Goloid 1878 0

[GabeClark]

Is this coin real?

 

 

Edited October 11, 2020 by GabeClark

[RWB]

The design is real - a US pattern piece. Can't tell from the photo if it is authentic, although it has defects common to counterfeits. Can you post a reverse and edge photos?

[GabeClark]

Yes I will post more pictures for sure 👍 thank you all. The coin weighs 26.4 grams 

Edited October 11, 2020 by GabeClark

[GabeClark]

[RWB]

GabeClark...

Thanks for the photos. Here they are in one image. Below is a genuine pattern piece from a Stack-Bowers auction.

Edited October 12, 2020 by RWB
Fix formatting - as usual

[RWB]

GabeClark, now take a close look at the rim and denticles. See the differences? Compare the horizontal lines on the reverse of the genuine piece with yours. Look at the letter shapes and top surfaces -- do you see the "puffyness" of letters and numerals? Compare details of the reverse stars; authentic stars have internal relief, the fakes are just 6-pointed lumps. Notice the convenient gunk around most of the inscriptions on your piece? That helps hide defects.

Look back and forth between the two sets of photos. They should be identical. The more you look, the more you'll see.

BTW - US patterns are properly called "pattern pieces" not "coins." The reason is that patterns were never approved for legal tender use, and thus were never legal US coins.

Edited October 12, 2020 by RWB

[Fenntucky Mike]

Never seem to get the stars right on these copies/fakes, let alone the finer details.

[RWB]

These things are "copies" only if they comply with HPA. Otherwise, they are blatant counterfeits.

[James_OldeTowne]

I vote: "counterfeit"