Is Your Manchester NH Coin Show Find Real? Expert Authentication Guide

Historical Significance

The Manchester NH Coin Show has earned its reputation as one of New England’s premier regional events, attracting collectors and dealers from across the Northeast. As one forum participant observed, “this one and the NENA show in Milford, MA are two of the best regional shows in New England.” These gatherings represent invaluable opportunities for collectors to examine coins firsthand, network with fellow enthusiasts, and potentially acquire significant pieces for their collections.

Why Authentication Matters

With counterfeit coins flooding the market, knowing the specific diagnostic points for coins found at shows like Manchester is absolutely critical. The thrill of discovering a potentially valuable coin at a regional show can quickly turn to disappointment if that coin turns out to be a counterfeit. Authentication expertise has become an essential skill for serious collectors, particularly when dealing with high-value items or coins from uncertain sources.

Weight Verification: The First Line of Defense

Weight is one of the most reliable initial indicators of authenticity. For U.S. coins, each denomination and type has specific weight tolerances established by the U.S. Mint. When examining a coin from the Manchester show or any other source:

• Use a precision scale accurate to at least 0.01 grams
• Compare the measured weight against official specifications
• Be aware that counterfeiters often get the weight wrong, especially with precious metal coins
• Remember that wear can reduce a coin’s weight over time, but significant deviations suggest problems

For example, a genuine Morgan silver dollar should weigh 26.73 grams ±0.097 grams. A coin weighing significantly outside this range warrants further investigation.

Magnetic Properties: Testing Metal Composition

Magnetic testing provides valuable insights into a coin’s metal composition. Most genuine U.S. coins are non-magnetic, with notable exceptions:

• 1943 steel cents (intentionally magnetic)
• Some 1942-1945 Jefferson nickels (35% silver, non-magnetic)
• Modern copper-plated zinc cents (non-magnetic)

To perform a magnetic test:

1. Use a strong rare-earth magnet
2. Observe whether the coin is attracted to the magnet
3. Note the strength of attraction if present
4. Compare results against known standards for the coin type

A coin that should be non-magnetic but shows strong magnetic attraction is almost certainly counterfeit or altered.

Die Markers and Design Details

Die markers are unique characteristics imparted by individual dies used to strike coins. These can include:

• Die scratches or gouges
• Polishing marks
• Die cracks or breaks
• Repunched mint marks
• Doubled dies

Common die markers for specific varieties include:

“I have some coins to submit to ANACS.” – Sean Reynolds

This comment highlights the importance of professional authentication services. ANACS (American Numismatic Association Certification Service) specializes in identifying die varieties and authenticating coins using advanced techniques and extensive reference databases.

Key Diagnostic Points by Series

Different coin series have specific diagnostic points to check:

Morgan Dollars

• Feather details on the eagle’s breast
• Hair detail above Liberty’s ear
• Mint mark style and placement
• Reverse wreath details

Lincoln Cents

• Date style and spacing
• Wheat ear details on reverse
• Lincoln’s facial features
• Lettering sharpness

Buffalo Nickels

• Indian head portrait details
• Buffalo horn and tail details
• Mound and denomination on reverse

Common Fakes to Watch For

Counterfeiters target specific coins based on value and demand. At regional shows like Manchester, be particularly cautious with:

High-Value Key Dates

Coins like the 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent, 1916-D Mercury dime, and 1893-S Morgan dollar are frequently counterfeited. Common issues include:

• Altered mint marks (adding or modifying existing ones)
• Cast counterfeits with poor detail
• Spark erosion counterfeits with pebbly surfaces
• Transfer die counterfeits that can be quite deceptive

Common Counterfeiting Techniques

Understanding how fakes are made helps in identification:

1. Cast Counterfeits: Made by creating a mold from a genuine coin, resulting in rounded details and surface irregularities
2. Spark Erosion: Uses electrical discharge to create dies, producing a characteristic pebbly texture
3. Transfer Dies: Creates dies from genuine coins, often producing high-quality fakes that require expert examination
4. Alterations: Modifying genuine common-date coins to resemble rare varieties

Testing Methods and Tools

Proper authentication requires appropriate tools and techniques:

Essential Equipment

• Loupe or microscope: 10x to 30x magnification for examining details
• Precision scale: Accurate to 0.01 grams
• Magnet: Rare-earth magnet for magnetic testing
• Calipers: For measuring diameter and thickness
• Specific gravity kit: For testing precious metal content
• UV light: For detecting certain counterfeit characteristics

Advanced Testing Techniques

For valuable coins, consider these additional tests:

1. Specific Gravity Testing: Measures density to verify precious metal content
2. Die Variety Attribution: Using reference books and databases to match known dies
3. Surface Analysis: Examining luster, toning, and surface characteristics
4. Edge Examination: Checking reeding patterns and edge characteristics

Professional Authentication Services

When in doubt, professional authentication provides certainty:

“I have some coins to submit to ANACS.” – Sean Reynolds

Professional grading services like ANACS, PCGS, and NGC offer:

• Expert examination by multiple specialists
• Advanced testing equipment
• Encapsulation in tamper-evident holders
• Market acceptance and liquidity

The cost of authentication is minimal compared to the risk of purchasing counterfeits, especially for valuable coins.

Red Flags at Coin Shows

When attending shows like the Manchester NH event, watch for these warning signs:

• Dealers unwilling to allow close examination
• Prices significantly below market value
• Coins in non-standard holders or packaging
• Reluctance to provide return privileges
• High-pressure sales tactics

The forum discussion mentioned that “Dealer setup yesterday on Thur brought a bunch of new dealer faces and the hotel was packed last night,” indicating a vibrant show with many participants. This diversity is positive, but also means collectors should be extra vigilant.

Conclusion: Building Authentication Expertise

Authentication expertise develops through study, experience, and careful examination of both genuine and counterfeit coins. The Manchester NH Coin Show and similar regional events provide excellent opportunities to handle coins, compare specimens, and learn from experienced collectors and dealers.

Remember these key principles:

1. Know the specifications for the coins you collect
2. Use appropriate testing methods systematically
3. Be aware of common counterfeiting techniques
4. When in doubt, seek professional authentication
5. Trust your instincts if something seems wrong

The numismatic community’s collective knowledge and vigilance help protect the hobby from counterfeiters. By developing authentication skills and sharing information, collectors ensure the integrity of the market and preserve the historical significance of genuine coins for future generations.

As one collector noted about the Manchester show, “Hope to see you!” – the numismatic community thrives on shared knowledge and mutual support in the ongoing effort to identify genuine coins and expose counterfeits.

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