Security features in currency notes act as a safeguard to minimise the risk of counterfeiting. It is important for the public to be aware of some of these security features and be able to distinguish between genuine and counterfeit notes which are completely worthless.
The security features incorporated in the notes provide for visible identification and authentication both by eye and by machine. There are two types of security features i.e. those of coverted and overted nature. The coverted types are solely for the knowledge of the authorities while the key overted security features to look for in the paper notes are as follow:
If the note is in reasonable condition it should be crisp. It should not be limp, waxy or shiny. Raised printing (intaglio printing) is used for some of the features on the note and it feels rough to touch. Security paper and special printing processes give currency notes a unique ‘feel’ and genuine paper does not reflect ultra-violet light and therefore will not glow when exposed to that light.
Lines should be sharp and well-defined with no blurred edges. The colours should be clear and distinct with no hazy fringes. Anti-copier and anti-scanner line structures were also incorporated as a defence against counterfeiting involving traditional methods or the use of colour photocopiers and scanners.
It should be hardly apparent until the note is held up to the light. Then a clearly defined portrait of His Majesty Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah Sultan and yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam with subtle gradations of light and shade, is visible.
All genuine paper notes have a thread embedded in the paper. In the 1989 series, the security thread is continuous and embedded. In the 1996 series of B$50 and B$100 notes, the security thread used is “windowed” and it appeared as a series of silver dashes on the front. In these two denominations, the “windowed” thread appears as a bold continuous line when held up to the light.
As for the polymer series, the main security features are:-
a transparent clear window with crest of Brunei Darussalam in the centre for B$1, B$5 and B$10. The new B$50 and B$100 have complex windows.
a translucent shadow image of the letters “HB” of His Majesty can be seen when note is held up to the light.
the serial registration numbers are printed both vertically and horizontally in fonts of varying sizes.
When the note is held up to the light, a flower is formed by combination of print on both sides of the note.
Please note that the above list of security features is by no means an exhaustive one. They only serve as a guide for the general public.
COINS:
As for coins, the genuineness is determined by two other factors i.e. the tone and finish, besides the specifications of sizes and weights as gazetted. A genuine coin gives a sharp ringing tone when dropped on a hard surface. Secondly, the relief of the design, milled edges (all have milled edges except for 1 cent coin), lettering and characters on both the obverse and reverse are very sharp and defined on genuine coins.