IS THAT NOTE REAL? How to Spot a Fake Rand in Greyton
T here’s nothing quite like the sinking feeling of discovering the crisp R100 note in your pocket… is fake. Sadly, a few counterfeit banknotes have been spotted around the village and pos- sibly more as we enter the busy festive season, leaving a trail of confusion, frus- tration, and empty wallets in their wake. So how can you tell if the money in your hand is the real deal—or a crafty im- poster? We’ve gathered a few tips and tricks to help you become a note-detect- ing sleuth right here in Greyton. THE CLUES ARE IN THE DETAILS South African banknotes are packed with clever security features. Here’s what to check: 1. The Braille Dots Each genuine note has a raised tactile feature—often mis- taken for braille—on the left and right sides. Rub your finger across the edge of the note. If it’s smooth or flat, raise an eyebrow. 2. The Colour-Shifting Security Thread Look for the metallic thread running ver-
tically through the centre of the note. Tilt the note in the light. It should change colour from green to gold. No shimmer? That’s a red flag.
note that looks like it was printed yesterday? Be suspicious. WHAT SHOULD YOU DO? If you think you’ve received a fake note:
3. The Watermark Hold the note up to the light. You should see a faint portrait of Nelson Mandela appear like a ghostly guide from the ether. If you can see it without holding it up, it’s likely been printed on the surface, not embedded into the paper. 4. Size Matters Compare your suspect note to one you trust. Real notes are precisely cut. If your note is too long, too short, or just “a bit off,” it’s probably a fake. This is often the giveaway that coun- terfeiters overlook. A true rookie mistake! 5. The Print Quality Genuine notes may show signs of wear and tear, but the print- ing is never patchy or inconsistent. Watch out for notes that are too clean, too shiny, or too new-looking for their age. A 2019
• Don’t try to use it. You could land yourself in legal
hot water. • Do not take it to the bank expecting an exchange —sadly, banks cannot re- imburse counterfeit currency. • Report it to your bank or the South African Police Service (SAPS). • Notify the business or person who gave it to you, if possible. It’s often passed unknowingly and can help prevent further spread. FINAL WORD No one wants to lose money - especially not to a scam note that looks the part but holds no value. So, next time you accept cash at the market, shop, or from a neighbour, take a quick moment to give it the once-over.
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THE GREYTON POST
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026
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