microprints
Microscopic printed characters
Microprints are tiny printed text or images, often too small to read without magnification.
They appear as security features on currency, checks, and official documents—difficult to reproduce with standard copiers or printers.
Microprinting also refers to the technique itself: The border contains microprints that say "VALID" repeatedly.
Degree of visual enlargement
- loupePocket-sized detail viewer
- microscopeInstrument for viewing minute objects
- examinationMethodical assessment or review
- scrutinyClose, careful examination
forensics · authentication · verification · inspection · UV light · analysis · zoom · enlargement
Translucent authentication mark
- intaglioCarving cut below surface
- serial numbersUnique identifying sequences
- hologram3D image from light
- guillocheIntertwined curved ornamental pattern
tamper-evident · embedded · encoded · invisible ink · fluorescent · latent image
Paper currency notes
- treasuryStored organizational funds
- mintageCoin manufacturing process
- engravingCarving into hard surfaces
- Federal ReserveUS central banking system
bills · denomination · portrait · border · fibers · substrate · polymer · cotton-linen
Creating fraudulent imitations
- fraudIntentional criminal trickery
- fakeNot the real thing
- replicaFaithful scaled reproduction
- imitationCopy of the original
bootleg · knockoff · counterfeit · scanning · reproduction · photocopying · detection · security breach
Carving into hard surfaces
- precisionAccuracy of measurement
- miniaturizationReducing physical scale significantly
- typographyArranging letters for display
- fine linesShallow facial creases
microdots · etching · resolution · hidden text · offset · lithography
Official proof documents
- passportsGovernment-issued travel identification
- checksBank payment documents
- bondsTies that unite
- diplomasProof of academic completion
licenses · contracts · stamps · visas · tickets · prescriptions · identity cards · title deeds
magnification
Degree of visual enlargement
- loupePocket-sized detail viewer
- microscopeInstrument for viewing minute objects
- examinationMethodical assessment or review
scrutiny · forensics · authentication · verification · inspection · UV light · analysis · zoom · enlargement · naked eye
watermark
Translucent authentication mark
- intaglioCarving cut below surface
- serial numbersUnique identifying sequences
- hologram3D image from light
guilloche · tamper-evident · embedded · encoded · invisible ink · fluorescent · latent image
banknotes
Paper currency notes
- treasuryStored organizational funds
- mintageCoin manufacturing process
- engravingCarving into hard surfaces
bills · Federal Reserve · denomination · portrait · border · fibers · substrate · polymer · cotton-linen · legal tender
forgery
Creating fraudulent imitations
imitation · bootleg · knockoff · counterfeit · scanning · reproduction · photocopying · detection · security breach · criminal
engraving
Carving into hard surfaces
- precisionAccuracy of measurement
- miniaturizationReducing physical scale significantly
- typographyArranging letters for display
fine lines · microdots · etching · resolution · hidden text · offset · lithography
certificates
Official proof documents
diplomas · licenses · contracts · stamps · visas · tickets · prescriptions · identity cards · title deeds · securities