Counterfeiting currency has become a technological cat-and-mouse game, with governments enhancing security features while criminals attempt to bypass them. The US Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) continually works to make the US Dollar more resistant to counterfeiting and educates businesses and consumers on detecting fake bills.
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The Basics
The US currently has seven denominations of currency in active circulation: $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100. While older, discontinued denominations remain legal tender, they are rarely used, often held in collections and valued beyond their face value.
Unlike older notes, modern bills are periodically destroyed when damaged and redesigned to improve security, not aesthetics. Redesigns are rigorous and lengthy; for example, the latest $100 note, issued in 2013, took over a decade of research and development.
Timeline for Redesign
The redesign of US banknotes occurs incrementally, with the following timeline for new releases:
| Denomination | Release Year |
|---|---|
| $10 | 2026 |
| $50 | 2028 |
| $20 | 2030 |
| $5 | 2032 |
| $100 | 2034 |
This sequence addresses counterfeiting risks and ensures adequate preparation for production and integration into circulation.
Security Features
The Advanced Counterfeit Deterrence (ACD) Steering Committee, comprising agencies like the BEP, the Federal Reserve, and the US Secret Service, oversees new security measures. Despite efforts, no bill is entirely counterfeit-proof, and education remains a cornerstone of prevention.
Key Security Features to Check:
- Color-Shifting Ink: Tilt the bill to see ink change color on specific numbers or symbols.
- Raised Printing: Feel the texture of the printing on authentic notes.
- Blurred Borders and Text: Counterfeits often show blurry edges or uneven text.
- Red and Blue Threads: Genuine bills have tiny red and blue fibers embedded in the paper.
- Watermarks: Hold the bill to light to see a faint image matching the portrait.
- Security Thread: A vertical thread with text and a glow under UV light runs through the bill.
- 3D Security Ribbon (on $100 bills): Blue ribbon with moving patterns visible when tilted.
Cost of Counterfeiting
The US Treasury estimates that approximately $70 million in counterfeit currency is currently in circulation. Some experts suggest the figure may reach $200 million, as the US Dollar’s global reserve status makes it a frequent target for counterfeiters.
Why Redesigns Take Time
Creating secure currency is a multi-step process:
- Research and Development: Ensures features are difficult to replicate and detectable by institutions.
- Material Preparation: New equipment and controlled raw materials prevent access to counterfeiters.
- Acceptance Testing: Bills undergo extensive testing to meet manufacturing standards.
This meticulous process ensures the government can produce secure, high-quality notes at scale.
Detecting Counterfeit Bills
While technological advancements aid detection, individuals can play a vital role in identifying counterfeit notes:
- Inspect for security features mentioned above.
- Use counterfeit detection pens that react to paper composition.
- Compare suspected bills to known authentic ones for differences.
With counterfeit currency affecting global and local economies, vigilance remains essential. Whether you’re a business owner handling cash transactions or a consumer, understanding these features helps reduce the impact of counterfeit money.
FAQs
What are the denominations of US bills?
The active denominations are $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100.
When was the last $100 bill redesigned?
The most recent redesign was in 2013.
What is the purpose of color-shifting ink?
It makes counterfeiting more difficult by adding dynamic visual security.
How can I check for a watermark?
Hold the bill to light; the watermark should match the portrait.
Are old bills without redesigns still valid?
Yes, but they are less common and often collected.
