Trade Dollar Counterfeits

stev32k

I have been watching trade dollars on ebay and in the local coin shop with the idea of getting a good one for my type set. I am not an expert, but I did ask some questions and did some research on the internet on how to detect fakes, I'm amazed at how many counterfeits I have seen. In the past two weeks I've spotted one or two every day. Here is one example Link. I'm beginning to think this may be the most counterfeited series of all U.S. coins. At least I've never seen or heard of so many fakes in any other series.

I also notice that there are very few slabbed Trade Dollars. I guess that has to do with the fact that some high percentage (maybe 60 - 80%) have been cleaned, dipped, scrubbed, polished, and/or whizzed. Overall it's really hard to find a genuine, nice, and original trade dollar.

tradedollarnut

I've seen coins I was sure were fakes offered by dealers at my local shop. I also had to tell a board member his coin was probably no good. Save yourself some heartache and only buy this series certified by a top tier service!

keoj

eBay is rife with many, many fake Trade Dollars. As you noted, nice Trade Dollars are hard to find. I agree with TDN and just buy certified coins until you know exactly what the diagnostics are. I still occasionally get fooled and I've been collecting them for 15 years.

keoj

CarlWohlforth

I've got one right here. 1875-S. A client wanted me to send it to PCGS. It looked funny and I said that would be a good idea because there are many fakes and this could be one. I weighed it when I got home and it is very light so is obviously fake. There is no need to send it in.

Now, what do I do with it?

Merc

Be careful here. Threre are many good quality fake Trade dollars out there. Some have the correct size, weight and silver content so specific gravity and weighing the coin won't help.

stev32k

I decided to take a chance and brought this it should be here today or tomorrow. I spoke with the seller and he has agreed to refund my money if it comes back body bagged from PCGS. Just have to wait and see.