Treasury Scores A Perfect Ten

NEW YORK -- The U.S. government unveiled a new, more secure design for the $10 note that will enter circulation in the early 2006.

Highlighted by images of the Statue of Liberty’s torch and the words "We the People" from the U.S. Constitution, the newly designed bill incorporates easy-to-use security features for people to check their money and subtle background colors in orange, yellow and red.

"We expect to update currency every seven to 10 years, so that we may continue to stay ahead of counterfeiters," said Treasury Secretary John W. Snow. "The enhanced security features built into this new $10 note design will help maintain global confidence in our currency going forward."

The $10 note is the third denomination in the new design series and the $100 note redesign is next on the list. Newly designed $20 and $50 notes are already in circulation.

The new $10 note incorporates security features to combat counterfeiting, including three that are easy to use by cash handlers and consumers -- the color-shifting ink, watermark and security thread.

Color-shifting ink -- While tilting the ten, the numeral “10” in the lower right-hand corner on the face of the note changes color from copper to green.

The watermark -- Hold the note up to the light to see if a faint image of Alexander Hamilton appears to the right of his large portrait. It should be visible from both sides of the note.

Security thread -- Hold the note up to the light and make sure there’s a small strip that repeats "USA TEN" in tiny print. It should run vertically to the right of the portrait.

"Advancements in technology pose evolving threats to our currency," said Thomas Ferguson, director of Bureau of Engraving and Printing. "This new $10 design is safer because it is easier for cash handlers and consumers to check, smarter, because it stays ahead of counterfeiters and more secure, to protect the integrity of U.S. currency."
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