In the complex world of preventing counterfeit coins, the techniques used by counterfeiters have become very advanced. As this field continually evolves, counterfeiters keep finding new ways to trick vending machines and automated systems. However, the fight against counterfeiting is more complicated than it seems.
Furthermore, the damage that can be done to the public trust in a denomination or a currency series at large when unfit coins or coins that were supposed to be melted, suddenly turn up in circulation again might be the biggest risk out there. When first physically destroying the coins, this risk is eliminated.
Check this article detailing a scenario where destroyed coins re-entered circulation.
Crushing coins: a robust solution
Crushing coins is an effective way to prevent counterfeiting by damaging the coins so they can't be used illegally. Unlike cutting, crushing uses less energy and causes less wear on the equipment, saving costs and extending the machinery's lifespan. This is because the crushing rolls of our technology are no wear parts, whereas a cutting tool requires frequent replacement.
Notably, during the Euro transition in the Netherlands, the crushing rolls utilised in the Kusters system exhibited negligible wear, despite processing hundreds of metric tonnes of old Dutch Guilder coins. Additionally, it's important to note that when the coin is crushed, it maintains its distinctive oval shape, even if counterfeiters attempt to flatten it again. So the coin remains deformed both visually and physically. This distinctive feature makes the crushed coin stand out and prevents it from being accepted in vending machines.
The simple nature of crushing also means it requires less operator intervention. Once started, the system can break down coins efficiently without jams or interruptions. Below, you can view the results produced by the Coin Crusher machine. These coins have been rendered unusable in vending machines.
The disadvantages of cutting coins
Imagine a coin being carefully cut into two pieces and then being reassembled to look like it did originally. This technique makes it hard for vending machines to detect fake coins.
Cutting coins may appear straightforward, but it presents significant challenges. The process of cutting metal requires a substantial amount of energy, leading to high temperatures that cause wear and tear on cutting tools, risking their breakdown. Additionally, feeding each coin into the cutter can result in frequent jams, disrupting the efficiency of the operation. Continuous monitoring by operators is necessary, adding to the overall costs.
Reassembling cut coins to resemble the original and be used again in vending machines requires precision but is less time-consuming than other counterfeiting techniques.
Conclusion: crushing prevails
In the ongoing fight against counterfeit coins, crushing proves to be better and more secure than cutting. It's efficient, cost-effective and reliable, making it the best solution for preventing coin manipulation.
Using advanced methods like the Coin Crusher is essential to protect currency systems and maintain trust. Crushing stands out as a dependable method to prevent counterfeit coin activities and ensure the integrity of our monetary systems.
If you are interested in more detailed info about our Coin Crushing technology and would like to understand how it plays a crucial role in the fight against counterfeit coins, we invite you to download our brochure. It will provide you with a closer look at the benefits of Coin Crushing.
Royal Dutch Kusters Engineering, Value Adding Technology
