Security features help you to identify genuine banknotes.

Take your time to check your notes, particularly if light conditions are poor or you are handling a large number of notes. Look for the security features described in these pages. Look at the note, and feel the note. Do not rely on one single feature. If you have doubts, compare the note with one that you know to be genuine.

There are some counterfeit notes about. They are completely worthless. Don’t get caught out – protect yourself and check your banknotes when you receive them.

It is a criminal offence to keep or pass on a note that you know to be counterfeit.

If you have a note that you believe is a counterfeit you must take it to the police as soon as you can. They will provide you with a receipt and send the counterfeit to the Bank for analysis. If the note is genuine reimbursement will be made in full.

Click on the images below to view the security features of each of the denominations currently in circulation.

£5 note (Elizabeth Fry)

£10 note (Charles Darwin)

Old-style £20 note (Sir Edward Elgar)
To be withdrawn from circulation 30 June 2010

New-style £20 note (Adam Smith)

£50 note (Sir John Houblon)

 

Key Resources

Know Your Banknotes Leaflet Provides a guide to the key recognition and security features on banknotes. Download PDF (811k)