Distinguishing the fake $50 notes being passed around in Canberra

The Australian Capital Territory Police have warned that there are counterfeit $50 notes being passed around Canberra. The fake banknotes are “quite distinctive” from the authentic ones.

According to ACT Policing Detective Acting Superintendent Jason Kennedy, the fake $50 notes appear to be training banknotes from overseas. It’s easy to detect the fakes from the real ones by look and by touch. Whereas authentic $50s are made from plastic polymer, the fake ones are printed on paper.

There are also Chinese characters on three lines superimposed on them where the clear security window feature should be. The writing, according to Yahoo News, translates to say that the note is a “sample” or for “practise.”

There are two sets of broken black lines seen through the 50 in the top right corner as well. Additionally, they don’t have serial numbers or other security features.

“If you don’t think a banknote you’ve been presented with is genuine, then don’t accept it,” Kennedy said. “These notes in particular are easily detected as being fake from the briefest inspection, if you take the time to look at them.

“If you do receive what you believe to be a counterfeit banknote, try to handle it as little as possible to preserve evidence,” he added. “Note the description of the person who gave it to you and contact police on 131 444.

Unlawfully possessing or using counterfeit currency is an offence punishable by up to 12 years in prison.