Is Your NEWP 1944 Henning Nickel Real? How to Spot a Fake

Historical Significance

The 1944 Henning Nickel remains one of American numismatics’ most enthralling tales – a wartime counterfeit operation with remarkable collectibility. Crafted by Francis LeRoy Henning in New Jersey, these coins circulated undetected for years, their numismatic value skyrocketing precisely because of their illicit origin. What makes them truly special? Henning’s fatal mistake: forgetting to add mint marks to his dies!

This oversight became a gift to collectors. The telltale “looped R” in TRUST on the NEWP reverse die serves as a smoking gun for authentication. That distinctive marker lets us separate genuine Hennings from mere counterfeits – turning what was criminal negligence into a collector’s dream.

Identifying Key Markers

Die Markers and Diagnostic Features

Spotting a true Henning nickel hinges on recognizing specific die characteristics. While the looped R gets deserved attention, sharp-eyed collectors also examine:

• The signature die crack slicing through TRUST’s R
• Edge punching marks visible only on mint-state specimens
• A soft, grainy strike quality that shouts “Henning!” to experienced eyes

“Fresh from the dies, these coins have a distinctively mushy, grainy texture you won’t find on genuine issues.” – dcarr, seasoned collector

Weight and Metal Composition

Authentic Hennings tip the scales at approximately 5 grams – matching genuine nickels. But here’s where counterfeiters tripped up: while real wartime nickels contained precious silver, Henning used a cheaper alloy. That compositional difference remains a key authentication clue, though verifying it requires specialized tools.

Magnetic Properties

Here’s a quick field test: genuine 1944 nickels (with their silver-manganese alloy) won’t stick to magnets. Henning’s counterfeits often will due to their different metallic recipe. Use this as preliminary evidence, but always confirm with other diagnostics – counterfeiters are getting clever!

Surface Analysis

A genuine Henning’s surfaces tell their own story. In mint condition, look for:

• Full, frosty luster that hasn’t been disturbed
• Pristine edge slide marks untouched by circulation
• That quintessential granular texture across the fields

Common Fakes and Authentication Challenges

Modern Counterfeits

With authentic Hennings now commanding multiple hundreds instead of pocket change, forgers flood the market. Their reproductions often nail the looped R but stumble on finer details like strike sharpness and patina development. Remember: exceptional eye appeal deserves extra scrutiny!

Authentication Testing Methods

Protect your collection with this verification protocol:

1. Visual inspection: Hunt for the looped R, characteristic die cracks, and soft strike
2. Weight verification: Confirm 5g ± tolerance
3. Edge examination: Mint-state specimens show distinct punching marks
4. Surface texture analysis: Graininess should be present
5. Professional grading: Off to ICG? Note they grade Hennings differently than official issues

“Though technically VF at striking, I’ve never seen an ICG-graded Henning exceed Fine.” – Sean Reynolds

Value Guide and Market Analysis

Current Market Values

Once overlooked, Hennings now command serious respect – and serious money. Circulated pieces fetch multiple hundreds, while premium examples with strong eye appeal and provenance can approach four figures. The numismatic value hinges on condition clarity of those crucial die markers.

Grading Considerations

Grading these counterfeits requires adjusted expectations. As struck, they exhibited only VF-level detail. Thus an XF45 specimen represents extraordinary preservation. Interestingly, ICG has slabbed several, though their highest certified grade remains Fine – a testament to Henning’s crude craftsmanship.

Die Variations

Not all Hennings are equal! The 1944 issues used at least two reverse dies – only one features the iconic looped R. And date matters tremendously: 1939 and 1953 counterfeits constitute rare varieties that make collectors reach for their checkbooks.

Authentication Checklist

Before acquiring a Henning nickel, run through this collector’s checklist:

• [ ] Confirm the looped R in TRUST (NEWP reverse)
• [ ] Identify die cracks through the R
• [ ] Verify 5g weight
• [ ] Inspect edges for untouched punching marks (mint condition only)
• [ ] Check for grainy surfaces – that authentic texture
• [ ] Note absent mint mark – Henning’s trademark error
• [ ] Seek professional authentication for premium specimens

Conclusion

The Henning Nickel saga continues to captivate collectors decades later – a perfect storm of wartime intrigue and numismatic detective work. As values climb and fakes proliferate, mastering authentication techniques becomes essential. Remember: that looped R, distinctive strike, and grainy texture form the holy trinity learners.

Whether you’re examining a flea-market find or curated auction lot, cherish these coins as historical artifacts. Henning’s bungled counterfeiting operation gifted us a collecting niche where provenance and story elevate mere metal. For in numismatics, sometimes the most fascinating tales come stamped right on the coin itself.

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