Counterfeit $100s turn up in Coos Bay

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magnifying glass inspecting $20 dollar bills

By KCBY Web Staff

Story Published: Oct 9, 2008 at 10:09 AM PST

Click on the bills below to launch interactive guides to security features of U.S. Currency.

Interactive $5 Bill - opens a new window

Interactive $10 Bill - opens a new window

 Interactive $20 Bill - opens a new window

 Interactive $50 Bill - opens a new window

The $100 bill is slated for redesign now that the new $5 is in circulation, according to the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. | MORE

COOS BAY, Ore. -- At least five counterfeit $100 bills surfaced at Coos Bay and North Bend banks Monday, prompting police to warn merchants to be on the lookout.

“If a customer makes a purchase with a $100 bill, take all precautions available to self-detect whether or not the bill is a fake," said Coos Bay Police Detective Scott Rogers.

Coos Bay area businesses can also contact Rogers at (541) 269-1181, ext. 254 for more information related to financial crimes.

The U.S. Bureau of Printing and Engraving offers the following advice:

  • If you think you've received a counterfeit bill, do not return it to the passer.
  • Delay the person if possible, without causing harm to yourself.
  • If you live in the United States, immediately notify the local police or the U.S. Secret Service; if you live outside the U.S., notify the proper authorities.
  • Note the passer's physical characteristics, and write down the license plate number and description of the vehicle when possible.
  • Safeguard the bill and release it only to the proper authorities.

New $100 coming soon
 
The $100 bill is the last major denomination of U.S. currency to receive a security facelift. New versions of the $5, $10, $20 and $50 are now in circulation.

Money handlers can look for a security thread and watermark in the current $100 bill.

 

Scammers usually target businesses during busiest hours when they know workers will be too busy to closely check the money.

Earlier this year, police in Grants Pass discovered a couple spent $1,300 in counterfeit $100s at eight businesses. | STORY

Business also need to watch out for scams from quick change artists. Police in Albany are looking for a quick change artist who confused a clerk and made off with hundreds of dollars. | STORY

 

 

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