Not as they appear- or maybe exactly as they appear! Two slabbed $’s…
burfle23
Posts: 2,600 ✭✭✭✭✭
Originally sold in an internet venue both seller and “winner” were advised these are bad and the deal fell through.
In both cases the cert numbers were correct and active but the on-line certs had no images included; the auction history did show appearances for both with links to the auctions and images of each coin available there for comparisons.
The 1799 auction did not show the slabbed coin, but the comparison image of the coins speaks for itself!
And the reverse matches marks from another fake example, although this one looks more “worn”.
The 1889-CC did have images in the slab and again the match is pretty poor at best…
My guess is advanced collectors would not fall for these but inexperienced members of the Hobby may be more likely; one of the first places I look when reviewing an interesting certified example is at the TPG’s website reviewing the status and available images of the on-line cert!
Comments
First, thanks for the continuing detective work and educating us on things to be mindful of.
Second, I’ve taken to only looking at gold shield slabs or look to see if a TrueView exists before attempting to acquire. I always cert verify and look at the images available.
Life would be much harder for counterfeiters if every tpg slabbed coin was imaged.
I recently used NGC images to verify the authenticity of a coin that I was unsure about. If there were no images to compare I wouldnt have bought it.
PCGS trueviews are fantastic - would be great if every pcgs coin had them.
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I'm a little hopeful that the reverse images in the OP's post are switched........ otherwise, putting a Morgan reverse on an Bust dollar - well, that's a bit of a giveaway there.
Beyond that, the font and letter spacing on the insert is clearly "off". The "99" on the bust dollar is suspect to my eye. The Morgan is a little better, but the eagle's head looks weird and the mintmark has a funny look.
The future is clearly photo ID for every slabbed coin. As often as most coins get regraded, it shouldn't take long.
Fixed it! Rotated the images.
What is frightening is that there was a "winner"!
Very sad.....One must be super cautious even when purchasing slabbed coins anymore....cert numbers, pictures etc. Cheers, RickO
I wholeheartedly agree with this, even if it would add a couple of bucks to the slabbing fees.
@burfle23 great post as always.
PCGS has done a great job integrating technology and multiple layers of security into their slabs, however, they really have to start having pictures of ALL coins they slab. I understand it will be a logistical nightmare, however, it is the #1 tool to give collectors/buyers the info they need to make an informed decision. I find it invaluable to always be able to take a look at the original slabbed NGC pictures.
great post.
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Had to throw this one in for a morning chuckle...
"PCGS" Gold Shield; image isn't necessary for this clown but is available in the on-line cert:
It is interesting to me they actually tried to simulate the toning- 1st I have seen like this.
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... and add a couple of months (or more?) to the turnaround?
Another option could be a simple, hi-res image of the slab. TVs require nuancing which requires talent and time (aka $$$), Brut force imaging is much more efficient and may meet the authentication needs. TVs can remain a premium addition to a submission.
See http://www.doubledimes.com for a free online reference for US twenty-cent pieces