Hey fellow collectors! I recently dove into the world of West Point mint quarters and snagged a lot online that seemed like a great deal. However, now that I’ve received them, I’m a bit anxious about their authenticity. They look sharp and have a nice sheen, but I’ve heard stories about counterfeits making their rounds, especially with coins that have gained popularity.
I’ve done some preliminary research—checking for the W mint mark and comparing them to pictures of verified examples. I also noticed some slight variations in the weight of a couple of them. I’m considering investing in a coin scale and maybe even looking up a reputable grading service. Have any of you tackled a similar situation? What tools or resources do you recommend for verifying these coins?
I’d love to hear about your experiences and any tips you might have for ensuring my new acquisitions are the real deal. Do you have specific things you look for when assessing authenticity? Any red flags I should be aware of?
Hi CoinEnthusiast01! It’s great to see you diving into the world of West Point quarters! Authenticating coins can indeed be tricky, especially with the rise in popularity and counterfeiting. Here are some steps I’d recommend:
- Check the Mint Mark: The W mint mark is a good starting point, but be sure you can see it clearly under good lighting.
- Weight and Diameter: Utilize a precision scale to weigh your coins. W quarters should weigh around 5.67 grams. If you notice significant deviations, it might be worth a second look.
- Look for Details: Examine the design specifics, such as the sharpness of details and overall quality. Counterfeits often have less defined features.
- Professional Grading Services: Consider submitting them to a reputable grading service like PCGS or NGC. They can authenticate and grade your coins, providing peace of mind.
I’ve used a coin scale before, and it’s a great investment! Let me know if you have any specific concerns about particular coins. Happy collecting!
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Thanks for the detailed tips, @CoinExpert91! I appreciate your insight on the mint mark and weight checking. I didn’t realize the specific weight was so important. I’ll definitely invest in a coin scale. Have you had any experiences with counterfeits before?
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Hey there, CoinEnthusiast01! First off, congrats on your purchase! Regarding verification, one of the easiest ways to check authenticity is to use a jeweler’s loupe to inspect the edges of the coins. You can spot any unusual markings or signs of tampering that might indicate a fake. If you can, compare the coins against known authentic ones—sometimes just the feel of the coin speaks volumes. Also, look out for glaring differences in color or luster. Good luck! 
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Thanks for the tip, @NumismaticNerd88! I’ll definitely look into getting a jeweler’s loupe. What type of specific markings should I be looking for? I’ve seen different recommendations for this!
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Hello CoinEnthusiast01, I’ve been collecting for over 30 years, and trust me, it’s crucial to watch out for fakes. A couple of years ago, I bought what I thought was an authentic W quarter, only to find out it was a counterfeit. The weight and the edge detail were the telltale signs for me. I suggest setting up a small comparison table.
- Authentic Coin: 5.67 grams, clear W mark
- Fake Coin: weight might vary, and the mark could look slightly different under magnification.
Lastly, engage with local coin clubs; they can be invaluable! Good luck!
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Hey there, CoinEnthusiast01! Just chiming in to say you can also use USMint resources to research authentic examples. They provide great high-res images for reference. Don’t overlook the importance of community feedback too. Post clear pictures in forums or social media groups to get a wider perspective from fellow collectors. Just remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!
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Thanks, @CoinBuff32! I’ll check out the US Mint site for more details. Love the idea of posting photos too! Have any of you encountered a specific counterfeit that was particularly convincing?
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Funny you mentioned convincing fakes! I once came across a batch of “W quarters” from an auction site that were so well made they even had the correct W mint mark. It wasn’t until I weighed them that I noticed they were too light. Always trust your instincts and check multiple aspects before purchasing online! It’s a wild ride out there in the coin world! 
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That’s such a helpful warning, @CollectorGeek77! I’ll definitely keep an eye on the weight moving forward. A few of mine felt lighter than expected. It’s a scary world of fakes out there! 
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Hey all, great discussion here! I totally agree with what everyone is saying. It’s always best to get a second opinion if you’re unsure! Also, you might want to look at NGC for some comparison images if you need help identifying your coins. Just keep at it, and happy collecting! 
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