Why Are Cherrypickers Guides Selling for So Much? My Numismatic Deep Dive
June 28, 2025My Insights on the 1903 Barber Dime
June 28, 2025
I’ve been tracking the alarming increase in counterfeit PCGS slabs flooding the market, and it’s clear this problem is growing at a frightening pace. As a numismatist, I’ve seen firsthand how these fakes target unsuspecting collectors, especially with high-demand coins like Morgan dollars. Here’s my deep dive into what I’ve learned and how you can protect your collection.
Spotting Fake Slabs: Key Red Flags
In my experience, identifying counterfeit holders starts with scrutinizing the details. I’ve examined numerous fake slabs, and common giveaways include:
- Label inconsistencies: For instance, ‘Morgan’ only appears on genuine PCGS labels for 1921-P Morgans—if you see it elsewhere, it’s a red flag. Also, the PCGS logo in the lower right corner of the obverse should be precise; fakes often have it slightly off.
- Barcode issues: Many counterfeit slabs have barcodes that don’t scan properly when checked against PCGS databases. I always recommend scanning them as a quick test.
- Font discrepancies: The text on fake labels is often close but not quite right—look for subtle differences in spacing or style that scream forgery.
- Coin-specific tells: When inspecting the coin inside, compare it to known genuine varieties like VAMs. For Morgans, watch for details like the ‘slash’ across the eagle’s breast on reverses, which is missing in many fakes.
These signs have saved me from costly mistakes, and I urge you to make attribution a habit—start with the holder before even looking at the coin.
The Impact on Our Hobby: A Collector’s Concern
I worry deeply about how this counterfeiting wave affects collectors, particularly casual ones. Fifteen years ago, I was that person—trusting slabs blindly and feeling secure. Now, I realize that relying solely on third-party grading services isn’t enough; it forces us all to become instant experts. This barrier could shrink the hobby, as new enthusiasts might get discouraged by the steep learning curve. It’s a sad reality that some fakes are so convincing they’ve fooled dealers and even slipped past TPG graders, turning collecting into a high-stakes gamble. My own journey to savvy collecting took over a decade, filled with costly lessons, and I fear others won’t stick around for that.
Empowering Yourself: Practical Advice for Authenticity
Based on what I’ve observed, here’s how you can build your defenses against fakes:
- Educate yourself: Dive into resources like the Red Book or online databases to learn coin specifics. Knowledge is your best shield—start with attribution guides for key series like Morgans.
- Leverage technology: Advocate for innovations like QR codes with anti-counterfeit measures in slabs. Until then, use apps to verify barcodes and cross-reference with PCGS certifications.
- Trust but verify: Build relationships with reputable dealers who have proven track records. If something seems off, walk away—I’ve learned that gut feelings often save collections.
- Visual learning: Whenever possible, study side-by-side comparisons of fake and genuine slabs. I’m compiling visual guides myself to highlight differences, as this hands-on approach accelerates learning.
Remember, it’s not about being perfect overnight; start small, focus on one coin type, and grow your expertise gradually.
Moving Forward: Hope in Vigilance
Despite the challenges, I’m optimistic. The numismatic community is resilient, and experts are tirelessly flagging fakes—like those constant relistings on auction sites. My advice? Stay proactive: report suspicious listings, share knowledge with fellow collectors, and consider creating educational content, such as PDF guides on spotting counterfeits. Together, we can push back against this tide and keep our hobby thriving for generations.
