Marker vs Ink Smear 1 1

[TheRedStream]

So I mostly keep an eye out for serial numbers, but every now and then I find some bills that have marks on them. What is the best way to tell the difference from a marker/dirt mark from an ink smear/smudge.

[Fenntucky Mike]

Tough to describe how to know other than you need to see several examples as an authentic ink smear from the BEP has a certain look and feel to it. For example, a smear of the first or second printing wouldn't cover or be on top of the overprint, because of how notes are printed smears will always look like they are wiped top to bottom, etc.. 

Neither of the notes posted appear to have ink smear from the BEP. 

The other thing to note about ink smear errors is that minor smears bring no premium, and where the smear is located and how it looks can effect the price.