Is It Against the Law to Destroy Money in the United States?

Money is more than just paper or metal—it is a legal instrument issued by the government. In the United States, destroying money is not only discouraged, it is illegal under federal law. The law treats U.S. currency as government property, and damaging or defacing it can carry serious consequences.

Federal Law on Defacing or Destroying Currency

The main statute governing the destruction of money is 18 U.S. Code § 333, which states that it is illegal to mutilate, cut, deface, disfigure, or perforate coins or currency with the intent to render them unfit for circulation. This law applies to:

• U.S. paper currency (bills)
• U.S. coins

The statute does not prohibit minor wear or natural aging, such as folding bills or slight tearing from everyday use. Instead, it targets intentional acts meant to damage or destroy currency.

Penalties for Destroying Money

Violating 18 U.S. Code § 333 can lead to:

• Fines
• Imprisonment of up to six months for coins and bills
• Criminal records, which may affect employment and legal standing

While enforcement is generally reserved for serious or deliberate destruction, even small-scale acts of vandalizing currency could technically constitute a federal offense if authorities choose to pursue it.

Examples of Illegal Money Destruction

Some common examples of activities that could violate federal law include:

• Burning or shredding bills for artistic projects or personal amusement
• Using coins for jewelry in a way that renders them unfit for circulation
• Writing extensively on currency with the intent to deface or destroy it

Even online “money-burning challenges” or viral videos that encourage destroying currency could fall under legal scrutiny.

Legal Exceptions and Clarifications

Certain limited activities are generally not considered violations:

• Destroying counterfeit money: Since it is not legal tender, disposing of counterfeit bills or coins is not criminal.
• Damaged or old money: Banks routinely accept worn, torn, or defaced bills for replacement. Citizens can exchange damaged currency at banks without legal issues.
• Educational or illustrative purposes: Minor markings or folding for demonstration purposes are generally tolerated, especially if the currency remains recognizable and intact.

Coins vs. Paper Currency

It is worth noting that coins have slightly different rules. Melting coins for metal content, especially U.S. pennies and nickels, is regulated under federal law. The U.S. Mint prohibits melting or mass destruction of certain coins for commercial purposes, reflecting the government’s interest in maintaining the integrity of circulating currency.

State Law Considerations

While 18 U.S. Code § 333 covers federal currency, state laws may also address the destruction of local tokens, checks, or municipal currencies, though these are less common. Intent to commit fraud or interfere with commerce can elevate penalties under state criminal statutes.

Practical Takeaway

In the United States, destroying or defacing money is generally against the law. Federal statutes aim to protect the integrity of currency and ensure its continued circulation. Even acts that seem harmless, like burning a bill for art or personal amusement, could technically result in legal penalties if done intentionally.

The safest approach is to treat all U.S. currency as government property. If you have damaged bills or coins, exchange them at a bank instead of attempting to destroy them. Respecting the law helps maintain the value and trust in the nation’s currency system.