Detecting Counterfeit Coins

Coins are generally considered to be genuine when they are stamped by a special machine.  Counterfeiters have many ways to duplicate these genuine coins and make them appear extremely authentic.  If you ever have a question about the authenticity of a coin, take it to your Michigan coin dealer to be examined more closely.  Rare coins are especially likely to be counterfeited.  The most common way to counterfeit coins is to use other coins and pour a liquid metal into a mold, which will leave the coin with cracked die marks.

Most of the time, counterfeiting will make changes that alter the date markings on the coin.  This is one way that experts can determine the coin’s authenticity.  Comparing it with the same coin that is known to be authentic can be helpful.

Anytime the value of a coin is five cents or more, there will be corrugations around the rim or outer edge.  These corrugations are often referred to as “readings.”  Authentic coins have distinct corrugations, and counterfeit ones often have missing or uneven corrugations, making it obvious that the coin is a fake.

The following list of characteristics often help to tell if a coin is counterfeit:

1. Restrike:  A restrike refers to a second strike of a coin, often dated earlier than the originally issued coins.  The features are exactly the same as the original coins.
2. Ancient coins:  Ancient coins from other countries are more likely to be copied.
3. Replica coins:  A replica is simply a reproduction of a coin with the same markings and features as the original coin.  An experienced Michigan coin dealer can usually detect a replica coin.  Replicas are often used in museums, or possibly for educational purposes, but these are typically marked as copies and not intended to be passed off as originals.
4. Coins from Lebanon are the most commonly counterfeited.  Historically, this was in an attempt to trick museums and collectors who were interested in purchasing these ancient coins.

Determining whether a coin is a forgery or not before making a purchase, especially in the case of very valuable coins, is critical.  To make careful investments when it comes to coin collecting, contact a Michigan coin dealer to ensure the authenticity of any coin you may be interested in investing in but uncertain regarding the legitimacy of the coin.