Numismatic circles are often buzzing with tales of counterfeit coins that have managed to slip through the cracks. Among these, the story of an “authenticated” counterfeit 1899 Double Die Reverse (DDR) Barber Quarter serves as a fascinating cautionary tale. This piece demonstrates the evolving sophistication of counterfeiters and underscores the critical role of expertise and … Read more
The discovery of counterfeit coins slipping past professional authentication services is always a chilling reminder of how sophisticated the forgery trade has become. One notable case involves a counterfeit 1872-S Liberty Seated Half Dollar—a coin of great historical and numismatic significance. Despite being encapsulated and authenticated by a major grading service, the coin was ultimately … Read more
The 1802 Draped Bust Silver Dollar is an iconic coin from the early years of American numismatics, cherished by collectors for its historical significance and beauty. However, its high value and rarity make it a prime target for counterfeiters. Identifying fake 1802 Draped Bust Silver Dollars requires both knowledge and vigilance, as some counterfeits are … Read more
The 1872 Seated Liberty Silver Dollar is one of the most iconic coins of the 19th century U.S. coinage, prized for its detailed design and historical significance. However, like many popular and valuable coins, it is also the subject of counterfeit attempts. Detecting these counterfeit coins is crucial for collectors and investors to protect the … Read more
The world of coin collecting is filled with mystery, intrigue, and the occasional disappointment—especially when collectors come across counterfeit coins that have slipped past authentication processes. One particularly fascinating example is the “authenticated” counterfeit 1798 “S-158” Large Cent, a coin with a rich historical background and a compelling story. The 1798 Large Cent: A Key … Read more
The world of numismatics is filled with fascinating stories of rare coins, unusual finds, and cautionary tales of forgeries. One of the more intriguing examples to emerge recently is an “authenticated” counterfeit 1723 Rosa Americana coin, a relic tied to early American colonial history. While the coin itself is counterfeit, its story offers critical lessons … Read more
The Harry W. Bass Collection remains one of the most celebrated private numismatic collections in the history of U.S. coinage. Featuring some of the rarest and most sought-after coins ever struck by the U.S. Mint, the collection is a testament to Bass’s passion for numismatics and his unyielding commitment to acquiring pieces of historical significance. … Read more
Counterfeit coins have plagued collectors and investors for centuries. As counterfeiting techniques grow more sophisticated, so does the need for vigilance among those buying and selling rare coins. To protect your collection, it’s essential to know which U.S. coins are most commonly counterfeited and how to detect them. Below are the top 10 most counterfeited … Read more
The 1842 Dahlonega Gold Half Eagle is a cherished artifact of Southern gold coinage. Struck at the Dahlonega Mint in Georgia, which operated from 1838 to 1861, these coins embody the unique history of gold production in the region. With only 4,643 coins minted in 1842, the Half Eagle is rare and highly sought after … Read more
The 1880-CC Morgan Dollar is one of the most sought-after coins among collectors due to its iconic design, historic significance, and the prestige associated with the Carson City Mint. However, its desirability has made it a prime target for counterfeiters. To protect yourself as a collector, it is crucial to understand the hallmarks of genuine … Read more