K.E.M. Strategic Partners LLC | 35 Village Road, Suite 100 | Middleton MA 01949 | P. 978-560-3404  |  F. 978.560.1623

 
 

Caring  |   Independent   |   Practical
Financial Services

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

Saving for College

Saving for College

This calculator can help you estimate how much you should be saving for college.

Saving for College 101

Saving for College 101

Here’s a crash course on saving for college.

Insurance Needs Assessment: Married With Children

Insurance Needs Assessment: Married With Children

When you’re married and have children, insurance needs will be different.

 

Have A Question About This Topic?







Thank you! Oops!

Breaking Down the Parts of Medicare

Medicare is broken down into four specific parts—but what do they mean? This article will help you understand each piece.

Navigating Retirement Pitfalls

Why are they made again and again? Making sense of these errors in judgement.

Find That Lost Retirement Account

With over 24 million “forgotten” 401(k) accounts, you may be surprised to learn of your unclaimed “found” money.

View all articles

Lifetime of Earnings

Estimate how much you have the potential to earn during your working years.

Should I Buy or Lease an Auto?

This calculator compares the financial impact of leasing versus buying an automobile.

Home Mortgage Deduction

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

View all calculators

Investment Strategies for Retirement

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

Managing Your Lifestyle

Using smart management to get more of what you want and free up assets to invest.

Protecting Those Who Matter Most

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

View all presentations

A New Way to Look at Your Bucket List

Bucket lists don’t have to be for tomorrow.

The Long Run: Women and Retirement

For women, retirement strategy is a long race. It’s helpful to know the route.

Suddenly Single: 3 Steps to Take Now

Have you found yourself suddenly single? Here are 3 steps to take right now.

View all videos