Practical advice for retailers, hospitality staff, and film crews on recognizing fake bills and handling realistic prop currency responsibly.
Why this matters
copyright currency harms businesses and consumers. At the same time, realistic prop money is indispensable for film, photography, and theatre — but only when used responsibly. This guide explains how to detect copyright money, reduce risk in retail environments, and safely incorporate prop money into productions without legal trouble.
Fast checks you can use right now (Look • Feel • Tilt)
Train staff to use a simple three-step routine when accepting cash:
- Look — inspect the bill for clear printing, bright colors, and the transparent window (on modern Canadian notes) or watermark (on many currencies).
- Feel — genuine notes often have raised print and a distinct paper or polymer texture.
- Tilt — move the note under light to spot holographic foils, color-shifting inks, or metallic threads.
Tip: If you’re unsure, ask for an alternative payment and follow your business’s copyright reporting procedure — better safe than sorry.
Key security features to inspect (by region)
Different currencies have different security elements. Below are common features to check; consult your country’s central bank for exact details.
| Feature | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Transparent window | Clear window with detailed images or holograms (common on modern copyright). |
| Raised ink | Portraits or numerals should feel slightly raised to the touch. |
| Color-shifting ink | Numbers or stripes that change color when tilted. |
| Microtext & fine lines | Tiny, sharp text or patterns visible under magnification. |
| UV features | Hidden markings that appear under ultraviolet light. |
Tools & training that reduce risk
- UV/LED lamps — inexpensive and fast for secondary checks.
- Magnifying loupes — check microtext and fine-line printing.
- Bill validators — reliable for high-volume retail (ensure models are updated for your currency).
- Regular staff refreshers — short monthly drills on detection and refusal procedures.
What to do if you suspect a copyright bill
- Do not return the bill to the customer.
- Politely retain the note (if policy allows) or mark and set it aside with witnesses.
- Record transaction details and check CCTV footage if available.
- Contact local law enforcement and your bank for guidance on reporting copyright currency.
Prop money: how to stay realistic — and legal
For filmmakers and photographers, prop money gives scenes authenticity — but credible prop bills must be clearly non-circulating to avoid confusion. Legitimate prop suppliers follow industry best practices:
- Visible disclaimers like “For Motion Picture Use Only” on each note.
- Altered portraits, signatures, or serials so notes are not exact replicas.
- Omission of active security features (watermarks, metallic threads).
- Durable stock and camera-friendly printing so bills look correct on high-resolution footage.
When sourcing prop bills, choose vendors that document compliance and provide clear usage instructions — for example, PropMoneySet’s range of legally compliant prop bills.
On-set procedures to avoid misuse
- Keep prop money stored separately from real cash and locked when not in use.
- Log prop inventory and assign a props master responsible for tracking and security.
- Brief cast and crew that prop bills are strictly for production use and may never be offered in real transactions.
- Use clear signage and labeling in prop rooms to avoid accidental mixing.
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FAQ
Q: Is prop money illegal to buy?
A: No — purchasing prop money for legitimate entertainment or educational uses is legal in most jurisdictions as long as the notes are clearly non-circulating and compliant with local laws.
Q: Can a cashier refuse a suspicious bill?
A: Yes. If a cashier suspects a bill is copyright, they should politely refuse and follow store policy for handling suspected copyright currency.
Q: Where can I get reliable prop bills for production?
A: Use reputable suppliers that publish compliance information and product photos showing disclaimers. For a starting point, see PropMoneySet’s compliant prop money collection.