SPARK®
SICPA (Switzerland)
SPARK® is an optically variable magnetic ink (OVMI) developed by SICPA, first introduced to the market in 2006 and now one of the most widely deployed overt security features in the banknote industry. It has been printed on more than 280 denominations worldwide, establishing itself as a globally recognised standard in public-facing banknote authentication.
The ferromagnetic pigments in SPARK® are oriented using a magnetic field during the printing process, so that when the angle of illumination or observation changes, the image changes colour. The result is a characteristic rolling-bar dynamic effect — a bright beam of light that appears to move diagonally across the printed feature as the note is tilted. This effect is applied by screen printing and produces a colour shift between two distinct hues that is immediately visible to the naked eye without any detection equipment.
The technology is strictly reserved for banknotes and official identity and travel documents and is controlled by a secured supply chain exclusive to accredited high-security printers. This exclusivity is central to its security value, preventing counterfeiters from accessing the materials or replicating the effect through commercially available means.
SPARK® supports all three authentication levels. Its rolling colour shift provides a compelling Level 1 public authentication cue, while the magnetic properties of the ink enable Level 2b machine readability on automated banknote sorting and processing equipment. The feature can be applied to denomination numerals, logos, or custom design motifs, making it adaptable across a wide range of banknote designs and series.
- Name
- SPARK®
- Category
- Security Feature
- Effect Types
- Colour shift
- Company
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SICPA
Company Website - Product Page
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- Linked Features
- 1 security feature