Tag: coin-authentication
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1944 Steel Wheat Penny: Identification and Value Reference
The 1944 steel wheat penny is a rare wartime error. Only a few dozen genuine examples exist across all mints.
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How to Identify Civil War-Era Coins: Authentication Guide
Civil War-era coins date from 1861 to 1865. Identify them by metal composition, denomination, and mint mark against PCGS references.
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Storage Unit Auctions vs Estate Sales: Where Coin Collections Hide
Estate sales uncover more coin collections than storage units. Storage auctions still hide larger untouched hoards. Verify every coin before you bid.
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What is a Clipped Planchet Coin and Is It Valuable
A clipped planchet is a coin struck on an incomplete blank, missing a curved slice. Genuine clips show a weak rim opposite the missing area.
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How to Spot a Counterfeit Canadian Silver Dollar (1935-1967)
A genuine 1935 to 1967 Canadian silver dollar weighs 23.33 grams. Cast counterfeits miss that weight and show seam lines. The rare 1948 needs a magnifier check.
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How to Spot a Counterfeit 1921 Morgan Silver Dollar
Spotting a counterfeit 1921 Morgan silver dollar starts with weight and edge reeding. A genuine coin weighs 26.73 grams.
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How to Identify Counterfeit Cast Coins: Pitting, Edge and Surface Markers
Cast counterfeit coins show pitting, seam lines, and soft detail. Genuine struck coins almost never do. Here is how to spot the difference.
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1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent: Complete Identification Reference
The 1969-S doubled die cent shows bold obverse doubling with a single S mint mark. Genuine examples sell from $25,000 to over $100,000.
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How to Spot a Real 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent vs Common Counterfeits
A genuine 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent has a small serif S with a raised dot inside its top curve. Most fakes are added-mintmark jobs on common 1909 cents.
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1840 Large Cent Lamination Error: Identification Reference
An 1840 large cent lamination error is copper peeling away in thin layers from a flawed planchet. Crude 1840s refining trapped gas and debris.
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How to Spot a Counterfeit Gold Coin: Fake Detection for Collectors
Detecting counterfeit gold coins involves examining weight, edge reeding, and magnetic properties. Genuine gold coins exhibit unique characteristics such as precise dimensions and consistent markings. Learn essential tips to protect your collection. Let’s kick things off with the easiest tell:…
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What is a Doubled Die Error and How to Spot One
A doubled die error occurs during the minting process and results in a coin with an image appearing twice. These errors can significantly increase a coin’s value, especially with known examples like the 1955 Lincoln penny. Learn how to identify…
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22 Most Valuable Standing Liberty Quarters Identified
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter hit a stunning sale of $276,000 at a 2015 Heritage Auction. Its limited mintage makes it highly coveted. Here are 22 valuable Standing Liberty Quarters with prices and identification tips. Standing Liberty Quarters are a…
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How to Spot a Counterfeit Morgan Dollar
Identifying a counterfeit Morgan Dollar involves checking weight, surface details, and known mint marks. Authentic Morgan Dollars feature precise engravings and specific dimensions, with certain dates more prone to forgery. Learn to identify fakes with these insights. Morgan Dollars were…
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How to Identify Ancient Roman Coins: Beginner’s Guide
Identifying ancient Roman coins can be thrilling and challenging, with key details revealing mint locations and historical context. Ancient Roman coins often feature Roman emperors and symbolic imagery. Follow along for beginner tips on spotting fakes and understanding coin inscriptions.…
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PCGS vs NGC: Which Grading Service Is Better in 2026
PCGS and NGC continue to dominate coin grading, each grading millions of coins annually. PCGS offers a market advantage, while NGC provides diverse service options. Explore which service best suits your collection needs. In the coin collecting world, PCGS and…
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How to Spot a Fake 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
Identifying a fake 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent is crucial. Genuine coins feature specific die markers and mint locations. Learn the key differences and prevent costly mistakes. The 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent is one of the most well-traded coins in U.S.…
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How to Tell if Your Coin is Gold or Gold-Plated
Identifying gold coins involves checking weight and specific gravity with devices like Fisch testers. Examining magnetism and edge markings helps determine authenticity. Discover practical tips for telling genuine gold from gold plating. The most straightforward way to start assessing your…
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How to Authenticate British Crown Coins from the Pre-1900 Era
Learn how to authenticate British crown coins from the pre-1900 era by examining key features like weight and edge design. Familiarize yourself with counterfeit markers that can affect value. This guide delivers practical tips for collectors. British crown coins feature…