How to Check a 20 Dollar Bill
Checking a 20 dollar bill is an essential skill for anyone who handles cash regularly. Whether you’re a cashier, a traveler, or just someone who wants to ensure the authenticity of their currency, knowing how to identify a genuine 20 dollar bill is crucial. In this article, we will guide you through the process of checking a 20 dollar bill, highlighting the key features that distinguish a real bill from a counterfeit one.
Understanding the Design
The first step in checking a 20 dollar bill is to familiarize yourself with its design. The front of the bill features a portrait of Andrew Jackson, the 7th President of the United States. Look for the intricate details, such as the feathers in his hat, the border patterns, and the images of the White House and the Great Seal of the United States. These elements are carefully crafted and difficult to replicate in a counterfeit bill.
Inspecting the Serial Numbers
Next, examine the serial numbers on the bill. Genuine 20 dollar bills have a series of numbers that are printed in various fonts and colors. Counterfeit bills often have serial numbers that are inconsistent or look too uniform. Additionally, the serial numbers on a genuine bill should be microprinted, meaning they are visible under a magnifying glass. If the microprint is missing or unclear, the bill may be counterfeit.
Checking the Watermark
The watermark is another crucial feature to inspect. On a genuine 20 dollar bill, the watermark will be visible when the bill is held up to the light. The watermark should feature a portrait of Andrew Jackson, similar to the image on the front of the bill. If the watermark is faint, missing, or does not match the image on the front, the bill may be counterfeit.
Feel the Raised Printing
Genuine 20 dollar bills have raised printing, which can be felt when running your fingers over the bill. This raised printing is particularly noticeable on the portrait of Andrew Jackson and the numeral “20” in the corner. Counterfeit bills often lack this raised printing or have a different texture.
Looking for Security Threads
Security threads are a unique feature of genuine 20 dollar bills. Look for a thin, metallic thread that runs vertically through the bill. When held up to the light, the thread should display a series of numbers or letters. This security thread is difficult to replicate in a counterfeit bill.
Using UV Light
Lastly, you can use ultraviolet (UV) light to check for the presence of a security strip. Genuine 20 dollar bills have a security strip that glows under UV light. The strip should be located on the right side of the bill, near the portrait of Andrew Jackson. If the strip is not visible or does not glow, the bill may be counterfeit.
Conclusion
Checking a 20 dollar bill is an important skill that can help you identify genuine currency and avoid potential fraud. By following these steps and being aware of the key features of a genuine 20 dollar bill, you can confidently handle cash and protect yourself from counterfeiters. Remember to inspect the design, serial numbers, watermark, raised printing, security threads, and UV light features to ensure the authenticity of your currency.
