Is Your Morgan Dollar Real? How to Spot a Fake

Introduction

With counterfeits flooding the market, knowing the specific diagnostic points for this item is critical. Morgan Silver Dollars represent one of the most collected series in American numismatics, making them prime targets for counterfeiters. As collectors share their latest acquisitions in forums, the need for proper authentication becomes increasingly important.

Historical Significance

The Morgan Silver Dollar, minted from 1878 to 1904 and again in 1921, stands as one of America’s most iconic coins. These large silver dollars were produced at five different mints: Philadelphia (no mint mark), New Orleans (O), San Francisco (S), Carson City (CC), and Denver (D) for the 1921 issue. The series includes numerous rarities, with the 1889-CC being particularly noteworthy as evidenced by recent collector acquisitions.

Weight and Metal Composition

Authentic Morgan Dollars should weigh exactly 26.73 grams and measure 38.1mm in diameter. The coin consists of 90% silver and 10% copper, giving it a total silver content of 0.77344 troy ounces. Any significant deviation from this weight should immediately raise suspicion.

When examining a potential counterfeit, use a precision scale that measures to at least 0.01 grams. Modern counterfeiters sometimes get the dimensions correct but struggle with the precise weight due to differences in alloy composition. A fake might weigh anywhere from 25 to 28 grams, depending on the materials used.

Magnetic Properties Test

Since Morgan Dollars are composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, they should not be attracted to magnets. This is one of the simplest yet most effective tests for authentication. If a magnet sticks to your Morgan Dollar, it’s definitely a fake.

Some sophisticated counterfeits use non-magnetic metals that mimic the appearance of silver, so passing the magnetic test doesn’t guarantee authenticity. However, failing it confirms the coin is counterfeit.

Die Markers and Design Details

Authentic Morgan Dollars exhibit specific die characteristics that are difficult for counterfeiters to replicate accurately. Pay close attention to:

• The fine detail in Liberty’s hair and coronet
• The sharpness of the eagle’s feathers on the reverse
• The clarity of the cotton and wheat wreath
• The precision of the lettering and date

Common die markers to examine include the position of the date relative to the denticles, the shape and size of mint marks (for those bearing them), and any repunched dates or overdates that are known for specific years.

Common Fakes and Their Characteristics

Counterfeiters typically focus on dates and mint marks that command premium prices. The 1889-CC, mentioned by several collectors in recent acquisitions, is a frequent target for counterfeiting due to its value and popularity.

Common fake characteristics include:

• Soft or mushy details, especially in the hair and feather areas
• Incorrect font styles for the date and lettering
• Improper relief or depth in the design elements
• Incorrect edge reeding (too few or too many reeds)
• Wrong metallic composition resulting in incorrect weight

Chinese counterfeiters have become increasingly sophisticated, producing fakes that can fool even experienced collectors at first glance. These often involve genuine common-date Morgans that have been altered to appear as rare dates.

Testing Methods for Authentication

Visual Inspection

Begin with a thorough visual examination using a 10x loupe or microscope. Look for:

• Tool marks around the date or mint mark
• Evidence of re-engraving or alteration
• Inconsistent toning or surface texture
• Cast rather than struck surfaces (often showing bubbles or pimples)

Specific Gravity Test

This test compares the coin’s weight to its volume to determine density. Silver has a specific gravity of 10.49 g/cm³. To perform this test:

1. Weigh the coin precisely on a digital scale
2. Measure the volume by water displacement
3. Calculate the specific gravity and compare to known standards

Professional Authentication

For valuable specimens, professional authentication by PCGS, NGC, ANACS, or ICG is recommended. As mentioned in the forum discussion, early PCGS holders (known as “rattlers”) from 1986 with low certification numbers are particularly desirable to collectors.

The forum notes that a common date 1881-S PCGS MS-63 Morgan in a first-generation white rattler holder sold for over $119,000, highlighting the premium these early slabs command. The specific certification number 1080017 represents one of the earliest slabs produced by PCGS in February 1986.

Die Varieties and VAM Numbers

Morgan Dollars have been extensively studied for die varieties, cataloged under the VAM (Van Allen-Mallis) numbering system. These varieties can significantly affect a coin’s value. Key diagnostics include:

• Repunched mint marks
• Overdates
• Die cracks and breaks
• Shifted or doubled designs

Collectors should familiarize themselves with the major VAM varieties for their specific dates and mints, as counterfeits rarely replicate these subtle die characteristics accurately.

Slab Authentication

For certified coins, slab authentication is crucial. Early PCGS holders have specific characteristics:

• Generation 1.0 (very early February 1986): Smooth white label with crude dot-matrix printing, serial numbers starting around 1080001
• Generation 1.1 (improved, about one week later): Still white label but with improved printing, serial numbers up to approximately 1082378

Counterfeit slabs have become increasingly common, so examine the holder’s quality, label printing, and certification number carefully.

Conclusion

Morgan Silver Dollars remain one of the most rewarding series for collectors, offering historical significance, aesthetic beauty, and investment potential. However, the prevalence of counterfeits makes proper authentication essential. By understanding weight specifications, magnetic properties, die markers, and common fake characteristics, collectors can protect themselves from costly mistakes.

Whether you’re building a date set in the 63-64 grade range as mentioned by one collector, seeking key dates like the 1889-CC, or collecting early slabbed specimens, knowledge is your best defense against counterfeits. When in doubt, seek professional authentication and always purchase from reputable dealers who guarantee their merchandise.

Remember that the thrill of the hunt and the satisfaction of owning genuine pieces of American history make the extra authentication steps worthwhile. Happy collecting!

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