Avansa Counterfeit Detector Pen

⚙️ Technical Specs

The Avansa Counterfeit Detector Pen uses a specialised iodine-based ink to identify fake currency immediately. When applied to a suspicious note, the ink reacts with the starch present in wood-based paper, commonly used in counterfeit bills, turning the mark black, dark blue, or brown. On the other hand, genuine notes, which are made from fibre-based paper, will show a faint yellow or clear mark that fades quickly. This pen is universally compatible, designed to work effectively on all types of currencies, making it a versatile tool for businesses. Its lightweight and compact design ensures it fits easily into any cash register drawer or pocket, providing a portable and discreet solution for instant on-the-spot verification. Each pen contains enough ink for thousands of tests, providing long-lasting protection against fraud.

Money Detector

What is a Money detector?

A money detector (also called a counterfeit money detector) is a device that checks banknotes for security features like UV markings, magnetic ink, infrared patterns, and watermarks. It helps businesses quickly spot fake notes at the till, during cash-ups, or when receiving deposits, reducing losses and disputes.

Quick answer: which money detector should you buy?

• Low cash volume: UV money detector (basic screening)
• Retail tills: UV + MG detector (better reliability)
• Higher risk sites: Multi-detection (UV + MG + IR + watermark)
• Fastest and most accurate: Automatic note validator or mixed-note counter with counterfeit detection

Money detector types (and what they’re best for)

How to choose the right money detector (South Africa)

1. Assess risk: higher foot traffic and higher-value notes usually need multi-detection.
2. Decide where it will be used: till point, back office, cash room, or receiving bay.
3. Choose detection depth: UV only, UV + MG, or full multi-sensor.
4. Confirm currency support: make sure it supports the banknotes you accept.
5. Think about speed: if queues matter, consider an automatic validator or a note counter with detection.
6. Plan the process: set a rule for suspect notes (log, isolate, supervisor check).

Best practices to reduce counterfeit losses

• Use a detector on every large note and any note that “feels wrong”.
• Train staff on basic checks: feel, look, tilt, then verify with the device.
• Keep a simple incident log and store suspect notes separately.

🗣️ Customer Testimonial

"Running our small retail store in Durban, we handle a lot of cash daily. The Avansa Counterfeit Detector Pen has been a game-changer. It's so quick and easy for my staff to use. We've caught a few fake notes that would have cost us money. It's a simple, inexpensive solution that gives us great peace of mind."

🎯 Ideal Applications

The Avansa Counterfeit Detector Pen is ideal for businesses that frequently handle cash and require a quick, front-line defence against counterfeit currency in the Southern African market. This includes busy retail stores in Johannesburg, small hospitality venues in Cape Town, and various businesses in general trade across Zambia or Mozambique. It's perfect for cashiers needing to verify notes rapidly during peak hours. Small offices, spaza shops, and market vendors will find it an indispensable and cost-effective security measure.

💡 How To Use a Counterfeit Pen

The Avansa Counterfeit Detector Pen is very simple to use. To check a note, draw a small mark on it with the pen. If the mark turns dark (black, blue, or brown), the note is likely counterfeit because the ink is reacting with starches found in common paper. If the mark remains pale yellow or clear, and then fades, the note is genuine, as authentic currency paper does not contain these starches. This quick visual check helps you determine a note's authenticity in seconds.

How do Money Pens Work?

Most use an iodine-based chemistry that darkens when it meets starch (common in wood-pulp paper). Banknote paper is usually cotton-based, so it reacts differently. 

💰 Value Benefits

Investing in the Avansa Counterfeit Detector Pen offers significant return on investment for B2B buyers. It dramatically reduces the risk of accepting fraudulent currency, protecting your business from financial losses that can quickly add up. Its ease of use minimises staff training time and speeds up transaction processes, enhancing operational efficiency. By providing a quick verification method, it improves customer service by preventing delays at the till. This simple tool empowers your staff to confidently handle cash, reducing stress and improving overall security awareness. It's a small investment that yields substantial protection and efficiency gains for your daily operations.

📊 Product Comparison

When considering the Avansa Counterfeit Detector Pen against other detection methods or competitor pens, it's important to understand its specific advantages for rapid, on-the-spot verification. While more advanced machines offer multi-point detection, the Avansa pen excels in immediate, cost-effective screening.

