Fakes and Forgeries a Problem in U.S.

7/14/2004

Overview
These twenties are real, made at the U.S. Bureau of Engraving in Washington D.C.

Most people spend their whole lives in pursuit of earning, inheriting or winning it. But for some, the temptation is just too great; they literally make it. Money, cash, greenbacks--whatever people call it, they go to great lengths to get it. Here you can learn about new initiatives by the U.S. Secret Service to make counterfeiting more difficult and how you can protect yourself.

The bills are passed around the economy undetected, undermining the strength and backing of U.S. currency.
'Funny Money' Prevention
Overview
Inspecting bills for flaws is crucial to catching counterfeiters.

There's over $70 billion of U.S. currency in circulation as of July 2004. The U.S. Secret Service says some of that consists of fake bills created by printing presses in homes, trailers  and garages. The bills are passed around the economy undetected, undermining the strength and backing of U.S. currency. 

Counterfeiters consider themselves craftsmen. They're proud of their work and the product they create. For some, it's a challenge and a thrill for them to beat the system. But like any crime, there are victims. They leave businesses and individuals stuck with worthless paper.

Nifty Fifty Features
Overview
Released this year, this new $50 bill has added security features that make if more difficult to forge.

Authorities say counterfeiters are getting smarter as technology advances. To curb counterfeiting and stay one step ahead, the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing unveiled a new $50 bill in 2004 with revamped security features. The Bureau also released a new $20 bill in 2003 and has plans for a new $100 bill in 2005. Become familiar with the new $50 bill and protect yourself and your business.

The Secret Service is counting on you to inspect every bill you accept. The new series has counterfeiting measures that are easy to spot. Below are up-close pictures of each of these features. You can learn more by visiting the Bureau of Engraving and Printing web site here.

Overview There's a watermark of Grant on the front right side of the bill. Hold it up to the light and you'll see it. Overview There's a security strip that runs vertically down the middle of the bill and glows under ultraviolet light. It has the words "USA 50" and a small flag on it. Overview The small number 50 in the corners is printed with color-changing ink--copper or green depending on how the light hits it. Overview There's tiny microprinting along Grant's collar that is very difficult for a scanner to reproduce.
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