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Ebay listing (this forum teaches me a lesson)
tins
Posts: 23
I originally bought a what I thought was a cull Morgan dollar (ebay item #221620034220) : http://www.ebay.com/itm/1887-O-MORGAN-SILVER-DOLLAR-FREE-SHIPPING-/221620034220?ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2047675.l2557&nma=true&si=n1qTwhjLY%2FP9D5dFyfqbcbXrDhM%3D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc
Once I received, it weight almost a gram short (25.8g). So, I took it to the top coin shop in St. Louis where it was said to be counterfeit. I notified the seller, they did not message back, but refunded my money (after return). I believed it to be an honest mistake since they have 100% feedback.
Now, that same coin is back listed (same scuff marks, everything. etc) as authentic (ebay item # 321631734803):
http://www.ebay.com/itm/1887-O-MORGAN-SILVER-DOLLAR-FREE-SHIPPING-/321631734803?pt=Coins_US_Individual&hash=item4ae2becc13
Yesterday, I reported it to ebay. Today, I called them and told them that the seller is knowingly selling a counterfeit Morgan. Also, has listings for 2 other Morgans that do not appear to be authentic.
Ebay still has not taken it down. I've reported it 2 days in a row.
Not sure what else to do.
EDIT: Conesus on forum agree coin to be authentic. I have contacted ebay and informed them of this.
Once I received, it weight almost a gram short (25.8g). So, I took it to the top coin shop in St. Louis where it was said to be counterfeit. I notified the seller, they did not message back, but refunded my money (after return). I believed it to be an honest mistake since they have 100% feedback.
Now, that same coin is back listed (same scuff marks, everything. etc) as authentic (ebay item # 321631734803):
http://www.ebay.com/itm/1887-O-MORGAN-SILVER-DOLLAR-FREE-SHIPPING-/321631734803?pt=Coins_US_Individual&hash=item4ae2becc13
Yesterday, I reported it to ebay. Today, I called them and told them that the seller is knowingly selling a counterfeit Morgan. Also, has listings for 2 other Morgans that do not appear to be authentic.
Ebay still has not taken it down. I've reported it 2 days in a row.
Not sure what else to do.
EDIT: Conesus on forum agree coin to be authentic. I have contacted ebay and informed them of this.
I like rice. Rice is great when you're hungry and you want 2,000 of something.
-Mitch Hedberg
-Mitch Hedberg
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Comments
Old Link and New listing
-Paul
bob
welcome, by the way!
Ebay still has not taken it down. I've reported it 2 days in a row.
Not sure what else to do.
Apologize to the seller?
Collecting 1970s Topps baseball wax, rack and cello packs, as well as PCGS graded Half Cents, Large Cents, Two Cent pieces and Three Cent Silver pieces.
<< <i>Your sigline is rather ironic, OP... >>
Lol, thanks...I thought it was funny first time I heard someone say it...and does fit in well here. My knowledge on coins and the numismatic would is roughly that of a child. I don't have any ego or pride and welcome those with expertise to put my in my place, as it'll be the best way for me to learn this world I find so fascinating. Expect me to ask many rudimentary questions as time goes on, should I not find answers using the search function. (I'll do my best to keep them to a minimum.)
This particular coin, I was told by a third party expert, to be a fake.
-Mitch Hedberg
The weight is only one aspect of authenticity and it is not far enough off to be of any importance.
Was the diameter and thickness measured? Ring test? Specific gravity test?
Dentils on both sides are perfectly shaped and appropriate for the wear. Mint mark is A-OK.
If it is a fake, I've got to quit buying coins.
bob
<< <i>...
This particular coin, I was told by a third party expert, to be a fake. >>
I suggest you not seek advice regarding coins from this ''third party expert'' ever again. He's misleading you, whomever he is.
I'd apologize to the seller.
<< <i>Your expert needed to put his glasses on. Sorry, but it's the truth..I'd own it any day of the week.
The weight is only one aspect of authenticity and it is not far enough off to be of any importance.
Was the diameter and thickness measured? Ring test? Specific gravity test?
Dentils on both sides are perfectly shaped and appropriate for the wear. Mint mark is A-OK.
If it is a fake, I've got to quit buying coins.
bob
I thank you for your detailed reply. In fact, none of those tests were performed...only visual (told the color was wrong) and weight was off. I suppose I should have found y'all a long time ago...I will contact ebay immediately and inform them that further expert opinion believes the coin to be authentic...as well as reach out to the seller.
