18 U.S.C. § 486 – Unauthorized Coinage Intended for Use as Money
This law makes it a federal crime to make or circulate unauthorized metal coins intended to function as money.
This statute targets private or unauthorized coinage meant to be used as current money. It applies even when the coins are made of real gold, silver, or other metals, and even when the design does not copy U.S. or foreign coins.
The key issue is intent that the coins function as money. The government does not need to prove counterfeiting of an official design.
What the law prohibits.
A person violates this statute if they knowingly and without legal authorization:
- Make coins of gold, silver, or other metal intended for use as current money
- Utter or pass such coins as money
- Attempt to utter or pass unauthorized coins into circulation
- Circulate coins resembling U.S. coins, foreign coins, or coins of original design
Artistic, collectible, or novelty items not intended to function as money are generally outside the scope of this statute.
Penalties.
A conviction under this statute can result in a fine, up to 5 years in federal prison, or both.
If you’re accused of making or circulating unauthorized coinage, call (314) 900-HELP or contact our criminal defense attorneys to discuss your defense.
