Coin News

Anybody can detect counterfeit U.S. coins using five simple, inexpensive tools.
A Simple Magnet
How to use: You will need a strong magnet to detect small amounts of iron. Hold the magnet near the coin and see if they attract, even a little bit. If the magnet sticks to a U.S. coin, the coin is virtually certain to be a counterfeit. (Note that Canada has been using steel in their coin blanks for decades, so this test has no meaning for many Canadian coins.)
A Gram Scale Accurate to at Least One Tenth Gram
How to use: Make sure your scale can weigh to the tenth of a gram (0.10) or better. Do not use diet scales that weigh whole grams because they are not accurate enough. Place the coin on the scale and then compare the weight to the known proper weight standard for that coin. If it is off by more than 1%, the coin is a suspected counterfeit.
A Caliper Accurate to the Hundredth of an Inch
How to use: Slide the caliper jaws to the closed position and calibrate it to zero (usually by pressing a “set” or “zero” button.) Then slowly slide the jaws open until they are touching the edges of the coin across from each other. Make sure the coin is snug between the jaws (but not too tight) and read the result. Compare your measurement to known U.S. Mint standards for that coin. If the coin is too small, it is a suspected fake.
A High-Powered Magnifier or Loupe
How to use: Hold the coin in one hand, and the magnifier in the other. Move the coin around to inspect its surface, looking for signs of bubbles or pimples on the surface, or seams or file marks on the edge. Also look for characteristics normal for that type of coin by comparing to a known genuine specimen. “Soapy” looking or bumpy surfaces can be a sign of a counterfeit.
A Reference of Standards for U.S. Coin Types
How to use: Weigh and measure you coin, and compare your findings to known specifications. If they are off by more than 1% (either too heavy or too light) your coin is a suspected counterfeit.
About.com Coins: What’s Hot Now