Silver American Eagles - How to Not Buy Fake American Silver Eagle Coins
Coin fraud is a reality. However simply take these simple steps and you may know how to identify and prevent buying fake American Silver Eagle coins.
numismatics
The easiest and best means of avoiding becoming a victim of coin fraud is as simple as accumulating knowledge of what a genuine coin looks like then applying some good sense. If your coin just doesn't "look right" don't purchase it.
Look into the Weight with the Silver Eagle
Many fraudulent coins do not weigh the same as an actual coin. Genuine silver eagles weigh 31.101 grams. When the coin weighs about than this amount don't purchase it because coin weight is a thing that most forgers consistently get wrong.
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Does the American Silver Eagle Use a Reeded Edge?
All silver eagles have reeded edges. If you happen to see one without reeding its likely an imitation Chinese silver coin. Of course, if it is reeded there is however a seam around the side of the coin avoid purchasing it.
What is the Date of the Coin?
Look at the date. Amazingly enough, any Chinese Silver Eagle forgeries are dated 1906. The usa mint began producing these coins four decades later. The wrong date does not mean it's really a rare error. It means it is a forgery.
How can the Coin Look?
Silver coins have beautiful luster and sharp relief. In the event the coin you consider hiring is dull and grey it's not a genuine silver coin. Some higher quality forgeries are silver plated. However, in the event you look at these under a magnifying glass you'll either see tiny places that missed being plated (check between your reeding plus the crevices with the coin) and it'll possess a soapy look.
How can the Coin Sound?
Finally, should you carefully tap a silver coin with another coin you will hear a distinctive bell-like ring. If you contain the coin between your tips of the fingers, tap it, plus it makes a tinny sound that sounds like "dink" it's certainly not silver.
One way to safely purchase Silver Eagle coins is by buying them on eBay. You can find some very nice deals and protect yourself by first checking the seller's rating - the more positive feedback the higher.
Also, when purchasing at eBay, always carefully read the description of the items you would like to buy before bidding about it. And, if you have questions, make sure to send an email towards the seller and get your queries and concerns answered before buying.