Big Dollar Bill Shake-Up Coming in 2025 – Here’s What You Need to Know and Why It Matters

Counterfeiting currency has evolved into a battle of wits between governments and criminals. While governments strive to secure their currency, counterfeiters exploit technological advances to deceive unsuspecting institutions and businesses. The U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) works tirelessly to enhance the security of U.S. dollar designs and educate consumers and businesses to identify counterfeit bills effectively.

The Evolution of U.S. Currency

The U.S. dollar currently circulates in seven denominations: $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100. While older denominations remain legal tender, they are rare and largely found in collections. Unlike these historic notes, the actively circulating bills undergo periodic redesigns to bolster security.

Currency redesigns focus on anti-counterfeiting measures rather than aesthetic changes. These updates are far from simple, requiring years of research and development. For example, the most recent redesign—the $100 note—debuted in 2013 after over a decade of preparation. Upcoming redesigns for the $10, $50, $20, $5, and $100 bills are scheduled between 2026 and 2034.

These staggered releases allow thorough testing and gradual implementation to address risks and enhance counterfeit deterrence. Despite these efforts, no bill can be entirely counterfeit-proof. The Advanced Counterfeit Deterrence (ACD) Steering Committee, comprising stakeholders from the BEP, Federal Reserve, and U.S. Secret Service, continuously works to make counterfeiting increasingly difficult.

The Importance of Education and Rigorous Testing

Even with advanced security features, counterfeit bills persist. An estimated $70 million in fake currency circulates, though some experts suggest the figure could be as high as $200 million due to the U.S. dollar’s global use. To counter this, education plays a pivotal role. The BEP emphasizes awareness for businesses and consumers, ensuring that security features are easily recognizable. Once a redesign is complete, the government undertakes extensive testing to optimize production and guarantee quality. This process includes:

• Procuring secure materials to prevent counterfeiter access.
• Conducting rigorous testing to meet manufacturing standards.
• Gradual public release to ensure seamless integration into circulation.

How to Detect Counterfeit Bills

Spotting counterfeit bills requires vigilance and a keen eye for details. Key methods include:

• Color-shifting ink: Tilt the bill to see the ink change colors.
• Raised printing: Feel the texture of the bill, especially on portraits.
• Blurry borders or text: counterfeit bills often lack sharp details.
• Red and blue threads: Genuine bills have embedded threads, not printed lines.
• Watermark: Hold the bill to the light to see the watermark matching the portrait.
• Security thread: Look for a thread running vertically through the bill.
• Security ribbon (on new $100 notes): Check for 3D images when tilted.

A Continuous Effort

While counterfeiting remains a challenge, the BEP’s relentless efforts in redesigning currency, educating the public, and employing advanced technologies aim to minimize the threat. By staying informed and vigilant, consumers and businesses can contribute to the fight against counterfeit currency, safeguarding the integrity of the U.S. dollar.