How to Spot a Genuine $100 Bill- A Comprehensive Guide to Authenticating Currency

How to Tell a Hundred Dollar Bill is Real

In today’s world, counterfeit currency is a significant concern for both individuals and businesses. With the increasing sophistication of counterfeiters, it has become more important than ever to be able to identify genuine currency. One of the most common denominations that people often need to authenticate is the hundred dollar bill. Here are some tips on how to tell if a hundred dollar bill is real.

Check the Serial Number

One of the first things to do when examining a hundred dollar bill is to check the serial number. Genuine bills have a unique serial number that is printed in a clear, legible font. If the serial number appears blurred, faded, or has missing digits, it could be a sign that the bill is counterfeit.

Inspect the Watermark

The watermark is another crucial feature that helps identify a real hundred dollar bill. When held up to the light, the watermark should be visible on the back of the bill. It should depict the portrait of a famous American president, Abraham Lincoln, and be clear and well-defined. If the watermark is faint or missing, the bill may be counterfeit.

Feel the Paper Texture

Genuine hundred dollar bills are made from a special paper that has a distinctive texture. When you run your fingers over the bill, you should feel a slight raised texture. If the paper feels smooth or lacks this texture, it could be a sign of a counterfeit.

Examine the Security Thread

The security thread is a thin strip of white or metallic material that runs vertically through the bill. When you tilt the bill, the thread should shift from white to green and back again. If the thread does not change color or is missing, the bill may be counterfeit.

Check the Color Shifting Ink

Another feature of the hundred dollar bill is the color-shifting ink. When you tilt the bill, the ink should change from copper to green. If the color does not shift or remains the same, the bill may be fake.

Use the Ultraviolet Light

Ultraviolet light can be a powerful tool in identifying counterfeit bills. When you hold the bill under an ultraviolet light, genuine bills will glow in certain areas. For example, the portrait of Lincoln will glow in the upper right corner of the bill. If the bill does not glow or glows in the wrong areas, it may be counterfeit.

Conclusion

Identifying a real hundred dollar bill can be challenging, but by following these tips, you can increase your chances of detecting counterfeit currency. Always be vigilant and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your business from the risks associated with counterfeit money.