Knowing how to tell if a bill is fake is important for businesses and consumers. Recently, several of our local businesses unknowingly accepted fake “movie prop” bills that closely resembled real U.S. currency.
Counterfeit money can appear convincing at first glance, especially during busy transactions. Taking a few extra seconds to inspect cash can help prevent financial loss and protect you and your business from fraud.
What Is Movie Prop Money?
Movie prop money is fake currency created for movies, television, social media content, and photography. While legal when clearly marked, some prop bills are designed to closely imitate real money.
Many fake bills include phrases such as:
- “For Motion Picture Use Only”
- “Replica”
- “Copy”
- “Not Legal Tender”
These labels are often printed in small text that can easily be missed. See if you can find what's wrong with the bill below.
How to Tell if a Bill Is Fake by Checking Security Features
Modern U.S. currency includes several built-in anti-counterfeit protections. When checking cash, look for:
- Watermarks
- Security threads
- Color-shifting ink
- Raised printing texture
Hold the bill up to the light to confirm these features are present and properly placed.
Other Signs a Bill May Be Fake
The Paper Feels Wrong
Real U.S. currency uses a unique cotton-linen blend. Fake bills may feel slick, waxy, thick, or too smooth.
Serial Numbers Match
Counterfeit bills are often printed in batches using identical serial numbers. Matching numbers on multiple bills are a major warning sign.
Detection Pens Are Helpful...But Not Perfect
Counterfeit detection pens and UV lights can help identify suspicious cash, but they should be used alongside visual inspection. Fraudsters sometimes print larger denominations on to washed smaller denomination bills. Pens are unable to detect the fake bill because it's printed on real money.
What to Do if You Receive a Fake Bill
If you believe you’ve received counterfeit money:
- Do not give the bill back.
- Limit handling of the bill by placing it in an envelope.
- Document where, when, and from whom you received the bill. Jot down a description of he person if safe to do so.
- Bring the suspected fake bill to your local police station or your local bank. They will be able to help you identify if it is a fake and forward it on to the U.S. Secret Service. The bill cannot be exchanged for a real bill, so prevention and quick reporting is very important!
Additional Counterfeit Money Resources
For more information about counterfeit currency and U.S. bill security features, visit the U.S. Currency Education Program, the U.S. Secret Service Counterfeit Division, or the Federal Reserve.