Raleigh, N.C. — Federal authorities have warned local businesses to be on the lookout for counterfeit $50 bills circulating around the Raleigh area.

According to the United States Secret Service, the counterfeit bills are of high quality but can be detected if examined closely.

A notice distributed by the Secret Service told merchants to be aware of the following indicators:

• The counterfeit has the combination “C 3” for its Quadrant Check Letter and Number.
• The counterfeit has the combination “C 1” for its Face Plate Letter and Number.
• The counterfeit is missing the small horizontal black line between the “5” and the “0” in both 50s in the upper left and upper right corners.
• The counterfeit has a small black defect attached to the right border of the “0”.

Anyone who comes into contact with an individual attempting to pass a $50 bill fitting that description is asked to observe as much information as possible about that person, including a description and information about any companions or vehicles connected to that person.

Persons who have any knowledge about the counterfeit scheme or who come into contact with the money are asked to contact Raleigh police at 919-554-6150 and the U.S. Secret Service office in Raleigh at 919-790-2834.