Is Your 1959 Colis Washington Restrike Real? Authentication Guide for Steel Impressions

The Enigma of the Colis 1959 Steel Restrike

With counterfeits flooding the market, knowing the specific diagnostic points for this item is critical. The 1959 Colis restrike of the Washington Born Virginia medal has become one of the most intriguing and controversial pieces in American exonumia collecting. This authentication guide will help you determine whether your steel impression is genuine or a modern fabrication.

Historical Context of the Colis Restrikes

In 1959, collector and dealer John Collis produced restrikes of the Washington Born Virginia medal using the original dies. According to documentation in The Numismatist, these restrikes were created through a steel-to-steel transfer process, where new dies were made from the original. The silver mintage was reported as 27 pieces, though some sources cite 22. These restrikes were subsequently offered for sale in the December 1961 issue of The Numismatist.

Physical Characteristics and Testing Methods

Magnetic Properties

The first critical test for any alleged 1959 Colis steel restrike is magnetic attraction. As confirmed in collector discussions, authentic pieces made from steel will exhibit strong magnetic properties. Use a powerful rare-earth magnet to test your piece – if it doesn’t attract, it’s immediately suspect.

Weight Analysis

Steel impressions should have a specific gravity consistent with carbon steel, typically ranging from 7.75 to 8.05 g/cm³. Use a precise digital scale to weigh your piece and compare it against known examples. Significant deviations in weight may indicate a different metal composition or that the piece is a modern reproduction.

Surface Texture Examination

Authentic steel restrikes often display a granular texture in the recessed areas, particularly on Washington’s bust. This granular quality results from the steel-to-steel transfer process. However, collectors have noted that some genuine pieces show polished fields while retaining texture in the design elements. Examine your piece under magnification (10x loupe minimum) to assess the consistency of this texture.

Die Markers and Diagnostic Features

Crack Patterns

One of the most telling diagnostic features is the crack pattern. Authentic pieces reportedly show a distinctive crack that starts between the “O” and “R” of the word “Born,” continues through Washington’s hairline, extends across his shoulder, and passes through the “B” in “Feb.” This crack pattern suggests either die deterioration or stress from the transfer process.

“Barcode” Markings

Several collectors have reported finding unusual markings on the side of their steel bars that resemble barcodes. These marks could be production artifacts from the original manufacturing process or later additions. Document the exact location and appearance of any such markings with high-resolution photography.

Common Fakes and Modern Reproductions

Material Substitution

The most common counterfeit approach involves using non-magnetic metals like zinc or pot metal, then plating them to mimic the appearance of steel. Always perform the magnet test first – if it fails, the piece is almost certainly fake.

Die Transfer Fakes

Modern counterfeits may use transfer dies made from photographs or scans of authentic pieces. These often lack the subtle undercuts and depth variations present in pieces made from original dies. Look for signs of casting rather than striking, such as rounded edges and loss of fine detail.

Surface Treatment Discrepancies

Many fakes show inconsistent patination or artificial aging. Authentic steel restrikes typically display a natural gray patina that develops over decades. Be wary of pieces with uneven toning, bright spots, or signs of chemical treatment.

Authentication Testing Methods

Magnetic Testing

Use a rare-earth magnet (neodymium) for the most sensitive test. The magnet should cling firmly to authentic steel pieces. Test multiple areas of the piece, as some fakes use magnetic metal only in certain sections.

Specific Gravity Test

• Weight the piece in air (W)
• Weight it suspended in water (W₀)
• Calculate: Specific Gravity = W / (W – W₀)

Compare your result to the known specific gravity of carbon steel (7.75-8.05).

Microscopic Examination

Examine the surface under 10x to 30x magnification. Authentic steel restrikes show subtle flow lines and directional patterns from the striking process. Fakes often display casting bubbles, mold lines, or uniform surface texture.

Edge Examination

The edges of authentic pieces should show signs of the steel bar stock from which they were made. Look for mill marks, slight irregularities, or evidence of machining. Perfectly smooth, uniform edges may indicate a modern fabrication.

Provenance and Documentation

Documentation significantly increases confidence in authenticity. Look for:

• Original receipts or documentation from the 1959-1961 period
• Provenance linking the piece to known collections or dealers
• Professional authentication from reputable third-party grading services

Be extremely cautious of pieces with vague or unverifiable histories, especially those appearing on online marketplaces without supporting documentation.

Current Market Considerations

The market for these pieces remains active, with examples appearing on platforms like eBay. However, the presence of potential fakes makes authentication essential before any purchase. Recent discussions among collectors suggest that some pieces may be later productions using copy dies or hubs, rather than the original 1959 restrikes.

Expert Consultation

For high-value pieces or when authentication remains uncertain, consultation with experts like John Kraljevich, a recognized authority on early American numismatics, is advisable. Professional authenticators can provide detailed analysis using advanced techniques not available to most collectors.

Conclusion: The Value of Authentication

The 1959 Colis Washington Born Virginia steel restrike represents a fascinating chapter in American exonumia history. Whether your piece is an original restrike, a later production using copy dies, or a modern fake, proper authentication is essential. By carefully examining magnetic properties, weight, die markers, surface texture, and provenance, you can make an informed assessment of your piece’s authenticity and historical significance.

Remember that even experts continue to debate certain aspects of these pieces, particularly regarding later productions. When in doubt, seek professional authentication before making significant purchase decisions or investment commitments.

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