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 1936 Bridgeport Commemorative Half Dollar celebrates the centennial of Bridgeport, Connecticut, a city deeply tied to the legacy of P.T. Barnum, one of America’s most colorful and influential figures. Known as the “Prince of Humbug,” Barnum’s life as an entrepreneur, politician, and showman left an indelible mark on both his hometown and the broader … Read more
Numismatic history is filled with fascinating stories of collectors and the treasures they leave behind. One such tale centers on a physician from Sag Harbor, New York, who amassed an extraordinary collection of Capped Bust Half Dollars. This hoard, steeped in mystery and rich with historical significance, stands as a testament to the enduring allure … 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 world of coin collecting is filled with intrigue, and few stories captivate collectors more than those of counterfeit coins slipping past even the most experienced eyes. One such tale involves a suspect counterfeit of the 1799 Draped Bust Dollar—an iconic piece of early American coinage. Despite being authenticated by a third-party grading service, the … Read more
The 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel is one of the most intriguing and sought-after coins in U.S. numismatics. Known for its dramatic overdate—a clear “7” beneath the “8” in the date—it is a coveted prize among collectors. However, its desirability and high value make it a prime target for counterfeiters. Detecting fake examples of the 1918/7-D Buffalo … Read more
Jefferson Nickels, first introduced in 1938, are one of the longest-running coin series in the United States Mint’s history. They are renowned for their enduring design and are a staple in most coin collections. One unique feature of Jefferson Nickels is the changing location of their mint marks over the years, reflecting significant periods in … Read more
The 1937 Texas Half Dollar Commemorative Coin holds a special place in numismatics due to its unique design and historical context. Issued to commemorate the Texas Centennial of Independence from Mexico, these coins were minted between 1934 and 1938. While authentic examples are sought after by collectors, counterfeit versions have made their way into the … Read more
The 1879 Double Eagle is a striking example of American coinage, part of the Liberty Head $20 gold coin series designed by James B. Longacre. Minted between 1850 and 1907, these coins hold immense historical and financial value. However, their desirability has also made them a frequent target for counterfeiters. The 1879 Double Eagle, in … 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