FUNNY MONEY

Police are finding little humor in the funny money that is being passed around Cynthiana.

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Cpl. Walter Tapp of the Cynthiana Police Department said Tuesday that over the last two weeks, counterfeit money has been found at banks, stores and even a beauty salon.

So far denominations of $5, $10 and $20 bills have been found.

“It’s likely the same counterfeiter,” Tapp said, adding that he believes they are from the surrounding area.

Tapp said the bills look good, but they don’t feel exactly right.

Tapp said the forgeries are very well done.

“Some of them have a watermark, just not the right one,” he said.

First, he said, look for the security strip. If you are still in doubt, go to the bank and have them check it.

The $5 bills that have been turned in feel the closest to a real bill. The $20s have more of a papery feel.

He said a real bill is made of 20 percent linen and 75 percent cotton with red and blue fibers.

The counterfeit bills also have the right color, he said.

In a true 1990s style (1990-1999) the security thread should be to the left of the portrait, with the exception of the 1996 bills where on the $100s, $20s, $5s, the thread is to the right and the $50s and $10 are to the left.

In 2004, the $50s, $10, and $5s have the thread to the right with the $20s to the left.

He cautioned patrons to check their money’s authenticity before they leave a cashier.

“Have them mark the bill to make sure it’s good,” Tapp said. “Once you leave the counter, it’s your responsibility.”

He said if you pass the counterfeit bill at the bank, you will not be credited with the money once it is seized. If it turns out the money is later determined to be a true bill, the patron’s account will be credited.

“Just be aware of your money for awhile; someone’s passing funny money and it could end up costing you,” he said.