Is Your Old School B&Ms Real? How to Spot a Fake

Introduction

With counterfeits flooding the market, knowing the specific diagnostic points for this item is critical. The nostalgia for traditional coin shops (B&Ms) brings us to examine the authentication of vintage coins that collectors once found in those iconic rotating trays and red boxes. Whether you’re examining a classic Morgan Dollar or a vintage Walking Liberty Half Dollar, understanding the key markers of authenticity can protect your investment and preserve the integrity of your collection.

Historical Significance

The golden era of coin shops, as described by collectors who frequented establishments like Stack’s in Manhattan or local shops across America, was characterized by hands-on examination of raw coins in 2×2 holders and rotating display cases. These shops housed treasures ranging from common date silver dollars to rare early proof sets, creating an atmosphere where collectors could develop their authentication skills through direct experience. Understanding this context helps us appreciate why authentication matters – these weren’t just coins, but pieces of history that connected collectors to the past.

Identifying Key Markers

Weight and Metal Composition

Authentic vintage coins have specific weight requirements that serve as your first line of defense against counterfeits. For example, a genuine Morgan Silver Dollar should weigh 26.73 grams and contain 90% silver. Modern counterfeits often fail this basic test – they may be underweight due to cheaper metal content or overweight due to incorrect alloy mixtures. Always use a precise digital scale that measures to at least 0.01 grams when authenticating coins.

Magnetic Properties

Most authentic silver and gold coins from the classic era are non-magnetic. If a magnet sticks to your coin, it’s an immediate red flag. However, be aware that some counterfeits use non-magnetic metals that can pass this test, so magnetic testing should be combined with other methods. For copper-nickel coins like Jefferson Nickels, slight magnetic attraction might be normal due to trace metals in the alloy, but strong attraction indicates a problem.

Die Markers and Strike Characteristics

Authentic coins display specific die markers – tiny imperfections, polishing lines, or die cracks that are unique to particular dies used during minting. Study high-resolution images of authentic examples to recognize these markers. Pay attention to the sharpness of details: genuine coins have crisp, well-defined features, while counterfeits often show mushy or indistinct details. The edge reeding on silver dollars should be uniform and well-struck, not irregular or missing in spots.

Surface Analysis

Examine the coin under magnification (10x minimum) to check for casting bubbles, which appear as tiny pits or depressions on the surface. Authentic coins struck from dies won’t have these. Look for tool marks around the edges or devices, which might indicate cleaning or tooling – practices sometimes used to disguise counterfeit coins. The luster should be appropriate for the coin’s grade and era; many counterfeits have unnatural, proof-like surfaces on coins that should be circulated.

Common Fakes and Red Flags

Understanding the evolution of counterfeiting helps identify modern threats. While early counterfeits were often crude cast copies, today’s fakes use sophisticated transfer dies and can be remarkably deceptive. Common issues include:

• Incorrect mint marks that are either raised (should be incuse) or show signs of tampering
• Wrong edge details, especially on coins where edge lettering or reeding is a key identifier
• Surface porosity from casting processes
• Incorrect weight or diameter measurements
• Unnatural toning patterns that appear painted rather than natural

Testing Methods

Visual Inspection

Begin with a thorough visual examination using proper lighting and magnification. Compare your coin side-by-side with authenticated examples of the same date and mint mark. Pay special attention to the following areas:

• The date and mint mark positioning and style
• The detail in the hair, feathers, or other intricate design elements
• The quality and consistency of the edge reeding
• Any signs of casting (bubbles, irregular surfaces) or tooling

Specific Gravity Testing

This test compares the weight of your coin to its volume, helping identify incorrect metal content. While more complex than simple weighing, it’s highly effective for silver coins. The specific gravity of pure silver is 10.49 g/cm³, so a genuine Morgan Dollar should fall within a specific range when tested.

Professional Authentication

When in doubt, submit questionable coins to reputable third-party grading services like PCGS, NGC, or ANACS. These services use multiple expert authenticators and advanced technology to verify authenticity. While there’s a cost involved, it’s worthwhile for valuable or questionable pieces, especially when building a high-value collection.

Conclusion

The romance of the old coin shops, with their rotating trays and knowledgeable proprietors, reminds us why authentication matters. Each genuine coin represents a tangible connection to history – whether it’s a Morgan Dollar from the Comstock Lode era or a Walking Liberty Half Dollar from the World War II period. By mastering these authentication techniques, you’re not just protecting your investment; you’re preserving the legacy of these remarkable pieces of American history. Remember, when something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your developing expertise, use multiple testing methods, and when in doubt, seek professional opinion. The satisfaction of knowing your collection contains only genuine pieces is worth the effort of proper authentication.

Related Resources

You might also find these related articles helpful:

• How to Spot Rare Errors on Vintage Coin Shop Finds – Introduction Most collectors overlook the subtle details that transform ordinary coins into extraordinary rarities worth…
• Rediscovering the Golden Age of Coin Shops – Introduction: A Bygone Era of Numismatic Discovery Every relic tells a story. To understand the culture of coin collecti…
• The Vanishing World of Brick-and-Mortar Coin Shops: A Market Value Analysis – Introduction: The Golden Age of Coin Shops Determining the true value of vintage coins and numismatic treasures requires…