2013 $100 Bills- Security Thread Signs Of A Big Payday

The 2013-series $100 (the “New Benjamin”) introduced advanced anti-counterfeiting tech that also helps collectors spot valuable anomalies.

If you can quickly verify the note’s security thread, 3-D blue ribbon, and other authenticity markers—and then screen for star notes, fancy serial numbers, and printing errors—you might turn an ordinary bill into a big payday.

Security Thread — Your First And Fastest Check

Hold the bill up to light. A thin embedded security thread runs vertically to the left of Franklin’s portrait.

It shows repeating microtext (USA and denomination) that is inside the paper, not printed on top. Under UV light, that thread glows in a distinctive color specific to the $100 denomination.

If the strip is missing, crudely printed on, or the glow is off, you either have a counterfeit—or, in very rare cases, a dramatic production error that can attract collectors.

3-D Blue Ribbon — Woven, Not Printed

The bold blue security ribbon in the center is woven into the paper, not surface-printed.

Tilt the note and watch the tiny bells and “100s” move—side-to-side when you tilt forward/back, and up-and-down when you tilt side-to-side.

Counterfeits often show flat, printed imitation. A mis-positioned or oddly woven ribbon can indicate a legitimate printing error with premium potential.

Other Authentication Clues

• Bell In The Inkwell: The copper-colored inkwell on the front contains a color-shifting bell that transforms as you tilt the note.
• Color-Shifting 100: The large 100 in the lower-right corner on the front shifts from copper to green.
• Watermark: A faint Benjamin Franklin watermark is visible from both sides when held to light.
• Raised Printing & Microprinting: Genuine notes have textured ink and crisp microtext (for example around Franklin’s collar and the borders).

What Actually Makes A 2013 $100 Worth More

• Star Notes: Replacement notes marked with a ★ can have lower print runs or special appeal, especially in uncirculated condition.
• Fancy Serial Numbers: Collectors pay premiums for low serials (000000xx), ladders (12345678), repeaters (ABABABAB), radars (ABCCBA), and meaningful dates.
• Major Printing Errors: Genuine misalignments, missing or doubled elements, severe ink smears, or marginal miscuts are rare—and can sell for multiples of face value when authenticated.
• Condition: Crisp, uncirculated notes bring the strongest prices. Store promising bills flat in a sleeve; avoid folds, moisture, and rubber bands.

Quick Reference — Spotting Value & Verifying Security

Feature/Factor	What To Look For	Why It Matters	Practical Check
Security Thread	Embedded strip left of Franklin; microtext inside paper; correct UV glow	Core authenticity test; anomalies can mean counterfeit or rare error	Hold to light; test under UV
3-D Blue Ribbon	Woven ribbon with moving bells/“100s”	Hard to fake; mis-weave can be collectible	Tilt both directions; confirm it’s in the paper
Bell In Inkwell	Bell appears/disappears; color shift	Verifies optical features	Tilt under bright light
Watermark	Franklin visible from both sides	Standard counterfeit check	Hold to light
Star Note	Serial ending in ★	Collectible replacement note	Check serial block/series
Fancy Serial	Ladders, radars, repeaters, low numbers, birthdays	Adds collector demand	Scan for patterns
Major Error	Off-center print, missing elements, big ink smear, miscut	Can bring strong premiums	Authenticate; consider grading
Condition	Crisp, no folds, sharp corners	Higher grade = higher value	Store in sleeve, handle minimally

How To Check Your Bills Step-By-Step

• Authenticate First: Verify the security thread, 3-D blue ribbon, watermark, and color-shifting elements.
• Scan The Serial: Look for the ★ and patterns (ladders, repeaters, radars, birthdays, low numbers).
• Inspect For Errors: Check margins, print alignment, and ink areas for obvious production flaws.
• Protect Condition: If promising, don’t fold it—use a currency sleeve.
• Get An Opinion: For high-value finds, consider third-party grading to confirm authenticity and maximize resale.

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