By LPS Bulletin

Businesses and consumers cautioned about $50 counterfeit bills showing up

Mar 26, 2019 | 11:32 AM

LETHBRIDGE —  Lethbridge Police are urging caution when accepting $50 Canadian bills as multiple fake bills have been passed in the area.
 
Since the end of February police have responded to five cases where counterfeit notes were discovered.
 
The $50 denominations are designed to resemble the “Frontier” series of bank notes. While the fake bills feel similar to a real polymer note, the holographic images in the clear window aren’t what they should be.
 
The window on a real $50 Frontier series bill contains a holographic portrait of William Lyon Mackenzie King along with the Centre Block of Parliament.

On the fakes, the building appears to be from a $5 bill and the portrait is smudged or almost blacked out entirely.

When accepting bills for payment, consumers and businesses need to check for security features by touching, tilting and turning the bill over.

– Feel the raised ink on the large “50”

– Look at the frosted maple leaf window to see it’s transparent outline

What's Happening in Lethbridge this week: November 12-17, 2024

Nov 12, 2024

What's Happening in Lethbridge this week: November 4-10, 2024

Nov 04, 2024

What's Happening in Lethbridge this week: October 28-November 3, 2024

Oct 28, 2024

– Feel the raised ink on the “Bank of Canada” and “Banque du Canada”

– Look at the numbers that match the note’s value and at the word “Canada” that feels slightly raised

– Look at the metallic portrait in the holographic strip, it matches the large portrait. Tilt to see it change colour. Flip to see it on the other side

– Look for maple leaves that border and cross into the large window

Photos of the real (TOP) and fake (BOTTOM) bills are posted above. Contact police if you have one of the counterfeit bills.