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 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
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
The 1922 No D Lincoln Cent is one of the most iconic and sought-after coins in American numismatics. Its scarcity, combined with its unique origin, has made it a favorite among collectors. Unfortunately, this fame has also attracted counterfeiters who seek to replicate its rarity for profit. Understanding how to detect counterfeits is critical for … Read more
The 1893 Morgan Dollar is one of the most sought-after coins in numismatics, particularly because of the rarity of its Carson City and San Francisco mint issues. As one of the key dates in the series, an 1893 Morgan Dollar in top condition can command a substantial premium. Unfortunately, this desirability has made the 1893 … Read more
The art of numismatics involves more than just collecting coins; it also requires an understanding of how to spot counterfeits and altered coins. Among the various techniques used to deceive collectors, whizzing is one of the most common methods of coin alteration. A whizzed coin might look dazzling at first glance, but its artificial shine … Read more