How to spot fake money?

How can you spot fake old money?

• I just bought some Confederate paper money this guy claimed to be authentic, the reason I'm concerned is I got it very cheap, he claimed he was closing up shop as a collector and wanted to just get them out of his store. I live way out in the country and theres no one around here that knows anything about this type of money, does anyone know a way I can authenicate it's real?

• Answer:

  There is a book called Confederate States Paper Money by Arlie R. Slabaugh. Web sites claim it to be "the best inexpensive book that contains pictures and information on Confederate Money" The book was first printed in 1960 and again in 1990. From information on www.wscoin.com/info/confederatepapermone… it is now out of print, however they still have several copies that can be ordered through their web site. The book is 248 pages with 200 pictures, I looked up the cost, $16.16. But I bet you could also find it at your local big store book store. Just because it's out of print doesn't mean it's not out there. Other options are obviously going to a specialist for appraisal. But I have found myself being charged more for an appraisal than my item(s) were worth. Best of luck and good fortune to you.