One Hundred Dollar Bill Motion Picture Use Only
Have you ever seen a one hundred dollar bill with the words "Motion Picture Use Only" on it? If you have, you might have wondered what it means. In this article, we'll explore the history and purpose of these bills and why they should not be used as legal tender.
The History of Motion Picture Use Only Bills
These bills were first introduced in the 1960s as props for use in movies and television shows. The bills were designed to look like real currency but were marked with the words "Motion Picture Use Only" to prevent them from being mistaken for real money. These bills were used in countless movies and TV shows, from classic films like The Godfather to modern hits like Breaking Bad.
Why Can't They Be Used as Legal Tender?
Despite their realistic appearance, these bills are not legal tender and cannot be used to purchase goods or services. Attempting to use these bills as legal tender is illegal and could result in fines or even jail time. This is because the bills are not backed by the United States Treasury and are not recognized as legitimate currency.
How to Spot a Motion Picture Use Only Bill
If you come across a one hundred dollar bill with the words "Motion Picture Use Only" on it, there are a few key things to look for to determine if it is a prop or a counterfeit bill. First, check for the watermark and security strip, which are present in real currency but not in prop bills. Additionally, the serial numbers on prop bills are often the same or are not sequential, while real currency has unique serial numbers in a specific sequence.
The Value of Motion Picture Use Only Bills
Although these bills have no actual value as currency, they can still be collectible items for movie and TV enthusiasts. Some prop bills from popular movies and shows can fetch high prices at auction or on collector's websites. However, it is important to note that buying or selling these bills for the purpose of using them as legal tender is illegal.
Conclusion
In summary, one hundred dollar bills marked with "Motion Picture Use Only" are not legal tender and should not be used as currency. These bills were created as props for use in movies and TV shows and are not recognized by the United States Treasury. While they may be valuable to collectors, attempting to use them as legal tender is illegal and could result in serious consequences.