Here’s another bit about counterfeiting, specifically about a woman who was really good at it. Also via Wikipedia, a short history of Mary Butterworth who, as far as I know, has not yet been the subject of any historical fiction treatment… in case anybody out there is looking for an idea:
Colonial authorities knew of an extensive counterfeiting ring operating somewhere in the Rhode Island area throughout the later half of the 1710s, and felt it was beginning to have a damaging impact on the entire colonial economy. In 1722 colonial authorities became suspicious of Mary Butterworth after her husband John purchased a large, expensive new home for the family.
On August 14, 1723 a trial was held in Newport, Rhode Island. One Nicholas Campe testified he passed two counterfeit Rhode Island bills he obtained through Butterworth. Two of Butterworth’s associates (her brother and his wife) turned state’s evidence and also testified against her. Ultimately though, the court dismissed all charges against her for lack of hard evidence.
After the trial, Butterworth reportedly gave up counterfeiting. She died in 1775 in Bristol County, Massachusetts.