How To Check Original and Fake Currency

Checking for original and fake currency is crucial to avoid counterfeit money. Here are some common methods to verify the authenticity of currency:

General Tips for All Currencies

1. Feel the Texture: Genuine currency typically has a unique texture due to the special paper and printing process. It should feel crisp and slightly rough.
2. Inspect the Watermark: Hold the bill up to the light to check for a watermark. The watermark should be visible from both sides and match the portrait or design on the bill.
3. Examine the Security Thread: Look for a security thread embedded in the bill. It often runs vertically and may be visible only when held up to the light.
4. Check the Printing Quality: Authentic bills have sharp, clear, and detailed printing. Counterfeit bills often have blurry or smudged images and text.
5. Look for Color-Shifting Ink: Many modern bills use color-shifting ink, which changes color when the bill is tilted.
6. Microprinting: Look for microprinting on the bill, which consists of tiny text that is difficult to replicate. You may need a magnifying glass to see it clearly.
7. Serial Numbers: Ensure that the serial numbers are evenly spaced and match in color and style. Counterfeit bills often have irregularities in the serial numbers.

Specific to Indian Rupee (INR)

1. Mahatma Gandhi Portrait: On the front side of the bill, the portrait of Mahatma Gandhi should be clear and well-defined.
2. Security Thread: The security thread on Indian Rupee notes reads "Bharat" (in Hindi) and "RBI" alternately when viewed from different angles.
3. Watermark: The watermark consists of a light and shade effect and shows the image of Mahatma Gandhi when held up to the light.
4. Latent Image: On the right side of the bill, a vertical band next to the portrait shows the denomination when tilted.
5. Intaglio Printing: The front side of the bill has raised printing, which can be felt by running your fingers over the note.
6. Identification Mark: A special feature for visually impaired individuals, located on the left of the watermark window, helps identify the denomination.

Specific to US Dollar (USD)

1. Portrait and Vignette: The portrait on the front and the vignette (image) on the back should be clear and distinct.
2. Federal Reserve and Treasury Seals: The seals on the front should be clear and sharp. The sawtooth points of the Treasury seal should be distinct.
3. Serial Numbers: The serial numbers should be evenly spaced and printed in the same ink color as the Treasury seal.
4. Color-Shifting Ink: On the $10, $20, $50, and $100 bills, the numeral in the lower right corner shifts from copper to green when tilted.
5. 3D Security Ribbon: On the $100 bill, the blue ribbon woven into the paper has images of bells and 100s that move when you tilt the bill.
6. Bell in the Inkwell: On the $100 bill, a bell and inkwell symbol to the left of the portrait changes color when viewed from different angles.

Using Technology

1. UV Light: Many currencies have features that glow under ultraviolet (UV) light, such as security threads, fibers, or certain inks.
2. Magnifying Glass: Use a magnifying glass to inspect microprinting and other small details that are hard to replicate.
3. Counterfeit Detection Pens: These pens contain an iodine solution that reacts with starch in wood-based paper, turning dark if the bill is fake. Note that this method is not foolproof as some counterfeiters use starch-free paper.

Awareness and Education

1. Stay Updated: Currency designs are periodically updated with new security features. Stay informed about the latest designs and security features of your currency.
2. Bank Verification: If you are ever in doubt, take the currency to a bank for verification.

By using these methods, you can effectively identify genuine currency and protect yourself from counterfeit money.