Morgan Silver Dollars are among the most counterfeited US coins. Key authentication points include checking the weight (26.73 grams), examining the edge reeding, and verifying the sharpness of design details. Genuine Morgans have a distinctive ring when dropped on a hard surface.
Key Authentication Points:
Check weight: 26.73 grams
Examine edge reeding pattern
Look for sharp design details
Test the ring tone
Verify date/mintmark placement
Walking Liberty Half Dollar Authentication
Beginner
Walking Liberty Half Dollars
Walking Liberty Half Dollars are beautiful coins that attract counterfeiters. The flowing lines of Liberty's gown and the eagle's feathers should be sharp and well-defined. Check for proper weight of 12.5 grams.
Key Authentication Points:
Sharp design details
Correct weight: 12.5 grams
Proper silver content
Edge reeding pattern
Natural wear patterns
Peace Dollar Authentication Guide
Intermediate
Peace Silver Dollars
Peace Dollars from 1921-1935 are frequently counterfeited. The relief on genuine Peace Dollars is quite high, especially on the eagle on the reverse. Pay attention to the word PEACE on the rock - it should be sharp and well-defined.
Key Authentication Points:
High relief design elements
Sharp PEACE inscription
Correct weight: 26.73 grams
Proper silver color and luster
Edge reeding examination
US Gold Eagle Authentication
Advanced
Gold Eagles
Gold Eagles require special attention due to their high value. Use a strong magnet - genuine gold is not magnetic. Check weight carefully and examine the fine details in the eagle's feathers. Professional authentication is recommended for valuable pieces.
Key Authentication Points:
Non-magnetic properties
Exact weight specifications
Fine detail examination
Professional verification recommended
Beware of gold-plated fakes
General Authentication Tips
Visual Inspection
Check surface quality and luster
Look for proper wear patterns
Examine edge details and reeding
Verify correct fonts and spacing
Physical Tests
Weigh the coin (compare to specifications)
Measure diameter and thickness
Magnet test (gold/silver are non-magnetic)
Sound test (genuine coins have distinct ping)
Red Flags
Wrong weight or size
Magnetic attraction (precious metals)
Obvious casting lines or bubbles
Incorrect date/mintmark combinations
Tools Needed
Magnifying glass (10x minimum)
Precision scale (0.01g accuracy)
Calipers for measurements
Strong magnet (neodymium)
Still Not Sure?
Professional authentication services provide definitive answers for valuable coins.