Die Break or Die Clash? My Journey in Coin Defect Detection
July 10, 2025My Deep Dive into the Alleged 1911 ‘Weak D’ $5 Indian Half Eagle Discovery
July 10, 2025
Honestly, I’ve collected coins longer than I care to admit, and this avalanche of fake mint errors online has finally pushed me over the edge. It makes my blood boil scrolling through Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and Craigslist seeing nonsense listings like that “IN COD WE TRUST” abomination. This isn’t just irritating – it’s toxic for our hobby and literally turns my stomach.
This Fake Error Plague
After decades of studying coins, the recent flood of counterfeit errors shocks me. Genuine mint mistakes – like coins struck on wrong planchets or true die varieties – are rare treasures. I’ve got a verified nickel struck on a cent planchet worth about $300. But now? Scammers pump out fakes faster than you can say “counterfeit.” They slap on absurd AI-written descriptions like “unique addition to any collection” and demand insane prices. Feels like PT Barnum was right about suckers.
Separating Real Errors From Junk
In my experience, spotting fakes comes down to knowledge and a skeptical eye. Real errors have verifiable traits, while fakes usually scream fraud if you know the signs:
- Authentication is non-negotiable: Demand PCGS or NGC slabs. No attribution? Walk away immediately.
- Scrutinize like a hawk: Zoom in on photos for unnatural tool marks or mismatched fonts – anything that looks garage-made. That “IN COD WE TRUST” disaster? Obvious fabrication.
- Smell the AI stench: Generic descriptions like “super rare” or incoherent jargon are instant red flags. Real sellers give specific historical details.
- Learn real errors: Study authenticated examples through trusted YouTube channels – I’ve learned tons from fellow collectors’ breakdowns.
Remember: true errors are scarce. If you’re seeing dozens of the same “rare” coin, it’s guaranteed junk.
How Not to Get Ripped Off
To protect both your wallet and sanity, I now operate by “trust nothing, verify everything”:
- Assume every listing is fake: That’s my starting point until proven otherwise. Cross-check with collector forums or dealer friends.
- Never skip professional eyes: I’ve watched collectors lose hundreds by skipping this. Take potential buys to a reputable dealer for grading.
- Stick to trusted channels: Established auction houses and verified sellers only. Avoid free listing sites where scams multiply like roaches.
- Spot the con-artist tells: Run from sellers with awful grammar, over-the-top claims, or fantasy prices. If it reads like a carnival barker’s pitch, it’s garbage.
This approach has saved me countless times and kept my collection legit.
What This Does to Our Hobby
This scam tsunami isn’t just annoying – it’s gutting the soul of coin collecting. After 50 years in this game, I’m horrified how these cons scare off newcomers. Kids might avoid numismatics thinking it’s all frauds and “human-pukes” (yes, I saw that listing). Breaks my heart because coins are history you hold in your hand, not lottery tickets. AI-generated hype makes every common cent seem priceless. We must fight back with education and integrity to save our community.
Keeping the Passion Alive
Despite the trash, I’ll never quit this hobby. Focus on learning: study real errors, hit coin shows, connect with honest collectors. Stay sharp and skeptical – together we can outsmart these crooks. Because at its core, numismatics is about love for coins, not quick cash. Don’t let the scammers steal that joy.
