Counterfeit money is a serious problem, and knowing how to spot a fake $100 bill can save you from significant financial losses. While sophisticated counterfeits exist, many fakes can be identified with a few simple checks. This guide provides easy-to-follow methods to verify the authenticity of your $100 bills.
The Feel Test: Texture and Paper Quality
The first line of defense is your sense of touch. Genuine $100 bills are printed on a special cotton-linen blend. This gives them a unique texture – crisp, slightly rough, and not flimsy like regular paper.
- Compare it to a known genuine bill: If you have a bill you know is real, compare the feel. A counterfeit will often feel thinner, smoother, or even slightly oily.
- The "feel" factor is subjective: While not definitive proof, a noticeably different texture is a red flag.
The Watermark Test: Hidden Images in the Light
Watermarks are a key security feature. Hold the bill up to a light source. You should see a faint image of Benjamin Franklin embedded in the paper itself to the right of his portrait. This watermark should be clearly visible when held against a light.
- Check for clarity: A blurry or poorly defined watermark is a strong indication of a counterfeit.
- Pay attention to detail: The watermark should be detailed and crisp, mirroring the printed image on the bill.
The Security Thread Test: A Vertical Stripe of Security
Look closely at the bill's vertical security thread to the left of Franklin's portrait. This embedded thread should be visible when holding the bill up to the light. It should contain the letters "USA" and the numeral "100" printed in repeating patterns.
- Examine closely: A missing or poorly printed security thread is a major sign of a counterfeit.
- Observe the light: The thread should appear as a continuous, unbroken line.
The 3D Security Ribbon Test: A Shifting Color Feature
The $100 bill features a 3D Security Ribbon to the right of Franklin's portrait. This ribbon shifts from bells to "100s" as you tilt the bill. The effect is subtle but noticeable.
- Tilt and observe: The colors should shift smoothly. A static or poorly defined image is suspicious.
- Look for clarity: The bells and "100s" should be distinct and well-defined.
The Iridescent Ink Test: Color-Shifting Ink
The "100" in the lower right corner should display color-shifting ink. As you tilt the bill, this number changes color from copper to green.
- Check the transition: The color change should be distinct and smooth. A lack of color-shifting or a dull appearance warrants suspicion.
- Examine for imperfections: Faulty ink application often shows up as smudging or uneven color distribution.
Beyond the Basics: When to Seek Professional Help
While these checks significantly improve your ability to identify a fake $100 bill, some highly sophisticated counterfeits can still slip through. If you remain uncertain, or if you suspect you've received a counterfeit, contact your local law enforcement agency or a bank for professional verification.
By employing these simple tests, you significantly increase your chances of avoiding counterfeit currency. Remember, being vigilant is your best defense against financial fraud.