-Mitch Hedberg
Are we allowed to put our names and telephone numbers on the forum?
-Mitch Hedberg
<< <i>Another question from new member-
Are we allowed to put our names and telephone numbers on the forum? >>
Yes, but careful what sensitive information you choose to post; this is not a private forum.
<< <i>maybe the third party told you it was fake so you would frequent his shop more? >>
That seems backwards. Isn't it honesty/fairness that leads to repeat service?
<< <i>Your expert likely noted the ~3.5% weight loss and pronounced it counterfeit without a close look. Losing 0.9g at the level of wear shown (G+/VG) is unusual but not unheard of.
I'd apologize to the seller. >>
I once did a study of some "slick" Barber coins and Morgan dollars. Typical weight loss was about 7%. For a full rim Good (not a cull, by the way) this one is OK.
<< <i>maybe the third party told you it was fake so you would frequent his shop more? >>
More likely because I am becoming more enamored with this new hobby was wasting his time asking to look through a bunch of coins I already purchased elsewhere.
I was also told not to waste my time collecting the low grade coins that I have been, that I'd be better off saving and have a smaller, but more valuable collection.
-Mitch Hedberg
Last question before I move on to a couple hours of reading and hopefully gaining a little knowledge from your previous years of threads-
Should I edit out my original post to remove the listing and item number? Or, leave it up to maybe give them more exposure (possible an extra bid?)?
-Mitch Hedberg
<< <i>Last question before I move on to a couple hours of reading and hopefully gaining a little knowledge from your previous years of threads-
Should I edit out my original post to remove the listing and item number? Or, leave it up to maybe give them more exposure (possible an extra bid?)? >>
Leave it as is. Give others a chance to learn.
<< <i>
<< <i>
<< <i>Last question before I move on to a couple hours of reading and hopefully gaining a little knowledge from your previous years of threads-
Should I edit out my original post to remove the listing and item number? Or, leave it up to maybe give them more exposure (possible an extra bid?)? >>
Leave it as is. Give others a chance to learn. >>
Brian has it right... nothing makes you look worse than deleting the original post. You manned up, admitted your error, and took steps to rectify the potential situation you created. You don't look bad at all here, just a newbie still learning the ropes.
Sounds fair. Left up, changed title to remove any ambiguity in regards to the seller's coin.
Lastly, I DID send seller a private message of apology along with an offer of compensation.
-Mitch Hedberg
Which shop did you go to? I'm just curious. The person might not have been an expert, or they might have just made a passing comment because the coin is not considered collectible in its condition.
I knew it would happen.
25.8 grams ? This 1922 Peace Dollar weighed in at about 20 grams.
Buy better. Be happier. And forget those coins that don't fit your hand , eye, or need.
And let those others who deal, deal what they may.
And a quick note as a refresher :
Every coin is unique unto itself, despite how many were made.
Practice makes perfect & nobody is perfect. So, practice being nobody.
<< <i>Looks real to me too.
Weight loss is probably from wear. >>
agreed
The more qualities observed in a coin, the more desirable that coin becomes!
My Jefferson Nickel Collection
I'm not saying that this is bad but it sounds like s/he was simply mimicking your suspicions which is what a good salesman does.
As for "reading" more? I personally think that you've done enough "reading" but its sounds like what you've been reading is all the "counterfeit coin" threads posted out there. Perhaps attending one of the ANA Summer Seminars is what you really need since these can give you a hands on approach to determining a coins authenticity from the real experts.
Then you can become an expert. With credentials.
The name is LEE!
RIP Mom- 1932-2012
<< <i>With 11.5 million mintage, are you building a low grade set? >>
I am not. This is a new world to me, I have been randomly buying coins. The level of expertise of the various varieties and nuances is fascinating. A few things I've learned over the last few months since picking up this new hobby:
Non-silver coins are just as fun and complex and exciting...I bought 6 Colonials (PCGS lower grades) that I find attractive and historically significant.
I tend to overpay (not looking through a price guide before making purchases).
A good idea would be to complete a set rather than randomness...I am thinking Franklin Half Dollars as a first. Hopefully, could do a complete MS set within a year without costing a fortune.
Numismatic hobbyists tend to have a bit more etiquette than some of the individuals on my other regular forums (Insurance and MMA).
-Mitch Hedberg