18 U.S.C. § 473 – Dealing in Counterfeit U.S. Obligations or Securities
This law makes it a federal crime to traffic in counterfeit U.S. currency or government securities.
This statute targets the movement and distribution of counterfeit money rather than its creation or everyday use. It applies to people accused of supplying, transferring, or handling counterfeit obligations with the expectation that they will be put into circulation.
Compared to simple “passing” cases, charges under this statute often involve repeated transactions, larger quantities, or allegations of organized counterfeiting activity.
What the law prohibits.
A person violates this statute if they knowingly and with intent that the items be treated as genuine:
- Buy, sell, exchange, or transfer counterfeit U.S. currency or securities
- Receive or deliver counterfeit obligations as part of a distribution effort
- Participate in the movement of counterfeit items for later use or circulation
The government must prove not just possession, but intent that the counterfeit items be passed or used as real.
Penalties.
A conviction under this statute can result in a fine, up to 20 years in federal prison, or both.
If you’re under investigation for alleged counterfeit trafficking or distribution, call (314) 900-HELP or contact our criminal defense attorneys to talk through your options.
