How to Spot Fake Morgan Dollars
Morgan dollars, minted from 1878 to 1904 and again in 1921, are highly sought-after coins in the numismatic community. These coins, featuring the profile of Lady Liberty and the eagle, have a rich history and can be quite valuable. However, with their popularity, there has been an increase in the number of counterfeit Morgan dollars on the market. This article will guide you through the essential steps to spot fake Morgan dollars and ensure you are purchasing genuine pieces.
Examine the Obverse Side
The obverse side of a genuine Morgan dollar features Lady Liberty, with her hair tied back and a star on her headband. To spot a fake, look for the following:
1. Hair: Fake coins often have a “sawtooth” or “teeth” effect in Lady Liberty’s hair, whereas the real coins have smooth, flowing hair.
2. Headband: The star on the headband should be well-defined and not appear flat or misshapen.
3. Date: Ensure the date is legible and well-struck. Fake coins may have a date that is faint, misaligned, or uneven.
Inspect the Reverse Side
The reverse side of a Morgan dollar features an eagle with wings spread, surrounded by olive branches and a shield. To identify a fake, consider the following:
1. Eagle: The eagle’s wings should be spread wide and the feathers well-defined. Fake eagles may have wings that are too narrow or feathers that appear flat.
2. Olive Branches: The olive branches should be intertwined and well-defined. Fake coins may have branches that appear disconnected or too thin.
3. Shield: The shield on the eagle’s breast should have a clear, well-defined border. Fake coins may have a shield that is blurred or misshapen.
Check the Edge
Morgan dollars have a reeded edge, which is a series of fine grooves around the coin’s circumference. To spot a fake, look for the following:
1. Edge: The reeds should be uniform and well-defined. Fake coins may have a reeded edge that is uneven, missing, or too thick.
2. Diameter: Compare the coin’s diameter to known genuine examples. Fake coins may have a slightly larger or smaller diameter.
Observe the Weight and Thickness
Genuine Morgan dollars have a specific weight and thickness. To spot a fake, use a scale and caliper to measure the coin’s dimensions:
1. Weight: Genuine Morgan dollars weigh approximately 26.73 grams. Fake coins may be slightly lighter or heavier.
2. Thickness: Genuine Morgan dollars have a thickness of about 1.55 mm. Fake coins may be thicker or thinner.
Use Authentication Tools
There are various tools and services available to help you authenticate a Morgan dollar. These include:
1. Magnifying glass: Use a magnifying glass to examine the coin’s details, such as the hair, feathers, and edge.
2. Coin authentication services: Consider using a professional coin authentication service to ensure the coin’s authenticity.
3. Coin grading services: Submit the coin to a coin grading service to receive an official grade and authentication.
By following these steps and using the appropriate tools, you can effectively spot fake Morgan dollars and protect yourself from purchasing counterfeit coins. Always exercise caution when buying coins online or from unfamiliar sellers, and remember that knowledge is your best defense against forgeries.
