Counterfeiting is (fortunately) limited

Danish banknotes include security features that make them difficult to counterfeit or copy. These security features are clearly visible and can help you check whether a banknote is genuine. There are relatively few instances of counterfeiting in Denmark.


Counterfeiting of Danish banknotes is very limited. Registered counterfeit banknotes account for approximately four banknotes per million in circulation, based on a total number of banknotes in circulation of 195.1 million. This is a very limited number in an international context.

Large-scale counterfeiting of Danish coins is rare. Just as is the case with Danish banknotes, the number of counterfeit coins is very limited in an international context.

The number of registered counterfeit banknotes rose from 727 in 2020 to 795 in 2021. Of these, 539 were found in circulation. The counterfeit banknotes registered were mainly the 1000-krone banknote.

Advanced security features of Danish banknotes make them difficult to counterfeit. The maximum sentence for counterfeiting is

12 years’ imprisonment

– one of the most severe penalties under the Danish Penal Code.

How to detect a counterfeit banknote

If you are not sure whether a banknote is counterfeit, check the advanced security features of Danish banknotes that make them difficult to counterfeit or copy. The hologram, watermark and the feel of the paper may help you to determine whether a banknote is genuine or counterfeit.

The maximum sentence for counterfeiting

Counterfeiting and attempted counterfeiting are criminal offences under sections 166-168 of the Danish Penal Code. The maximum sentence for counterfeiting is 12 years’ imprisonment – one of the most severe penalties under the Danish Penal Code.

Typically, anyone convicted of manufacturing and distributing counterfeit banknotes or being an accessory to counterfeiting will receive an unsuspended prison sentence. In recent years, the longest sentences have been up to approximately two years in prison, and the production and distribution of just a few counterfeit banknotes have resulted in unsuspended prison sentences. For accomplices, or in case of mitigating circumstances, the sentence has been a fine or a suspended term in prison, or dismissal of all charges. The sentence depends on the specific circumstances of the case.

The provisions of the Danish Penal Code also apply to counterfeiting of foreign banknotes and coins.

 

 

Photo: Simon Skipper/Gonzales Photo/Ritzau Scanpix