Status report on euro counterfeits recovered in the second half of 2015

Banknotes

In the second half of 2015 a total of 1,046 counterfeit euro banknotes were recovered in Slovakia. This number was approximately one-third lower compared to the same period of the previous year.

Half-yearly trend in the number of counterfeit euro banknotes recovered

The most numerous denominations of the counterfeit banknotes were €50 (34.8% of the total) and €20 (28.1%).

Number of recovered counterfeit banknotes by denomination

While the quality of counterfeit banknotes is generally high, the general public can detect them, without any special technical equipment, by staying vigilant when receiving banknotes.

Genuine banknotes can be easily recognised using the “feel, look and tilt” method described on the euro pages of the ECB’s website (www.ecb.int) and the websites of the Eurosystem national central banks.

Coins

In the second half of 2015 a total of 854 counterfeit euro coins were recovered in Slovakia – approximately 30% down on the figure for the second half of 2014. Counterfeit €2 coins accounted for 66.9% of the total.

Half-yearly trend in the number of counterfeit euro coins recovered

The technical quality of coin counterfeits is mostly high or very high, and it may therefore be quite difficult for the public to detect them, especially if insufficient attention is paid to coins when received.

Number of recovered counterfeit coins by denomination

The easiest way to detect a counterfeit coin is with a simple magnet. Genuine €1 and €2 coins have a magnetic core and therefore by applying a magnet to the core it is possible to compare the magnetism of a suspect coin with that of a genuine coin. It is also important to observe the general appearance and colour of a suspect coin. In the case of a suspect €2 coin, it is also recommended to check the edge lettering.

More detailed information about the common and national sides of euro circulation coins can be found on the websites of the ECB and Národná banka Slovenska.