Denominations of a currency refer to the different values that can be found on a bill or coin, allowing individuals to easily identify which currency they possess and facilitating exchange. Within a currency denomination system, it is common for lower denomination bills to be more prone to imitations than larger ones, though this may vary depending on the design and production quality.

In an attempt to gauge the effectiveness of denomination distribution, currency experts have noticed a few trends. It appears that smaller denomination currency is often targeted by counterfeiters, not only because it can produce a lower ' profit margin per note', making it more cost effective but also because smaller denomination money requires fewer materials for production making it easier for counterfeiters.

Another issue contributing to smaller denomination currency vulnerability is the complexity of these denomination designs whereas larger currency tends to have distinct visual elements which lend themselves to easier spotting of counterfeit effects. With US currency, for instance, the $100 denomination had some of the highest resolution designs of a series released by the Federal Reserve, making it possible for collectors and common users alike to more easily spot unauthorized reproductions.

The Federal Reserve addresses the circulation of counterfeit notes by integrating visual and tactile security features that safeguard the authenticity of large denomination currency. Techniques such as color shifting ink and high-quality cotton paper for larger denomination bills reduce the ease with which counterfeiters might successfully replicate the material and aesthetic of higher denomination currency.

However, the increasing global circulation of counterfeit money for sale​ notes means that even larger denomination notes are sometimes targeted. The best line of defense is awareness and knowledge of basic methods of identifying fake money that focus on color variations, paper consistency, and basic finishing details on the money. Vigilance and visual inspections, while not foolproof, can help deter fake money production and protect the integrity of currency exchange.

In the end, a currency denomination's specific vulnerabilities depend not only on its size but on various factors including the current state of imitation prevention mechanisms and the available forgery methods at the time. Hence, continued evolution of currency security mechanisms by governing reserve institutions plays a key role in safeguarding a currency against counterfeiting efforts, regardless of its allocated denomination.