1988 Series $100 Dollar Bill Real Or Fake
Introduction
With the rise of counterfeit money, it's important to know how to identify a fake 1988 series $100 dollar bill. This article will guide you through the various security features and characteristics of a genuine bill, as well as common methods used by counterfeiters.
Watermark
The watermark is one of the most important security features of a genuine $100 bill. Hold the bill up to the light and you should see a faint image of Benjamin Franklin on the right side of the bill. If the watermark is missing or does not match the portrait, the bill is likely fake.
Security Thread
Another important security feature is the security thread. This is a thin strip running vertically through the bill, visible when held up to the light. The thread should say "USA 100" and be positioned to the left of the portrait. If the thread is missing, the bill is likely fake.
Color-Shifting Ink
The number "100" on the bottom right-hand corner of the front of the bill should change color from copper to green when tilted. This is due to the use of color-shifting ink, and is another security feature of genuine bills.
Raised Printing
Genuine bills have raised printing, which means you can feel the texture of the ink on the bill. Counterfeiters often use flat printing, which lacks this texture. Run your fingers over the bill to check for raised printing.
Microprinting
Another security feature of genuine bills is microprinting. Look closely at the bill and you should see tiny letters spelling out "USA 100" on the front of the bill. Counterfeiters often cannot replicate this level of detail.
Serial Numbers
Each genuine bill has a unique serial number. Check that the serial numbers on the bill match and are evenly spaced. If the numbers are crooked or unevenly spaced, the bill may be fake.
Paper Quality
The paper used for genuine bills is made of a blend of cotton and linen, giving it a distinct texture and feel. Counterfeiters often use regular printer paper, which lacks this texture. Feel the bill to check for the right paper quality.
UV Light Test
Using a UV light test can also help identify fake bills. Genuine bills have a security thread that glows under UV light, as well as a watermark that is visible but not printed. Counterfeiters often cannot replicate these features, so if the bill does not pass the UV light test, it may be fake.
Common Methods Used by Counterfeiters
Counterfeiters use various methods to create fake bills that look similar to genuine ones. Some of the most common methods include:
- Using regular printer paper instead of the cotton-linen blend used for genuine bills.
- Printing the bill using flat printing instead of raised printing.
- Using low-quality ink that lacks the color-shifting properties of genuine bills.
- Skipping security features like the watermark, security thread, and microprinting.
Conclusion
Identifying a fake 1988 series $100 dollar bill requires a careful examination of its security features and characteristics. By following the tips outlined in this article, you should be able to identify genuine bills and avoid falling victim to counterfeit money schemes.