Counterfeit money – a direct path to prison…
According to the Deutsche Bundesbank, around 68,000 counterfeit euro banknotes were detected in 2025, which is 6.1% less than in 2024. In addition to banknotes, counterfeit coins also enter circulation, mainly with a denomination of two euros. In 2025, more than 117,000 such coins were seized. They can be identified by strong magnetism, lighter weight, bright shine, and unclear image contours.
The total damage is estimated by the Bundesbank at approximately 4 million euros, which is about 500,000 euros less than in 2024.
The bank’s management explains this decrease by a reduction in counterfeit 100 and 200 euro notes, noting that criminals are focusing their attention on banknotes of medium denomination. This is clearly demonstrated by the fact that half of all counterfeit banknotes detected in Germany are 50-euro notes. They are followed by 20-euro counterfeits, while 100-euro notes account for only 14% of the total.
In Berlin, the situation is as follows: according to data provided by the Senate Department for the Interior and Sport, 6,925 counterfeit euro banknotes were recorded in the capital last year, which is 77.1% higher than in 2024. Counterfeit 50-euro notes accounted for about 53% of the total. Second place was taken by 200-euro counterfeits, third by 20-euro notes.
A particularly strong increase was observed for 200-euro notes, with the number of counterfeits rising by 239% compared to the previous year. The number of counterfeit 5-euro (+173%) and 500-euro (+112%) notes also increased significantly. For 50-euro notes, the increase was 90%. The total damage from detected counterfeits, calculated based on the nominal value of the seized banknotes, exceeded 680,000 euros.
Experts in forensic analysis of banknotes recommend three main methods to verify authenticity:
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by touch. Genuine banknotes have a rough paper texture, while counterfeits may feel smooth;
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by holding against the light. Watermarks and the security thread become visible, and the full denomination appears when combining the front and back sides;
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by tilting. Holograms change their image, and on higher denominations the color of the number in the lower corner changes.
In addition, magnifying glasses or other optical tools can be used (microtext and fine background lines become visible). Under ultraviolet light, special fibers and inks appear on the banknote.
Anyone who discovers counterfeit money should immediately contact the police and must not use it for payments.
IMPORTANT
In Germany, handling counterfeit money is strictly regulated by the Criminal Code (StGB) and the Federal Bank Act (BbankG). The production, circulation, and possession of counterfeit money are serious criminal offenses.
Key provisions of the StGB in this context:
Section 146 (counterfeiting money): the production of counterfeit money, as well as its acquisition or intentional circulation as genuine, is punishable by imprisonment of at least one year. In cases of increased severity, such as commercial activity or involvement in organized crime, the minimum sentence increases to two years.
Section 147 (putting counterfeit money into circulation): persons who present counterfeit money as genuine face imprisonment of up to five years or a fine. Preparation for this offense is also punishable.
Section 149 (preparation of counterfeiting): actions aimed at preparing counterfeiting, including the manufacture of equipment, tools, or plates, may result in imprisonment of up to five years or a fine.
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