How to tell if $20 is real?

To tell if a $20 bill is real, check for several key security features embedded in the currency, which are difficult for counterfeiters to replicate.

How to Spot a Genuine $20 Bill

Verifying the authenticity of a $20 bill involves examining multiple security elements. These features are designed to be easily recognizable by the public, making it simpler to distinguish real currency from fakes. By knowing what to look for, you can quickly determine if a bill is genuine.

Key Security Features to Check

Genuine $20 bills incorporate advanced security measures. Here's a breakdown of what to examine:

• Security Thread:

  • Hold the bill up to a light source. You should see an embedded security thread running vertically to the left of President Jackson's portrait.
  • This thread is imprinted with "USA TWENTY" and a small flag.
  • Crucially, when illuminated by ultraviolet (UV) light, this thread glows a distinct green color.

• Portrait Watermark:

  • When you hold the bill to light, a faint, ghostly image of President Andrew Jackson's portrait becomes visible in the blank space to the right of the main portrait.
  • This watermark is visible from both sides of the note and should appear identical on both sides.

• Color-Shifting Ink:

  • Examine the numeral "20" located in the lower right corner on the front of the bill.
  • When you tilt the bill, the color of this numeral should shift from copper to green. This optical variable ink is a strong indicator of authenticity.

• Raised Printing (Tactile Feel):

  • Real currency has a distinctive texture due to the intaglio printing process, which leaves ink slightly raised on the paper.
  • Gently run your finger across President Jackson's portrait or the words "THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA." You should feel a slight roughness or raised texture. Counterfeit bills often feel flat.

• Microprinting:

  • Use a magnifying glass to inspect various areas of the bill.
  • On the $20 bill, you can find microprinting in several places, such as:
    • "USA20" printed repeatedly within the border of the portrait.
    • "THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" printed on President Jackson's coat collar.
    • "TWENTY USA" printed along the security thread.
  • These tiny words should appear sharp and clear, not blurred or smudged.

• Federal Reserve and Serial Numbers:

  • Each $20 bill has two distinct serial numbers, located on the front of the bill, one to the left of the portrait and one to the right.
  • These numbers should match exactly.
  • The numbers and letters should be evenly spaced and perfectly aligned. Counterfeit bills often have unevenly spaced or poorly aligned serial numbers.
  • A Federal Reserve indicator (a letter within a circle) is also present to the left of the portrait, identifying the issuing Federal Reserve Bank.

• Red and Blue Fibers:

  • Genuine U.S. currency paper is embedded with tiny red and blue security fibers throughout the note.
  • These fibers are randomly distributed and should be visible upon close inspection, not just printed on the surface.

Quick Check Guide for a $20 Bill

To quickly assess if a $20 bill is real, follow these simple steps:

Feature	What to Look For
Tilt It	The copper "20" in the lower right corner shifts to green.
Hold to Light	President Jackson watermark visible from both sides.
Hold to Light	Security thread visible, running vertically to the left.
Use UV Light	Security thread glows green.
Touch It	Raised printing on the portrait and lettering feels rough.
Magnify It	Clear microprinting in various areas (e.g., "USA20").
Check Fibers	Red and blue fibers embedded in the paper, not printed on.
Check Serial Numbers	Two identical, evenly spaced, and aligned serial numbers.

For more detailed information on currency security features, you can visit the U.S. Currency Education Program.

What to Do If You Suspect Counterfeit

If you encounter a bill that you suspect is counterfeit, do not accept it. Do not return it to the person who gave it to you. Instead:

1. Observe: Note the features of the person who gave you the bill and any companions, as well as their vehicle if applicable.
2. Contact Authorities: Immediately notify your local police department or the U.S. Secret Service.
3. Handle Minimally: Place the suspected counterfeit bill in a protective covering, such as an envelope, to prevent further handling and preserve potential evidence.
4. Provide Information: Write down any information you remember about how you received the bill.

By regularly checking for these security features, you can help protect yourself and others from counterfeit currency.