Is It Illegal to Draw on Money? Understanding Defacing Currency Laws

One of the most common questions we receive is: Is it illegal to draw on money? It's a fair concern, especially for those who modify coins for artistic or jewelry-making purposes.

What Does the Law Say About Defacing Money?

The U.S. law governing defacing currency is found in Section 331 of Title 18 of the United States Code. This law prohibits anyone from fraudulently altering, defacing, mutilating, impairing, diminishing, falsifying, or lightening any coin minted by the U.S. Treasury.

The key term here is fraudulent intent. Simply changing the appearance of a coin or bill is not illegal unless it is done with the intent to deceive or commit fraud.

Is Drawing on Money Illegal?

No, it is not illegal to draw on money. Writing or doodling on a bill is generally allowed as long as it does not render the bill unfit for circulation or involve fraudulent intent. Many artists use paper currency as a medium for creative expression without breaking any laws.

Is It Illegal to Burn Money?

Unlike drawing on money, burning money is explicitly illegal under 18 U.S.C. § 333. This law makes it a federal crime to mutilate, cut, deface, disfigure, or otherwise destroy U.S. currency with the intent to render it unfit for circulation.

Is It Legal to Sell Altered Large Cent Coins?

Many coin collectors and jewelry makers wonder: Is it legal to sell altered large cent coins? The answer depends on the circumstances. If a coin is modified for artistic or decorative purposes without fraudulent intent, it is legal to sell. However, altering a coin to misrepresent its value or rarity could be considered fraud.

Examples of Legal and Illegal Coin Modifications

• Illegal: Modifying a 25-cent coin to pass it off as a dollar.
• Illegal: Scratching off details on a Buffalo Nickel to falsely claim it is a rare collectible.
• Legal: Melting a silver dollar and selling it for its silver content.
• Legal: Using heat and pressure to transform a coin into jewelry.

Final Thoughts

If defacing money were illegal in all cases, common items like pressed penny souvenirs would not exist. Additionally, several famous pieces of coin jewelry are displayed in the Smithsonian Institution, reinforcing the legality of altering coins for non-fraudulent purposes.

We always ensure our practices comply with the law, and we hope this article clarifies any concerns. If you're interested in coin jewelry, check out our unique pieces in the American Pride, Find Your Tribe, and World collections!