In the world of coin collecting, not everything is what it seems. Recently, I discovered an interesting case involving a counterfeit 1817 13 Stars Large Cent. As someone who has spent nine years studying fakes, I was surprised to find a coin that even a third-party grading service approved. Let’s dive into this case and understand why it’s essential to spot fakes and how even experienced collectors can be fooled.
What is a Counterfeit Coin?
A counterfeit coin is a fake coin made to look like a real one. Some fakes are easy to spot, while others can trick even seasoned collectors. Over the years, I’ve categorized these fakes into different types. Here’s a quick look at the different levels of counterfeits:
| Type of Counterfeit | Description |
|---|---|
| Cartoon Counterfeits | Easy to identify, often poorly made. |
| Red Book Counterfeits (RBCs) | More deceptive; can resemble real coins but have noticeable flaws. |
| Mid-Level Deceptive Counterfeits | High-quality fakes that may fool experts and grading services. |
The 1817 13 Stars Large Cent
This particular coin, the 1817 13 Stars Large Cent, was recently listed for auction, and it surprised me. It was graded by a third-party service, which usually checks coins for authenticity. However, I noticed that this one might not be genuine.
The Grading Process
When a coin is graded, it goes through a detailed evaluation. The service looks for various signs of authenticity. Here’s a simple table showing the steps involved in grading coins:
| Grading Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Initial Inspection | Look for obvious signs of fakes. |
| Detailed Analysis | Examine features like design and weight. |
| Attribution Check | Identify the coin’s genuine variety (may cost extra). |
| Final Grading | Assign a grade based on the coin’s condition. |
Identifying the Fake
To identify this counterfeit, I compared it to a genuine coin. Here’s what I found:
| Feature | Counterfeit Coin | Genuine Coin |
|---|---|---|
| Liberty’s Profile | Different design | Accurate representation |
| Date Digits | Misaligned and odd shapes | Correct shape and alignment |
| Surface Flaw | Common pit on Liberty’s bust | Smooth surface |
I even found similar fakes sold online, showing a common design flaw shared among them.
Auction House and Third-Party Grading
You might wonder how a fake coin like this made it to an auction. Generally, auction houses are careful about what they sell, but sometimes they overlook issues. Here’s a table summarizing how coins can slip through:
| Reason for Oversight | Description |
|---|---|
| Lack of Thorough Inspection | The auction may prioritize other items. |
| Grading Mistakes | Third-party services can sometimes miss important details. |
| Seller Reputation | Auctions may trust known sellers too readily. |
In this case, the auction listing was taken down before the sale because it was identified as a fake. This shows that even established services can make mistakes.
The Importance of Attribution
Whenever you look at a coin, remember the three key words: ATTRIBUTION, ATTRIBUTION, ATTRIBUTION! Proper attribution means identifying a coin’s genuine variety. Unfortunately, this is often an extra service that isn’t included in standard grading, which is where mistakes can happen.
Conclusion
The journey to understand the counterfeit 1817 Large Cent has been a team effort. With support from my friends, fellow members of Early American Coppers, and my family, we work hard to spot these tricky fakes. This case reminds us to always be cautious when collecting. Knowing how to spot counterfeits can help protect your collection and ensure you invest in genuine coins.
By staying informed and engaged with the community, collectors can better identify fakes and avoid costly mistakes. Always double-check, do your research, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed!
FAQ’s
What is a counterfeit coin?
A counterfeit coin is a fake coin made to look like a genuine one. Some are poorly made and easy to spot, while others are high-quality fakes that can deceive even experienced collectors.
How can I tell if a coin is genuine?
To determine if a coin is genuine, you should check its design, weight, and any identifying features. Proper attribution, which involves confirming the coin’s genuine variety, is also crucial in spotting fakes.
What should I do if I find a counterfeit coin?
If you suspect a coin is counterfeit, it’s best to consult with a professional grading service or an expert in coin collecting. They can provide an evaluation and help you understand the coin’s authenticity.