Feature Comparison:

Detection Method:

• Avansa Counterfeit Detector Pen: Iodine-based ink chemical reaction to paper composition.
• CPT Counterfeit Detection Marking Pen UV020: Typically iodine-based ink, sometimes with UV light.
• LJI Counterfeit Detector Pens: Primarily iodine-based ink.
• Avansa MixCount 2825: Advanced multi-point detection (UV, MG, IR, image, size, thickness) for mixed notes.
• Avansa MaxCount 2800: Comprehensive counterfeit detection (UV, MG, IR, size, thickness).

Portability & Speed:

• Avansa Counterfeit Detector Pen: Highly portable, instant check at point of sale.
• CPT Counterfeit Detection Marking Pen UV020: Portable, fast spot check.
• LJI Counterfeit Detector Pens: Portable, quick test.
• Avansa MixCount 2825: Desktop machine, high-speed batch processing with value count.
• Avansa MaxCount 2800: Desktop machine, high-speed batch processing.

Cost-Effectiveness:

• Avansa Counterfeit Detector Pen: Very low initial investment, high ROI on fraud prevention.
• CPT Counterfeit Detection Marking Pen UV020: Low cost.
• LJI Counterfeit Detector Pens: Low cost.
• Avansa MixCount 2825: Higher initial investment, significant efficiency gains for high volumes.
• Avansa MaxCount 2800: Moderate initial investment, efficiency for high volumes.

🧭 Explore Our Product Range

To further enhance your cash handling and security, explore other innovative Avansa products:

• Avansa CompactCount 2050: Light-duty entry-level note counter.
• Avansa LightCount 2100: Entry-level note counter.
• Avansa BlitzCount 2600: Basic note counter with counterfeit detection.
• Avansa MaxCount 2800: Heavy-duty counter with advanced counterfeit detection and value per denomination.
• Avansa MixCount 2825: Single packet mixed value counter.
• Avansa SuperCount 2700: Heavy-duty 1.5 pocket mixed value counter.
• Avansa SuperSort 2900: Heavy-duty 1.5 pocket mixed value counter with fitness sorting.
• Avansa SuperCoin 1100: Mixed coin sorter and counter.
• Avansa BulkCoin 4650: Heavy-duty coin scale with dual counting modes.
• Avansa Note & Coin Scale 4800: Advanced coin and note counting scale.
• Avansa Locking Cash Bag: Secure bags for cash transfer and storage.
• Avansa Drop Safes: Secure safes for cash drops and storage.

❓ Common Questions

What if the counterfeit pen mark turns dark on a genuine note?

This is highly unlikely. Avansa pens use a specific ink that only reacts with starch found in fraudulent, wood-pulp paper. Genuine currency is made from fibre-based paper and will not react with the ink. If you suspect an issue, check other security features like watermarks or security threads.

Can the Avansa Counterfeit Detector Pen detect all types of fake money?

The Avansa pen is highly effective for detecting most common counterfeits based on paper composition. However, advanced counterfeits, like "bleached bills" where low denomination genuine notes are washed and reprinted, may sometimes pass the pen test. For maximum security, always combine the pen with visual checks of security features or use a multi-point counterfeit detector machine.

How long does an Avansa Counterfeit Detector Pen last?

The lifespan of an Avansa Counterfeit Detector Pen depends on usage, but each pen is designed to provide thousands of tests. Ensure the cap is replaced tightly after each use to prevent the ink from drying out. Store it at room temperature for optimal performance.

Is this counterfeit pen reliable for South African Rand notes?

Yes, the Avansa Counterfeit Detector Pen is designed for universal currency protection and works reliably with all types of currencies, including the South African Rand. The principle of detection (reaction with wood-pulp paper) applies to most counterfeit notes globally, making it a highly effective tool in Southern Africa.

Does the mark from the counterfeit pen damage genuine currency?

No, the pale yellow or clear mark left by the Avansa Counterfeit Detector Pen on genuine notes is designed to disappear quickly and completely, leaving no permanent damage or residue. It will not devalue or compromise the integrity of legitimate currency.

Where can I get more information or support for my Avansa Counterfeit Detector Pen?

For more information, troubleshooting, or technical support regarding your Avansa Counterfeit Detector Pen, you can visit the Avansa website or contact our dedicated customer service team through the "Request a Quote" option on our website. Our service centres in Southern Africa are ready to assist you.