The Bank of Zambia has clarified that security threads on genuine banknotes of the same denomination may appear in slightly different positions by design. Such variation is neither a defect nor, on its own, evidence that a banknote is counterfeit. Authenticity checks should therefore consider several security features rather than rely solely on thread position. During production, the thread can move slightly within a defined area called the “wandering zone”. This controlled variation distributes the thread’s additional thickness, helping prevent ridges when banknote paper is rolled or stacked. As a result, threads on genuine notes of the same denomination do not always align exactly, and the eagle may also appear in different positions. The public is encouraged to use the TILT, LOOK, FEEL and CHECK approach to examine Level 1 security features, which require no specialised equipment. These include the watermark, raised printing and tactile marks. The free Zambian Banknotes app provides interactive guidance for checking these features by denomination, but it is an educational guide for examining physical banknotes, not a tool that automatically authenticates them.
Bank of Zambia clarifies security thread position variations on genuine banknotes
The Bank of Zambia has explained that slight differences in security thread positions on genuine banknotes are intentional production variations, not defects or standalone evidence of counterfeiting. The public should check several security features using the TILT, LOOK, FEEL and CHECK approach. Its free Zambian Banknotes app offers guidance on these checks but does not automatically authenticate notes.