Abstract: United States paper currency can be denomination sensed by a system for scanning a predetermined path along one surface and comparing the resultant scan against a standard for a particular denomination. Subsequently, it is determined whether the scanned currency is of a particular denomination or is questionable. The one surface can be an obverse surface of paper currency, the predetermined path of the obverse surface can be magnetically scanned; the scanning direction occurs along a major axis of the currency; and the scanned currency can be sorted in accordance with the determination. Various denominations can be determined at one time either in seriatim or in parallel.

Abstract: The denomination indicia contiguous with the Treasury seal on United States paper money can be located. Apparatus includes means for transporting the documents lengthwise along a course. Two reproduce heads, each having a like plurality of tracks oriented along a line substantially perpendicular to the direction of motion. Means associated with one head detect the leading edge margin of each document. Means responsive to the detection of the leading edge margin produce a set of timing pulses. A latch means responsive to the tracks of the first magnetic head upon receipt of one of the timing signals indicate the likelihood of a portion of the denomination indicia being in proximity thereto. Shift register means are responsive to the latch means. Clock pulses are applied for shifting the shift register during a time interval when the likelihood of a portion of the denomination indicia is in proximity to the first head.