18 U.S.C. § 490 – Counterfeiting or Dealing in Minor U.S. Coin Currency
This law makes it a federal crime to counterfeit or circulate fake one-cent or five-cent U.S. coins.
This statute applies specifically to low-denomination U.S. coins, namely pennies and nickels. It covers both the creation of counterfeit coins and the circulation or possession of those coins when done with fraudulent intent.
What the law prohibits.
A person violates this statute if they knowingly:
- Falsely make, forge, or counterfeit one-cent or five-cent coins of the United States
A person also violates this statute if they knowingly and with intent to defraud:
- Pass, utter, publish, or sell counterfeit one-cent or five-cent coins
- Bring counterfeit minor coins into the United States
- Possess counterfeit minor coins for use or circulation
Intent to defraud is required for possession or circulation, but not for the act of making the counterfeit coins.
Penalties.
A conviction under this statute can result in a fine, up to 3 years in federal prison, or both.
If you’re charged with offenses involving counterfeit minor U.S. coinage, call (314) 900-HELP or contact our criminal defense attorneys to discuss your defense.
