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 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
The New Orleans Mint holds a special place in American numismatic history. As the epicenter of Southern coin production from 1838 to 1909, it minted some of the most iconic silver coins, from Seated Liberty coins to Morgan dollars. Q. David Bowers, a celebrated name in the world of numismatics, often highlights the charm and … Read more
The discovery of a cache of 1826 Large Cents, hidden for more than a century, reveals a fascinating glimpse into the lives of 19th-century Americans. These coins, part of the Coronet Head design series by Robert Scot, were minted during an era when large cents were a primary medium of exchange. Their sudden reappearance after … 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
The 1694 Elephant Token, a fascinating artifact from British numismatic history, has long captivated collectors with its mysterious origin and historical intrigue. Struck to promote the Royal Africa Company, these tokens were initially tied to England’s colonial ventures and trade in Africa. However, their allure has also made them a prime target for counterfeiters, and … Read more
The 1883 Seated Liberty Half Dollar is a collector’s favorite, embodying a rich part of U.S. numismatic history. Designed by Christian Gobrecht, the Seated Liberty design graced numerous denominations from the mid-19th century to the late 1800s. While the coin itself is not excessively rare, higher-grade examples are highly sought after, making it an attractive … Read more
The Kennedy half dollar, introduced in 1964 to honor the memory of President John F. Kennedy, remains a popular series among numismatists. While most Kennedy half dollars are relatively common, certain varieties and errors pique the interest of collectors. One of the most fascinating is the 1972-D No FG Kennedy half dollar, a rare variety … Read more
When it comes to collecting U.S. silver dollars, the Morgan and Peace dollars tend to dominate conversations. Their large mintages and historical significance have made them the centerpiece of many collections. However, seasoned numismatists know that the Seated Liberty dollar, which predates both series, is far rarer and holds a unique place in the history … Read more