How to detect counterfeit money

Unfortunately, there is a lot of counterfeit money in China. Foreigners must beware. The 100, 50, and 20 RMB banknotes are most commonly counterfeited. Banks and ATMs are the usual places for foreigners to get 100 RMB notes, and these usually don't give counterfeit money. 50 and 20 RMB notes are usually given in change. Banks have a great poster on display about how to identify legitimate money.

How to detect a legitimate banknote:

• Look at the number printed in the lower left corner. It should "shimmer" and change color between green and black when you tilt the banknote back and forth. This is the best test - it is very difficult for counterfeiters to reproduce this.
• Hold the note up to the light. On the left side, you should see a watermark of Chairman Mao. Be careful, some counterfeit notes have a watermark.
• Below the watermark of Chairman Mao, there is half a circle and half a square. When holding the banknote up to the light, you should see a full square inside a full circle.
• There is a vertical strip going through the middle of the banknote. You should see "100 RMB" printed very small, again and again.
• The paper should feel natural, and not too stiff.
• Above the large number in the middle, there is a secret number that is only visible under ultraviolet light. You can buy an ultraviolet currency detector at Little Goods Street Market, or other places, for around ¥10. Counterfeiters have discovered how to make a fake ultraviolet mark. However, it is not clear. Make sure that the invisible number is crisp and sharp, otherwise return the bill.
• For only the 100 RMB note:
  • Rub Chairman Mao's ear. The raised printing should feel slightly bumpy.
  • Rub Chairman Mao's face against a piece of paper. A little bit of red ink should smear onto the paper.
• Click here for more methods to spot a counterfeit.

If the banknote fails one of these tests, it is probably counterfeit. Do not make trouble, simply return it to the person who gave it to you, and ask for a replacement. Taxis and small shops are notorious for passing counterfeit currency, so be careful. It is not considered offensive to check the currency before accepting it. Shopkeepers will certainly check your 100 RMB notes!

For more information, please visit the counterfeit detection web page.