Is Your Canada 1858 20 Cents Real? How to Spot a Fake

Historical Significance

The Canada 1858 20 Cents stands as a numismatic treasure, marking a pivotal moment in Canadian coinage history. These coins were among the first decimal issues struck for the Province of Canada, signaling a bold break from the old pounds, shillings, and pence system. Minted at the Royal Mint in London, their limited mintage has made them highly coveted by collectors today.

Identifying Key Markers

Authenticating a Canada 1858 20 Cents requires a sharp eye for detail. The most prized variety is the re-engraved 5, where the numeral 5 in the date shows clear signs of strengthening or correction during the minting process. This die variety can dramatically boost a coin’s numismatic value.

Die cracks also serve as crucial diagnostic tools. A die crack at the 5-6 o’clock position, as mentioned in collector discussions, is a common trait of this issue. While die cracks don’t directly affect grade, they’re essential for confirming authenticity.

Weight and Composition

Authentic specimens should weigh approximately 4.63 grams and be composed of sterling silver (92.5% silver). Any significant weight deviation is a red flag. A precise digital scale measuring to at least 0.01 grams is indispensable for this test.

Magnetic Properties

Since these coins are crafted from sterling silver, they should show no magnetic attraction. A strong magnet can quickly weed out potential counterfeits. If the coin is drawn to the magnet, it likely contains ferrous metals and is not genuine.

Die Markers and Varieties

Beyond the re-engraved 5 variety, collectors should familiarize themselves with other die varieties. Confusion sometimes arises about whether the ‘S’ in ‘Cents’ is re-engraved, but it’s clarified that it’s actually the ‘5’ that shows re-engraving. Understanding these nuances is vital for proper authentication.

Common die markers include:

• Re-engraved numerals in the date
• Die cracks in specific locations
• Repunched mint marks or letters
• Die chips or breaks

Common Fakes and Counterfeits

With rising values, counterfeiters have grown increasingly sophisticated. Common fakes include:

• Coins struck from altered dies
• Cast counterfeits with poor detail
• Contemporary counterfeits from the 19th century
• Altered dates or mint marks

Discussions among collectors note that a coin appearing cleaned could be a concern. However, if cleaned, it would have to be an exceptionally good cleaning job, suggesting the original luster may still be present.

Testing Methods

Beyond weight and magnetism, several other tests can help authenticate these coins:

Visual Inspection

Examine the coin under magnification for signs of casting (pitting, lack of sharpness) or tooling (tool marks, altered details). Pay special attention to the lettering and numerals, as counterfeits often show irregularities in these areas.

Specific Gravity Test

This test involves weighing the coin in air and then in water to determine its density. Silver has a specific gravity of approximately 10.5, which should match the calculated specific gravity of the coin.

Die Variety Attribution

Consult specialized references to determine if the coin matches known die varieties. The re-engraved 5 variety mentioned in discussions is a prime example of a variety that can significantly impact value.

Professional Authentication

For high-value specimens, professional authentication by services like ICCS (International Coin Certification Service) is recommended. These services use advanced techniques and have extensive databases of known varieties and counterfeits.

Grade Considerations

Collector discussions reveal some debate about the grade of certain coins, with estimates ranging from MS (Mint State) to potentially a 62 or 64 on the Sheldon scale. It’s noted that ICCS was particularly strict on grading silver coins, especially dimes and twenty-cent pieces, due to the personal collecting interests of a former grader.

Key factors in grading include:

• Luster and surface preservation
• Strike quality
• Presence of marks or hairlines
• Die state (early or late state)

Conclusion

The Canada 1858 20 Cents is a fascinating and valuable coin that demands careful authentication. By understanding the key markers, being aware of common counterfeits, and using appropriate testing methods, collectors can protect themselves from fraud and ensure they’re acquiring genuine specimens. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to Canadian numismatics, the thrill of finding an authentic, high-grade example of this historic coin makes the authentication process well worth the effort.

Remember, when in doubt, consult with experienced collectors or professional authenticators. The numismatic community is generally very helpful and can provide valuable insights into the authentication of these and other rare coins.

Related Resources

You might also find these related articles helpful:

• The Hidden Treasures of Canada’s 1858 20 Cents: Spotting Rare Errors That Could Be Worth Thousands – Introduction: The Devil is in the Details Most people look right past the tiny details that can turn a common item into …
• The Hidden History Behind Canada’s 1858 20 Cents: A Window into Colonial Currency – Introduction: Every Relic Tells a Story Every relic tells a story. To understand this item, we have to look at the era i…
• What is the Real Value of Canada 1858 20 Cents in Today’s Market? – Historical Significance The 1858 20-cent piece occupies a revered position in Canadian numismatic history as one of the …