This warning is valid in Italy just as in all the other European Countries where Euro has become the local currency. The Thailand 10-Baht coin is sometimes given at the place of the 2-Euros coin, so be careful when you get your change, and check it because the 10-Baht coin that you can see in the following link, is only worth 20 cents of euro...which means 1/10 of what you should get. Apart from the fact that you might feel embarassed once you try to buy something with it!
Have a look at the 10-Bath coin at:
http://thailandforvisitors.com/general/moneycoins.html

Thanks francheso!!

Hi Francesco,

The bill was 6E. I gave the waiter a 10E note. He hesitated and then left 2 1E coins.

Not as profitable as your scam, but just as nasty.

My LW said not to make a scene, so I left hi a 1 cent tip.

more dangerous are the fake bills.

there is a small short vertical "line" about half inch tall, quartet inch wide, to left of large denomination number at top. if this line when scratched with finger nail has texture, easy way to know that bill is good.

was created for the blind.

Also in Italy, check your change carefully as the old 500 lira coin, now worthless, is being given in place of the new two euro coin. The coins are the same size and design (silver outer ring with inlaid copper middle).

Here's a link with a photo of both coins. Although the reverse isn't shown, look for a large 2 on the euro coin.

http://www.ricksteves.com/plan/tips/scam.htm

Thanks for the info on the Baht. Gotta stay on our toes!

Ira- I liked the 1 cent tip to let the waiter understand ;-) ...and since I get to talk to you: Grazie...

When someone shortchanges me, I always bring it to their attention.

1. There is some chance that it might have been a mistake. Maybe they are math-challanged, or perhaps just had a bad day, migraine headache, or ...?

2. If it was purposeful theft and they are called on it, perhaps they will try it less often on other potential victims.

3. A couple of euro won't make me or break me, but it's my money--I do work hard for it whether it's two euro or two cents.

4. Mrs. Fly would beat me soundly about the head and shoulders if I could not account for every penny spent--well, she'll be OK as long as we're within a dollar when accounts are reviewed.