Identifying counterfeit currency is a critical concern for businesses such as merchants, grocery stores, and casinos that handle significant amounts of cash. Given that banks do not reimburse depositors for counterfeit money, these establishments must verify the legitimacy of the currency they accept. Criminals and counterfeiters are quick to target businesses with lax testing procedures, passing substantial amounts of counterfeit bills before detection.
To address this issue, innovations like the counterfeit banknote detection pen have been introduced. This tool provides a swift and straightforward means of checking the authenticity of specific types of banknotes, such as US currency. However, questions arise regarding the reliability and effectiveness of this method in the present day.
Keep reading to find out how a counterfeit detector pen works.
Table of contents
What Is A Counterfeit Detector Pen?
A counterfeit detector pen is constructed like a marker, resembling a felt-tip pen such as the “Flair.” It consists of a plastic tube equipped with a polyester reservoir, akin to a cigarette filter, infused with a solution of solvent and iodine. A nib, the writing tip, is inserted into the reservoir to absorb and dispense the solution to the tip’s end, where it comes into contact with the writing surface.
The tips of these markers are typically constructed from molded porous polyester, although extruded polyester or acrylic fiber can also be used. Fiber tips are often more resilient and provide a more uniform liquid distribution. High-quality counterfeit detector pens are manufactured with precisely fitting plastic components to prevent air leaks. Air leaks can lead to marker drying out or, more critically, result in inaccurate test outcomes.
READ ALSO: What is the MoneyGram Sending Limit? | Procedures & Processes
How To Check Counterfeit Money With Pen?
When you take a counterfeit detector pen and make a mark on regular paper, it will turn brown or black, indicating that there is starch in the paper. Of course, US money is NOT printed on regular paper, but rather on Cranes linen and cotton paper. There is zero starch content in currency paper, so the iodine will not react. When you make a mark on genuine money with the pen, the mark will remain pale yellow.
A counterfeit detector pen is a chemical test that distinguishes the type of paper used for printing money. Genuine US currency is printed on Cranes currency paper stock. Cranes is a company based in New England, and they have produced US currency paper for over 250 years. Cranes paper is made entirely of linen and cotton and is therefore quite durable and resistant to tearing.
Virtually, all common paper is made with refined wood pulp combined with mineral pigments and starch. The counterfeit detector pen is an iodine solution delivery system. You may remember from chemistry class that iodine reacts with starch by turning the starch brown or black.
READ ALSO: How to Become a Dog Breeder | Salary, Career Path
Are There Alternatives To Counterfeit Detector Pen?
Certainly. Acquiring knowledge about the design and security features of high-denomination bills is an effective method for detecting counterfeit money. Additionally, investing in cost-effective technological solutions not only minimizes the influx of counterfeit bills at your cash register but also reduces the likelihood of employee errors.
Among the most effective anti-counterfeit devices available is an Ultraviolet (UV) counterfeit detection scanner. Ideal for use in well-lit point-of-sale settings, this UV detector identifies the ultraviolet security features commonly present in various currencies. It requires minimal training, as the process involves simply placing the bill in the detector, which promptly identifies counterfeit currency without necessitating a detailed examination by an employee.
SEE ALSO: How to Qualify for Alimony These Days? Full Guide
Are Counterfeit Detector Pens A Reliable Technology?
A banknote incorporates a variety of security features, and although a counterfeit detector pen examines only one aspect, counterfeiters may exploit other methods. However, it is crucial not to dismiss the effectiveness of counterfeit detection entirely.
To safeguard a collection from counterfeits, it is recommended to utilize multiple counterfeit detection methods to verify the authenticity of banknotes. Employing a combination of UV light testing, counterfeit detection pen evaluation, and thorough examination of other inherent security features should offer a reasonable level of confidence in distinguishing between genuine and counterfeit banknotes.
FAQs On How Does A Counterfeit Detector Pen Work
A counterfeit detector pen is a tool designed to identify counterfeit currency by testing the type of paper used for printing money.
The pen contains an iodine solution. When applied to genuine currency paper, which typically lacks starch, the mark remains pale yellow. However, on regular paper containing starch, often found in counterfeit bills, the mark turns brown or black.
While the pen is effective, it only tests for the presence of starch in the paper. To enhance counterfeit detection, using multiple methods like UV light testing and examining other security features is advisable.
Counterfeit detector pens are primarily designed for currencies printed on paper containing starch. However, their effectiveness may vary, and it’s recommended to use additional detection methods for comprehensive security.
Conclusion
Counterfeit currency detectors come in diverse styles and utilize varying detection methods to protect your business from fraud. You can select the ideal design for your business depending on the volume of cash you need to examine and how frequently you intend to use the device.
References
- drimark.com – Everything You Need to Know About Counterfeit Detector Pens
- banknoteworld.com – How do Counterfeit Pen Tests Work?
- wisegeek.com – How does a Counterfeit Money Pen Work?
We Also Recommend
