A secure document value includes a sheet-like substrate and a thin film,
optically variable security device on the substrate. The security device
includes a carrier and a multilayer coating on the carrier. The
multilayer coating includes a dielectric-metal stack having an exposed
reflective layer that is tailored after manufacture to include security
data proprietary to the issuer of the document of value thereby to deter
forgery. Since the security device is tailored after manufacture, the end
supplier of the document of value does not need to provide the
proprietary information to the manufacturer of the security device for
incorporation therein. This also enables the manufacturer of the security
device to stockpile material until such time the material must be
customized to include proprietary data. This results in shorter lead
times and better response to market demands.