My Deep Dive into the Exploding Problem of Counterfeit PCGS Slabs

As a longtime coin collector, I’ve watched the troubling increase in fake PCGS slabs with real concern. What started as occasional bad copies has become sophisticated fakes that challenge even experienced eyes. This isn’t just about spotting counterfeits—it’s about preserving trust in our hobby, and we need practical solutions now.

Spotting Fake Slabs: What I Look For

Through years of handling coins, I’ve learned that spotting fakes comes down to noticing small details. Here’s my personal checklist that’s saved me from costly mistakes:

• Label text: With Morgans, remember ‘Morgan’ only appears on genuine labels for 1921-P coins. Seeing it elsewhere? Huge warning sign.
• Logo placement: Always check for that PCGS logo in the lower right corner—fakes often mess this up.
• Barcode test: Try scanning it! Real slabs link to PCGS verification, while fakes often won’t scan at all.
• Font feel: Trust your gut when letters look slightly “off”—that instinct has served me well.
• Coin-specific tells: For Morgans, compare to known VAMs. That slash across the eagle’s breast on CC coins? Classic fake giveaway.

Keep photos of authentic slabs on your phone—I’ve caught three fakes this year alone by doing quick comparisons.

How This Affects All of Us

This wave of counterfeits hits our community where it hurts. New collectors especially rely on slabs for confidence—I certainly did when starting out. Now? The learning curve feels steep enough to discourage newcomers. When you’re worrying more about authentication than enjoying coins, the fun drains away fast. One collector friend put it perfectly: “When you’re second-guessing every slab, it starts feeling less like a hobby and more like detective work.”

Protecting Your Collection: My Approach

Here’s how I safeguard my collection these days:

• Study relentlessly: Live with your Red Book and online guides. Nothing beats handling real coins at shows to train your eye.
• Cultivate dealer relationships: Stick with sellers you’ve vetted over time—my trusted network has prevented several bad purchases.
• Visual comparisons: Always ask for side-by-side images of known fakes versus real slabs. Seeing differences beats reading about them.
• Push for better security: We should demand grading services adopt QR codes or embedded features to stay ahead of counterfeiters.
• Marketplace vigilance: Watch eBay like a hawk—I report suspicious listings weekly. If a deal seems too good, it usually is.

Even after 30 years, I still double-check every slab. We all make mistakes—I’ve bought two fakes that taught expensive lessons.

My Take on Where We Go From Here

Hearing from collectors burned by fake Morgans reminds me how crucial education is. It takes effort, but sharing knowledge protects our community. I’m hopeful that by documenting fakes and swapping stories, we can fight back. If this continues, we might return to older collecting ways—relying on personal expertise and trusted dealers rather than slabs. For now, I’ll keep talking about this because protecting our passion means looking out for each other. What tricks have saved you from fakes? I’d love to hear your experiences.