Hey fellow collectors! I’ve been diving deeper into reverse proof coins lately, and I recently came across a listing that raised some red flags for me. The seller’s pictures looked decent, but something about the sheen didn’t sit right. I’m still relatively new to this niche, so I wanted to reach out for some tips or insights from the community.
I’ve read that the key indicators for spotting counterfeits involve studying the detail on the coin’s surface, especially around the edges and the lettering. Also, I’ve had my eye on the particular minting year, which is known to have variations. However, even with all my research, I still worry that I’m missing the subtleties that could tell a true specimen from a fake. Honestly, I find the whole counterfeiting thing a bit daunting!
So, what strategies do you all use to ensure that your reverse proof coins are authentic? Are there any specific red flags you look for when examining these coins? I’m eager to hear your thoughts and hopefully learn from your experiences!
Hey CoinSleuth92! I completely understand your concerns about counterfeit reverse proof coins. As someone who has been collecting for a few years, I can share some strategies that have worked for me.
First and foremost, always check the mintmark and the year. Certain years have distinctive features or variations that can indicate authenticity. For instance, the 2012 Reverse Proof Silver Eagle is known for specific details that should be present.
Also, using a jeweler’s loupe can help you closely examine the details of the coin. Look for the following key indicators:
- Surface texture: Genuine reverse proof coins will have a frosted finish and high relief.
- Lettering details: Pay close attention to the sharpness and depth of the letters; counterfeits often have poor quality in this area.
- Weight: If you can, weigh the coin to compare it against the standard specifications found on the PCGS site.
Lastly, if it feels too good to be true, trust your gut. Don’t hesitate to ask the seller for more detailed images or even consider getting it evaluated professionally. Happy collecting!
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Thanks, NumismaticsNerd! Those are fantastic tips. I didn’t think about using a jeweler’s loupe for detailed inspection. I’ll definitely check out the PCGS site for more specifics on the details of my coins. Your mention of the 2012 Eagle makes me wonder if I should focus on specific years or just get a general sense for all reverse proofs. What do you think?
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A good rule of thumb is always to verify the seller’s reputation before making a purchase. Look for reviews or see if other collectors have purchased from them before. For reverse proof coins, you should also be mindful of the toning that can come with legitimate coins as they age. Counterfeits often fail to mimic this aspect accurately.
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Hey @CoinSleuth92, I’d say it’s wise to focus on specific years as different minting processes can lead to unique identifiers. There are some great forums dedicated to reverse proofs where you can find pictures of genuine vs. fakes. This will help you become more confident in what to look for. Have you checked out the NGC forums? They have tons of resources!
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Absolutely agree with @CoinExpert99! Trust is key in this hobby. Also, if you can see a reflection in the coin, make sure it shows a clear image. Fakes often exhibit a blurry or muted reflection due to poor finishing. Keep that in mind during your research!
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Why did the coin collector go broke? Because he lost his sense of cents! But seriously, always double-check your finds—it can save you a lot of headaches down the line!
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Thanks for the tips, everyone! I’ve decided to focus on specific years, and I’ve got some more digging to do on the NGC forums. Appreciate all the insights!
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In my experience, light play is essential when examining reverse proofs. Use different angles under a bright lamp, as this can reveal inconsistencies and surfaces not visible under standard lighting. This helped me avoid a wrong purchase last year!
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Great tip, @CoinSearchJoe! I had not considered lighting impacts that much. I’ll definitely try using different angles when checking my coins out this weekend!
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Remember this: If a deal seems too appealing, it often is. Use your best judgment and trust your instincts. If you have doubts, don’t be afraid to walk away from the purchase—it’s better to be safe than sorry! I’d recommend checking resources from the US Mint as well, they sometimes provide information on counterfeiting.
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