Is Your NGC 70 Real? How to Spot a Fake

Introduction

In today’s flooded market, recognizing genuine numismatic treasures requires an expert eye – especially for NGC 70 specimens representing the absolute pinnacle of perfection. These flawless coins become prime targets for sophisticated counterfeiters, making authentication knowledge your greatest defense. Join me as we explore the telltale signs separating museum-worthy pieces from cunning fakes.

Historical Significance

Earning the NGC 70 designation means achieving numismatic nirvana – a coin showing zero post-production imperfections under 5x magnification. Such specimens are the Holy Grail for collectors, commanding extraordinary premiums for their mint condition rarity. Our featured bullion coin exemplifies this perfectly, with recent forum discussions noting its dramatic value swing from $110 to $80 within days. This volatility makes authentication expertise absolutely essential before acquiring such prizes.

Weight Verification

Your precision scale becomes truth-teller when examining potential NGC 70 candidates. Authentic specimens must hit their exact weight targets like Olympic athletes – bullion coins particularly demand this rigor. I recommend using equipment measuring to 0.001 grams, comparing results against official mint specs. Pro tip: While environmental factors might explain minor variations in circulated pieces, pristine NGC 70 coins should adhere perfectly to their weight standards.

Magnetic Properties Testing

Here’s a quick field test I swear by: Grab a neodymium magnet. Genuine precious metal coins should maintain their composure – no magnetic attraction whatsoever. Counterfeiters often use magnetic base metals beneath thin plating, so test multiple areas. That cold, non-reactive demeanor you’re feeling? That’s the confidence of pure silver or gold.

Die Markers Examination

Under proper lighting with a 10x loupe, enter the fingerprint zone of numismatics. True mint marks reveal themselves through:

• Distinctive die polishing patterns
• Microscopic cracks telling the coin’s creation story
• Repunched mint marks visible as subtle “ghost” letters
• Hub doubling creating beautiful doubling effects
• Unique die varieties confirming provenance

Forum members rightly noted obverse scratches that would torpedo an MS71 grade – proof that even microscopic flaws impact eye appeal and collectibility.

Common Fakes and Their Characteristics

Let’s expose counterfeits’ dirty secrets. The usual suspects include:

Cast Counterfeits

These often feel “soft” in hand, with mushy details and grainy surfaces revealing their poured origins. Weight discrepancies frequently occur from metal shrinkage during cooling.

Transfer Die Fakes

While more convincing, these phonies lack the vibrant luster and sharp strike of genuine coins. Look for slightly flattened high points compared to authentic specimens.

Spark Erosion Counterfeits

The surface tells all here – a distinctive “orange peel” texture appears under magnification. Edges often show inconsistent reeding patterns that give away their artificial origins.

Advanced Testing Methods

For NGC 70 candidates, bring out the big guns:

Specific Gravity Test

This elegant density measurement reveals a coin’s true metallic soul. By comparing water-displaced weights against known values, you’ll expose tungsten cores hiding under gold plating.

Ultrasound Testing

Dealers’ secret weapon detects hidden voids or layered metals. The uniform density of authentic coins produces clean resonance readings no fake can duplicate.

Microscopic Analysis

At 40x magnification, genuine mint surfaces reveal their micro-textured beauty while counterfeits expose casting pits and tooling marks that shatter their illusion of perfection.

Visual Inspection Points

Let’s break down the visual poetry of a genuine specimen:

• Cartwheel luster flowing like liquid metal
• Knife-sharp strike definition on design elements
• Pristine fields free of contact marks
• Crisp, evenly spaced reeding on edges
• Natural toning patterns telling the coin’s age story

Professional Authentication Options

For high-value pieces, trust but verify through:

• NGC/PCGS encapsulation services
• Reputable dealer networks with authentication expertise
• Show-floor consultations with numismatic experts
• XRF analysis verifying exact metal composition

Market Considerations

Bullion’s rollercoaster nature demands smart authentication strategies, as forum members observed:

“Why mail it back when you can have NGC verify it at the next show? Their guarantee protects your investment without the shipping gamble during price dips.”

This wisdom highlights how show-floor authentication preserves both value and peace of mind during volatile markets.

Conclusion

Mastering NGC 70 authentication transforms you from collector to connoisseur. Each weight measurement, magnetic test, and microscopic examination brings you closer to numismatic truth. Remember – that microscopic scratch or unusual patina could mean the difference between a bullion piece and a museum-quality treasure.

The path to authentication mastery requires patience, but rewards you with the ultimate collector’s thrill: Holding genuine history in your hands. Document your findings meticulously, and when facing a questionable piece, never hesitate to consult fellow experts. After all, in our world, knowledge isn’t just power – it’s preservation.