Is Your 1937D Lincoln Penny Real? How to Spot a Fake

Introduction

With counterfeits flooding the market, knowing the specific diagnostic points for this item is critical. The 1937D Lincoln cent is a common date that has nonetheless become a target for counterfeiters due to its collector value. Understanding how to authenticate this coin can save you from costly mistakes and help you identify genuine specimens.

Historical Significance

The Lincoln cent was first minted in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. The 1937D is a Denver-minted example from the middle of the Wheat cent era (1909-1958). While not particularly rare, coins from this period have seen increased collector interest, making authentication more important than ever.

Standard Specifications

Before examining any 1937D Lincoln cent, you need to know the official specifications:

• Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
• Weight: 3.11 grams (standard for Wheat cents)
• Diameter: 19mm
• Edge: Plain
• Magnetic properties: Non-magnetic (copper is not magnetic)

Weight Testing Methods

Weight is one of the most reliable authentication methods for copper cents. A genuine 1937D should weigh exactly 3.11 grams. Even slight deviations can indicate problems:

• Underweight (below 3.11g): May indicate excessive wear, chemical treatment, or copper plating over a lighter base metal
• Overweight (above 3.11g): Could suggest added material, corrosion, or accumulated dirt
• Significantly off-weight: Almost certainly indicates a counterfeit or altered coin

Use a digital scale accurate to at least 0.01 grams. Digital jewelry scales are inexpensive and reliable for this purpose.

Magnetic Properties Testing

Since copper is non-magnetic, a genuine 1937D Lincoln cent should not be attracted to a magnet. This simple test can quickly identify many fakes:

• No attraction: Consistent with genuine copper
• Weak attraction: May indicate copper plating over a steel core
• Strong attraction: Almost certainly indicates a steel cent or copper-plated steel counterfeit

Common magnetic fakes include copper-plated steel cents made to appear as rare dates or mint marks.

Die Markers and Design Features

Understanding the specific design elements of a genuine 1937D is crucial. Key areas to examine include:

Mint Mark Examination

The “D” mint mark on genuine 1937D cents should be:

• Clear and well-defined
• Properly sized and positioned below the date
• Consistent with other Denver-minted coins from the era

Be wary of coins where the mint mark appears:

• Too perfect or shiny (may be a transferred mark)
• Misaligned or oddly shaped
• Evidence of tooling around the mint mark area

Date and Lettering

Examine the date “1937” and lettering for:

• Proper font style consistent with 1937 production
• Even wear patterns across the surface
• Natural flow of metal in the design

Wheat Stalks and Reverse Details

The reverse features two wheat stalks. On genuine coins:

• Details should be crisp where protected by design
• Wear should be consistent with the coin’s grade
• No signs of tooling or re-engraving

Common Fakes and Alterations

Several types of counterfeits target the 1937D and similar common-date Wheat cents:

Altered Mint Marks

Common alterations include:

• Adding a “D” to a common Philadelphia (no mint mark) cent
• Changing one mint mark to another (e.g., “S” to “D”)
• Tooled or re-cut mint marks

Copper-Plated Fakes

These involve coating a base metal coin with copper:

• Steel cents plated with copper
• Zinc or other base metal cores with copper coating
• Modern copper-plated zinc cents aged to appear old

Re-cast or Transfer Dies

High-quality counterfeits using:

• Re-cast dies from genuine coins
• Transfer dies made from impressions
• Modern dies with slightly altered designs

Visual Authentication Techniques

Beyond weight and magnetism, use these visual checks:

Patina and Toning

Genuine copper cents develop natural patina over time:

• Even, natural-looking toning
• Consistent color across similar areas
• No signs of chemical treatment or artificial aging

Wear Patterns

Authentic wear shows:

• Logical progression from highest to lowest points
• Consistent wear across the coin
• No areas of suspiciously sharp detail

Edge Examination

Check the coin’s edge for:

• Consistent copper color throughout
• No signs of plating or layered metals
• Normal rim formation

Professional Testing Methods

For high-value coins or when in doubt, consider these professional methods:

Specific Gravity Test

Copper has a specific gravity of approximately 8.96. A simple water displacement test can verify composition.

Professional Grading

Third-party grading services can authenticate and grade your coin, providing:

• Professional authentication
• Condition assessment
• Encapsulation for protection

Microscopic Examination

Under magnification, experts can identify:

• Tooling marks
• Die characteristics
• Surface anomalies

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When authenticating your 1937D Lincoln cent, avoid these pitfalls:

Overlooking Simple Tests

Always perform basic weight and magnetism tests before advanced examination.

Misinterpreting Damage

Many collectors mistake post-mint damage for errors. True mint errors are relatively rare and have specific characteristics.

Relying on Appearance Alone

A coin that looks right may still be a sophisticated counterfeit. Always verify with multiple methods.

Conclusion

The 1937D Lincoln cent, while common, deserves careful authentication due to the prevalence of counterfeits. By understanding the standard specifications, performing weight and magnetism tests, and examining key design features, you can confidently identify genuine specimens. Remember that even experienced collectors sometimes need professional help, so don’t hesitate to seek expert opinion for valuable or questionable coins. With these authentication skills, you’ll be better equipped to build a genuine and valuable collection.

Related Resources

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