Chop marks on U.S. dollar bills are small stamps, often shaped like stars, initials, or symbols, placed by foreign money handlers to confirm a bill’s authenticity. These marks are commonly used in regions with high risks of counterfeiting, acting as a sign that the currency has been checked and accepted. While they don’t officially alter the value of the bill, some banks or machines may reject bills with excessive markings due to potential readability or scanning issues.

Despite that, chop marks serve as unique indicators of a bill’s international journey and reflect global trust in the U.S. dollar. Each mark essentially documents a checkpoint in the bill’s life, showing where it was verified and by whom. Though unusual in everyday American transactions, these marks are reminders of the dollar’s status as a global currency circulating far beyond U.S. borders.