Wilson Financial Services Inc.

(859) 824-9422

Money Read Time: 3 min

Countering Counterfeit Currency

Believe it or not, the agency responsible for protecting U.S. currency is the United States Secret Service. The agency was founded on July 5, 1865, as part of the Department of the Treasury to combat the widespread counterfeiting of currency happening at the end of the Civil War.1

Combating counterfeiting remains core to preserving the integrity of the nation’s money.

Money Matters

The advent of high-tech printers and inks continues to raise the bar on what the federal government needs to do to limit counterfeiting, leading to a range of new strategies.

To make U.S. paper currency more difficult to copy, there have been continual changes to the artwork, paper, and ink. Summarized below are some of these recent changes.2

Portrait - The portrait has become much more sophisticated by becoming closer to a lifelike picture than the screen-like background it was previously. On counterfeit bills, the portraits often appear to be unclear or unnaturally white.

Border - The border design is now composed of intricate, crisscrossing lines that are clear and unbroken, distinguishing them from the smudged or broken lines of counterfeit bills.

Paper - The paper is now embedded with tiny red and blue fibers. A polyester thread is also woven inside $10, $20, $50, and $100 bills with “USA TEN, USA TWENTY” printed on them to match the denomination. This makes it nearly impossible for photocopiers to reproduce.

Ink - The ink used is a special, “never-dry” ink that can be rubbed off. This is not foolproof, however, since ink on some counterfeit bills can be rubbed off as well.

Microprinting - Surrounding the portrait are the words “The United States of America” in miniature letters. It appears to be a black line to the naked eye, and is how a photocopier would reproduce it.

Keep in mind that you are not reimbursed for any counterfeit currency that may come into your possession. So you are advised to be careful about the large bills you accept for payment.

1. SecretService.gov, 2023
2. USCurrency.gov, 2023

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

 

Related Content

Encore Careers: Push Your Boundaries

Encore Careers: Push Your Boundaries

Ready for retirement? Find out why many are considering encore careers and push your boundaries into something more, here.

9 Facts About Retirement

9 Facts About Retirement

Regardless of how you approach retirement, there are some things about it that might surprise you.

An Overview of Renter’s Insurance

An Overview of Renter’s Insurance

Don’t overlook the need for renter’s insurance if you rent your home.

 

Have A Question About This Topic?







Thank you! Oops!

Social Security Benefits: How Much Will I Receive

Calculating your potential Social Security benefit is a three-step process.

Is a SEP-IRA Right for Your Business?

For some, the idea of establishing a retirement strategy evokes worries about complicated reporting and administration.

Buying vs. Leasing a Car

Whatever your relationship with your car, it may eventually come time for a new one. Familiarize yourself with your options.

View all articles

Home Mortgage Deduction

Use this calculator to assess the potential benefits of a home mortgage deduction.

Federal Income Tax

Use this calculator to estimate your income tax liability along with average and marginal tax rates.

Bi-Weekly Payments

This calculator estimates the savings from paying a mortgage bi-weekly instead of monthly.

View all calculators

5 Smart Investing Principles

Principles that can help create a portfolio designed to pursue investment goals.

Protecting Those Who Matter Most

The importance of life insurance, how it works, and how much coverage you need.

Investment Strategies for Retirement

Investment tools and strategies that can enable you to pursue your retirement goals.

View all presentations

The Cost of Procrastination

Procrastination can be costly. When you get a late start, it may be difficult to make up for lost time.

Surprise! You’ve Got Money!

Here’s a quick guide to checking to see if you have unclaimed money.

The Rule of 72

Do you know how long it may take for your investments to double in value? The Rule of 72 is a quick way to figure it out.

View all videos