Learn to differentiate between real and fake to avoid scams

$100 Bills: How to Identify the Real Ones and Avoid Falling for Scams

The threat of counterfeit $100 bills Small-faced dollars: myths and reality

The threat of counterfeit $100 bills

According to Michael Lambert, director of Banknotes at the Federal Reserve Board In the United States, there is a “highly sophisticated system of counterfeiting dollars” operating outside the country. To combat this threat, the Federal Reserve has developed a currency education program that seeks to prevent the circulation of counterfeit bills.

Five keys to identifying authentic $100 bills

The Federal Reserve’s education program highlights five key elements that help determine the authenticity of a $100 bill:

1. Texture: The authentic banknotes have a rough texture to the touch, resulting from a blend of 25% linen and 75% cotton. They also feature red and blue security fibers woven into the paper.

2. 3D safety strip: A woven (not printed) blue ribbon runs along the front of the note. When the note is tilted, the ribbon changes color and displays moving images.

3. Bell inside an inkwell: This detailed drawing, located on the right side of the bill, changes color from green to copper when tilted. It took Federal Reserve experts ten years to create.

4. Watermark: The image of Benjamin Franklin, visible when held up to the light, is a security measure implemented since 2013.

5. Security thread: When the bill is held up to the light, the inscription “USA 100” can be seen. Under ultraviolet light, the thread glows pink.

Small-faced dollars: myths and reality

The $100 bills with the smaller image of Benjamin Franklin, known as the “small face,” often generate doubts and are the subject of speculation and even scams. To clarify the situation and avoid confusion, it is important to know the official position of the United States Federal Reserve on the value and validity of these bills.

Myth: Small-sided bills are worth less.

Fact: All $100 notes issued by the U.S. Federal Reserve, regardless of design, are legal tender and retain their $100 face value. The Federal Reserve has repeatedly confirmed that there is no difference in the value or validity of the “small-face” notes compared to newer designs.

Additional recommendations to avoid scams:

• Be suspicious of bills with a smooth texture or excessive shine.
• Compare the security features with an authentic banknote of the same denomination.
• Use counterfeit detectors if you have them available.
• Be careful when receiving $100 bills in casual transactions or from dubious sources.
• Report any counterfeit banknotes you detect to the authorities.
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