremely small text, is another security measure. This tiny text, such as “THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” on Franklin’s jacket collar and “USA 100” around the portrait, requires magnification to be clearly visible. The paper itself is composed of 75% cotton and 25% linen, embedded with small red and blue fibers throughout. These fibers are randomly dispersed.
Each $100 bill features a unique Serial Number, an eleven-digit combination of numbers and letters appearing twice on the front. These serial numbers should be crisp and evenly spaced. The Federal Reserve Seal (green, left) and the Treasury Seal (black, right) should appear sharp and distinct.
Inspecting a $100 Bill for Authenticity
Verifying the authenticity of a $100 bill involves examining its security features. By engaging your senses, you can quickly assess whether a bill is genuine or counterfeit.
Begin by using your sense of touch. Run your finger over Franklin’s portrait and along the raised printing. Genuine currency should feel slightly rough and textured.
Next, hold the bill up to a light source. Look for the faint watermark of Benjamin Franklin in the blank space on the right. Observe the embedded security thread to the left of the portrait, confirming “USA 100” text is visible. Under UV light, the security thread should glow pink.
Tilt the bill to activate color-shifting features. Observe the blue 3-D Security Ribbon to see the bells and “100”s move. Check the Bell in the Inkwell, noting the bell changes color from copper to green. The large “100” in the lower right corner also shifts from copper to green when tilted.
Finally, compare other details. Examine the microprinting on Franklin’s collar and other areas, using magnification if needed, to ensure text is sharp. Verify serial numbers are consistent, evenly spaced, and match the Treasury Seal’s color. The Federal Reserve and Treasury Seals should appear sharp and well-defined.
Action Steps for Suspected Counterfeits
If you suspect you have received a counterfeit $100 bill, take specific actions to prevent its further circulation and assist law enforcement. Your response can help preserve evidence and aid investigations.
Do not return the suspected counterfeit bill to the person who gave it to you. Returning it could allow the individual to pass it to someone else or be misconstrued as an attempt to pass counterfeit currency yourself. If possible and safe, observe the individual’s appearance, companions, and vehicle, including the license plate number. This information is valuable for authorities.
Handle the suspected counterfeit bill as little as possible to preserve potential fingerprints or other evidence. Place the bill in a protective covering, such as an envelope or plastic bag, to avoid contamination. This helps maintain evidence integrity.
Contact your local police department or the U.S. Secret Service to report the suspected counterfeit. Find your local police department’s non-emergency number or the nearest Secret Service field office online. Be prepared to provide details such as how, where, and when you received the bill, and any observations about the passer.