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Story
December 5, 1861
Fayetteville Observer
Fayetteville, Lincoln County, Tennessee
What is this article about?
The New Orleans Bee describes a method to detect counterfeit Confederate notes using a solution of cyanide potassium, which discolors and effaces fakes but leaves genuine notes unchanged. Caution advised as the chemical is poisonous.
Clipping
OCR Quality
98%
Excellent
Full Text
To Detect Counterfeit Confederate Notes,--The New Orleans Bee of a late date says that the spurious notes which are in circulation may be easily detected by applying to them a solution of cyanide potassium. Five cents' worth of the article dissolved in an ounce or two of water will last ten years.--
When the genuine note is tested by the cyanide, it undergoes no change, but the counterfeit is immediately discolored, assuming a yellow tinge. In a few moments the photograph becomes completely effaced. The test has been used in several instances with entire success. The only caution to be used is by no means to allow the cyanide of potassium to come in contact with the tongue, as it is a deadly poison.
When the genuine note is tested by the cyanide, it undergoes no change, but the counterfeit is immediately discolored, assuming a yellow tinge. In a few moments the photograph becomes completely effaced. The test has been used in several instances with entire success. The only caution to be used is by no means to allow the cyanide of potassium to come in contact with the tongue, as it is a deadly poison.
What sub-type of article is it?
Curiosity
Deception Fraud
What themes does it cover?
Deception
Justice
What keywords are associated?
Counterfeit Notes
Confederate Currency
Detection Method
Cyanide Potassium
New Orleans Bee
Where did it happen?
New Orleans
Story Details
Location
New Orleans
Event Date
A Late Date
Story Details
Spurious Confederate notes can be detected by applying a solution of cyanide potassium, which discolors counterfeits yellow and effaces the photograph, while genuine notes remain unchanged. The solution is long-lasting and effective, but the chemical is poisonous.