Fake ‘Movie Money’ Circulating In New York State, Know What To Look For?

With the evolution of bank and credit cards, the use of paper money appears to be diminishing. Even though the number of dollar bills that pass through our hands each year has lessened, the United States Department of Treasury estimates that there is as much as $70 million in counterfeit bills currently in circulation. That's a lot of funny money.

Counterfeit money isn't always generated by individuals with ill intent and, occasionally, this pretend money is purposely and legally made for movies. Some of this movie money have made their way into circulation in New York State. Here's what to look for.

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According to the law firm Tilem & Associates, you could spend up to 7 years in prison and have to pay around $5000 in fines if caught using counterfeit money. That includes prop money used in films. Take a look at your cash. Are you in possession of movie money?

New York State Police Troop B in Ray Brook are asking you to be aware of the money you are using. If you work in a store take an extra moment to examine the bills you are accepting. Recently several stores have accepted bills that say “For motion picture purposes” printed on the top right corner.

The first thing you might notice on these $10 bills is that Alexander Hamilton is smirking vs. his more serious appearance on a legit $10. Yes, these false funds also say "Motion Picture Purposes" in at least 2 places but, in a quick transaction, you just might not realize it.

Is this the neglect of a production crew filming in New York? Not necessarily. Did you know that you can buy prop money on Amazon?