What is the most commonly faked bill?

The Most Faked Bills in the U.S.

When it comes to counterfeit currency, not all bills are created equal—especially in the eyes of forgers. In the United States, where cash still plays a significant role in everyday transactions, counterfeiters tend to focus on specific denominations. Surprisingly, about 60% of all counterfeit bills detected in the world are found within U.S. borders, according to the U.S. Department of Treasury.

So which bills are most often copied? The answer lies in a mix of opportunity and practicality. The $20 and $100 bills top the list of most counterfeited denominations. The $100 bill, with its high value, is an obvious target—passing a fake can yield significant returns for criminals if undetected. However, its intricate security features, like the blue security strip and watermark, make it harder to duplicate convincingly.

The $20 bill, on the other hand, strikes a balance between value and usability. It’s high enough to be worth the risk but common enough in circulation that a counterfeit doesn’t immediately raise suspicion. This makes it a favorite among those trying to slip fake notes into everyday commerce—think restaurants, gas stations, and small retail stores.

Despite advances in anti-counterfeiting technology—such as color-shifting ink, microprinting, and security threads—there are still determined efforts to replicate U.S. currency. The Secret Service reports that while most counterfeit bills are detected before doing serious damage, public awareness remains crucial. Simple habits—like checking the watermark, feeling the texture of the paper, or tilting the bill to see color-changing elements—can go a long way in stopping fakes in their tracks.

In a world increasingly reliant on digital payments, cash still holds its ground—and so does the shadowy trade of counterfeiting. But knowing which bills are most at risk helps everyone stay one step ahead.