18 U.S.C. § 472 – Uttering Counterfeit U.S. Obligations or Securities
This law makes it a federal crime to pass or use counterfeit U.S. money or securities.
This statute focuses on what happens after counterfeit currency or government obligations already exist. It applies to people accused of using, spending, selling, or attempting to circulate counterfeit items, even if they did not personally create them.
The core issue is intent. Prosecutors must show that the person knew the item was counterfeit and acted with intent to defraud.
What the law prohibits.
A person violates this statute if they knowingly and with intent to defraud:
- Pass or attempt to pass counterfeit U.S. currency
- Utter, publish, or sell counterfeit obligations or securities
- Bring counterfeit currency into the United States
- Possess or conceal counterfeit items
Mere possession is not enough by itself. The government must prove both knowledge of the counterfeit nature and an intent to deceive.
Penalties.
A conviction under this statute can result in a fine, up to 20 years in federal prison, or both.
If you’re accused of passing or possessing counterfeit currency, call (314) 900-HELP or contact our criminal defense attorneys to discuss your case.
