Counterfeit twenty-pound notes can deceive even the most cautious individuals and businesses. With advanced security features on genuine Bank of England GBP 20 notes, identifying fakes is easier if you know what to look for.
This guide explains the key design and security features of authentic GBP 20 notes, how to differentiate them from fake twenty-pound notes, and what to do if you encounter a fake. Protect yourself from financial loss with these expert tips.
Table of contents
What is a Fake 20 Pound Note?
A fake twenty-pound note is a counterfeit version of the genuine Bank of England 20-pound note. They are designed to look so similar to the real 20-pound notes that one may accept them as real currency.
The fake 20-pound note has flat printing that feels smooth to the touch. It may have a limp texture and feel waxy. Besides, Counterfeit pound notes also exhibit poorly replicated holograms, microprints, and watermarks.
Also Read: Check out this blog to know what to do with counterfeit currency if you suspect fake banknotes.
Key Features of a 20 Pound Note
A real 20-pound note is approximately 139mm x 73mm. It has various design and security features on the front and back sides of the note that help you confirm that the banknotes are genuine. Let’s explore all these features in detail-
Design Features of the GBP 20 Note
The GBP 20 note, measuring approximately 139mm x 73mm, features unique design elements inspired by the artist JMW Turner. These elements not only enhance its aesthetic but also aid in identification:
- Raised Dots: Three raised dots in the top left-hand corner assist blind or partially sighted individuals in identifying the note’s value.
- Unique Serial Numbers: A multi-colored horizontal serial number increases in height from left to right, while a vertical serial number maintains consistent height and color.
- Copyright Symbol: The international copyright symbol appears on both sides of the note.
- JMW Turner Elements: Features “The Fighting Temeraire” painting, a quote (“Light is therefore colour”), and Turner’s signature from his will.
Security Features of the GBP 20 Note
The Bank of England integrates advanced security features into the GBP 20 note to deter counterfeiting. Check these elements to verify authenticity:
- Hologram: Tilt the note to see the hologram change from “Twenty” to “Pounds.”
- See-Through Window: The main window displays a metallic image that appears gold and blue on the front and silver on the back. The monarch’s portrait and “GBP 20 Bank of England” text appear within.
- UV Light Test: Under ultraviolet light, the number “20” glows bright red and green against a dull background.
- Foil Patches: A silver foil patch on the front features a 3D coronation crown, while a purple foil patch on the back contains the letter “T.”
- Microprinting: Tiny text below the monarch’s portrait is visible under a magnifying glass, indicating the note’s value.
By understanding these features, you can also easily spot a fake 10-pound note or a counterfeit 50-pound note.
Difference Between a Real and Fake 20-Pound Note
Though fake 20-pound notes are rare due to advanced security measures, it is important to learn to be able to identify them. Checking the key security features can help avoid being deceived by fake currency. Here are the differences to look for after understanding all the important features of a real 20-pound note:
| Features | Genuine 20-pound Notes | Fake Twenty-pound Notes |
| Hologram | They lack clarity. You will notice blurry edges or poor-quality printing. | It may not change or be poorly replicated. |
| See-through Window | The metallic image is gold and blue on the front, and silver on the back. | It may have incorrect colours and may lack clarity. |
| Raised Print | Raised printing on the ‘Bank of England’ text and the bottom right corner. You may also see three raised dots in the top left-hand corner. | Fake 20-pound notes have flat printing and feel smooth to the touch. |
| Colour & Clarity | They have sharp, clear printed lines. No smudges or blurs are visible on checking with a magnifying glass. | They have missing or poorly reproduced features that may have patches, but missing crowns and letters. |
| UV Light Test | Number ‘20’ appears bright red and green under UV light on the front of the note. | Number ‘20’ appears dim or incorrect fluorescence under UV light. |
| Foil Patches | A silver foil patch is seen with a 3D crown image on the front and a round purple foil patch on the back contains the letter ‘T’. | A silver foil patch is seen with a 3D crown image on the front, and a round purple foil patch on the back contains the letter ‘T’. |
| Microprinting | The value of the note is written in small letters and numbers below the monarch’s portrait, visible under a magnifying glass. | They will lack microprint. If printed, they have poor printing quality with smudgy and blurry text. |
Also Read: Check out this blog to know all about stable currencies with anti-counterfeiting measures that make them difficult to fake and replicate.
What to do with Fake Twenty-Pound Note?
Discovering a counterfeit £20 note can be frustrating, but taking the right steps is essential to avoid legal or financial issues. Follow these guidelines to handle fake currency responsibly:
- Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the latest security features to prevent future incidents.
- Do Not Use It: Attempting to spend counterfeit notes is illegal and can lead to legal consequences.
- Report to Authorities: Contact your local bank or police to report the counterfeit note. Provide details about where you received it.
- Secure the Note: Place the note in an envelope to avoid further handling, as it may be evidence for authorities.
This was all about the fake twenty-pound note. To know more about currencies, forex, education loans, the best bank accounts for students banking experience for global students or international money transfers, reach out to our experts at 1800572126 to help ease your study abroad experience.
FAQs
A fake twenty-pound note is a counterfeit version of a legitimate banknote, designed to deceive individuals and businesses.
Check security features on a 20-pound note, like the hologram, see-through window, and UV light response. Fake notes often lack clarity, have smooth textures, or show poorly replicated elements.
The hologram changes from ‘Twenty’ to ‘Pounds’ when tilted, and the see-through window has a metallic image that is gold and blue on the front and silver on the back.
Under UV light, the number “20” appears in bright red and green on the front of the note against a duller background.
If you discover a counterfeit note after a transaction, report it to your bank or local police.
Counterfeit 20-pound notes are rare due to advanced security measures, but they still exist. Staying vigilant by checking key features can protect you.
Yes, many security features, such as holograms and see-through windows, are similar across Bank of England notes, though specific designs vary.
