How Do You Know a 100 Dollar Bill Is Real?

In today's world, counterfeit money is a significant concern for both individuals and businesses. With the increasing sophistication of counterfeiters, it is crucial to be able to identify genuine currency. One of the most common questions people ask is, "How do you know a 100 dollar bill is real?" In this article, we will discuss various methods and techniques to help you determine the authenticity of a 100 dollar bill.

1. **Feel the texture**

One of the first steps in identifying a real 100 dollar bill is to feel its texture. Genuine currency has a distinctive feel, with a smooth, soft texture. Counterfeit bills often have a rough or grainy texture. Additionally, real currency has raised ink, which can be felt when running your fingers across the paper.

2. **Check the watermark**

The watermark is a crucial feature of a 100 dollar bill. Look for the watermark of Benjamin Franklin, which is visible when holding the bill up to the light. The watermark should be clear and crisp, with the same size and color as the portrait on the bill. Counterfeit watermarks are often blurry, distorted, or missing.

3. **Inspect the security thread**

A security thread runs vertically through the paper of a 100 dollar bill. Look for the thread's metallic strip, which is visible when the bill is held up to the light. The thread should be visible on both sides of the bill and should be the same color as the thread on the front. Counterfeit bills may have a security thread, but it is often of a different color or may not be visible on both sides.

4. **Observe the color and design**

Real 100 dollar bills have a distinct color scheme and design. The front of the bill features a portrait of Benjamin Franklin, with a blue and gold color scheme. The back of the bill has a color-changing bell in the upper right corner, which changes from copper to green when tilted. Counterfeit bills may have a similar color scheme but often lack the clarity and sharpness of the genuine bill.

5. **Check the serial numbers**

Serial numbers are unique to each bill and can be found on the front and back of the bill. Genuine serial numbers are clear, sharp, and consistent in size. Counterfeit serial numbers may be blurry, faded, or have inconsistent sizing.

6. **Use a magnifying glass**

A magnifying glass can be a valuable tool in identifying counterfeit bills. Look for fine lines and patterns on the bill, such as the small letters "USA" in the currency's denomination, which can be seen with a magnifying glass. Counterfeit bills may lack these fine details or have poor-quality printing.

7. **Use a UV light**

A UV light can reveal hidden features on a 100 dollar bill that are not visible to the naked eye. Genuine currency has a purple fluorescent strip that runs vertically through the paper. When exposed to UV light, the strip should glow. Counterfeit bills may lack this feature or have a faint glow.

In conclusion, identifying a real 100 dollar bill requires a combination of visual inspection, tactile examination, and the use of tools such as magnifying glasses and UV lights. By following these steps, you can be more confident in your ability to distinguish genuine currency from counterfeit bills. Always remember that the safety of your finances depends on your ability to recognize genuine currency.