Detecting Counterfeit Coins

Coin collecting is a fun hobby; you get to look for coins and get a piece of history, as some are decades or even centuries old. Unscrupulous individuals will take advantage of your enthusiasm for coin collecting by selling you fake coins.

Fortunately, there are signs that help you identify a fake coin.

The Magnetic Test

Many counterfeits pass this test with flying colors, but gold and silver coins are non-magnetic. If a supposed coin is gold or silver, then it should not stick to a magnet. Fake coins made from any steel or iron will have magnetic features. Metals that have a core of lead, zinc, copper or other non-magnetic metals will not pass this test.

The Ice Test

This is an easy and affordable testing method; get ice and place the silver coin on top of it. Observe if the ice melts quickly, if it does, you have a genuine coin. Silver is one of the best conductors of heat, making it easy to melt ice if placed on it.

The Dimensions Test

This counterfeit test only works for bullion coins minted by the government. You will need a digital electronic scale that is capable of measuring at least up to two decimal points in grams. The measurements of a genuine coin are exactly how the government minted them. The slightest of deviation may indicate that a coin is a fake.

Visual Test

Silver coins have a distinct appearance and texture; it is neither too cloudy nor shiny. Use a magnifier to see if there are any mismatched surfaces, crevices, edges or text spaces. It is best to have an original coin right next to the one you suspect to tell the difference.

If possible, use a jeweller’s loupe as it has a special lens that has a higher magnifying capability.

Easily spot a fake coin by looking at the edges of a coin or its reeding. If a coin has no reeds or grooves, there is a high possibility that it is a counterfeit since minted non-reeded coins are rare.

The Bleach Test

Silver tarnishes easily when an oxidizing chemical touches it. You need just a drop, once a coin blackens then it is genuine silver. This test is risk, if your coin has any resale value; the blackened coin will lose value.

These tests will help you identify if your coin is genuine or counterfeit. You get to save money by detecting a fake coin before you buy it or add it to your collection.

Read more coin collecting tips from Colonial Acres.