My Deep Dive into Another Bad Coin in a Good Holder: The 1806 Half Cent Chronicles

I’ve been keeping an eye on a troubling wave of counterfeit coins, especially the 1806 half cent, and my latest eBay find really drives home how persistent this problem is. Having spent years examining coin authenticity, I find these cases both concerning and surprisingly educational for fellow collectors.

The Counterfeit Half Cent Problem

What I’ve uncovered shows a pattern dating back to 2008, with fakes originating from College Station, Texas. Since 2015, I’ve personally identified 16 fake 1806 half cents – and get this – six were sitting in legitimate third-party grading (TPG) holders. These counterfeits come in two main versions: one with an original die flaw, and another where they tried fixing a cut over the reverse “A”. The artificial toning on some, like an AU-58 piece I handled, is frighteningly convincing – almost too perfect compared to natural aging. It’s a wake-up call that even accessible coins face sophisticated fakery.

How They Slip Past Grading Companies

Many collectors ask me how these fakes get through companies like NGC. Here’s the thing: they look incredibly authentic when examined alone, without comparing them to genuine examples. I’ve verified all the holders are real, meaning the grading process itself failed. While TPGs update certifications when notified, the fact that recent counterfeits still make it through reveals a real vulnerability. This is why we collectors need to stay alert – always verify those online certifications and speak up when something seems off.

Practical Tips for Spotting Fakes

Here’s what I’ve learned that might help protect your collection:

• Focus on reverse details: Pay special attention to circled flaws I’ve identified, like oddities in the wreath or lettering – they’re dead giveaways when placed next to authentic coins.
• Compare die states: Since these fakes have variations, check updated EAC references or my Proxiblog notes to spot inconsistencies.
• Watch out for artificial toning: If the color looks unnaturally even or bright, especially on early coppers, be suspicious. Real toning develops unevenly over decades.
• Don’t think rare coins are safer: As one collector told me, counterfeiters fake any date they please – they’ve created entire counterfeit sets like Seated Dollars. Even common dates like the 1806 half cent get targeted despite being relatively available.

Market Observations and Why Half Cents?

Why would anyone fake lowly half cents? Simple – precisely because they’re overlooked. Most collectors chase higher denominations, making these easier to pass off. And with scarcer dates like the 1805 (that’s the C-1 stemless wreath variety, the most common type for 1804-1806), fakes can bring shockingly high prices. This reflects a bigger market issue: as demand grows for early American coins, so does fraud. I’ve seen similar tricks with other series – proof that constant vigilance is part of collecting today.

Through all this, I’m reminded that coin collecting is both thrilling and high-stakes. By sharing what I’ve found, I hope it helps you examine purchases more carefully, especially online. Stay curious, stay skeptical, and keep learning – it’s your best protection against that next “bad coin in a good holder.”