Olympia:
(360) 489-1804
Sequim:
(360) 477-4507
Olympia:
(360) 489-1804
Sequim:
(360) 477-4507
In Part 1, we covered some of the most common visual signs that a gold coin or precious-metal item may be counterfeit. But convincing fakes can look surprisingly authentic. In Part 2, we’ll go beyond appearance and look at the physical measurements professionals use—including weight, dimensions, balance, and density—to compare a suspicious coin against official mint specifications and uncover counterfeits that are harder to spot by eye alone.
● slightly underweight
● too thick
● incorrectly sized
● unevenly balanced
Professional dealers use:
● precision scales
● digital calipers
● density calculations
to compare items against official mint specifications.
● slightly underweight
● too thick
● incorrectly sized
● unevenly balanced
Professional dealers use:
● precision scales
● digital calipers
● density calculations
to compare items against official mint specifications.
Counterfeit coins may be slightly underweight compared with genuine examples. Even a small difference can be significant because official coins are manufactured to very specific weight standards.
Picture idea: Coin sitting on a precision digital scale, with the measured weight compared against the official mint specification.
Fake coins can be:
Counterfeiters sometimes compensate for using a metal with the wrong density by changing the thickness or diameter of the coin.
Picture idea: Digital calipers measuring a coin, perhaps with a genuine and counterfeit coin shown side-by-side.
A counterfeit coin may also be unevenly balanced because of inconsistent thickness, poor casting, or uneven distribution of material.
Picture idea: Coin balanced horizontally on a small central point, with one side visibly dipping downward.
Professional dealers use:
These measurements can then be compared with official mint specifications for the coin being examined. Weight, dimensions, and density together can reveal discrepancies that are difficult to spot visually.
If you’re still unsure whether a gold coin, piece of jewelry, or other precious-metal item is genuine, professional testing can provide a much clearer answer. American Rare Coin & Gold offers free appraisals and professional evaluation of gold, silver, coins, jewelry, and other valuables, helping you understand exactly what you have before you decide whether to keep, sell, or add it to your collection.
