Is Your Paramount Dollar Real? Authentication Guide for Collectors

Introduction: Why Paramount Dollar Authentication Matters Now

Counterfeits have become alarmingly sophisticated, making authentication skills essential for every collector. Paramount Dollars – especially those originating from the legendary Redfield hoard – represent a cornerstone of American numismatic history. Their popularity makes them prime targets, which is why knowing these diagnostic features is your best defense against fakes.

The Paramount Dollar Legacy: A Collector’s Dream

Let’s travel back to the 1970s when Paramount International Coin Corporation changed collecting forever by acquiring LaVere Redfield’s incredible hoard. Picture this: a reclusive Nevada investor storing over 400,000 silver dollars in his basement! When Paramount brought these coins to market, it created unprecedented opportunity for collectors.

Here’s where it gets fascinating: Paramount’s grading scale differed dramatically from today’s standards. As one forum contributor perfectly put it, “Their ’60’ could be what we’d call MS63 or MS64 now!” This grading quirk gives Paramount coins unique character but creates authentication challenges we must navigate.

Weight Verification: Your Precision Toolkit

Always start authentication with exact weight measurement. Authentic Morgans and Peace dollars tip the scales at precisely 26.73 grams. Any variance beyond ±0.1 grams should set off alarms in your collector’s intuition.

Counterfeiters struggle to match genuine weight distribution consistently. While a single coin might pass, comparing multiple specimens often reveals irregularities. Keep that calibrated 0.01-gram scale handy – it’s your first line of defense for preserving numismatic value.

The Magnetic Test: Simple Science, Powerful Results

Here’s an elegant authentication trick: silver isn’t magnetic. Run a strong neodymium magnet over your Paramount Dollar. No movement? You’ve passed Höchst level one! Any attraction means ferrous metals lurk beneath the surface – an instant red flag.

While advanced fakes use non-magnetic alloys, a positive result definitively exposes counterfeits. This quick check is perfect for screening purchases or evaluating bulk lots while preserving eye appeal.

Reading the Coins: Die Markers Tell All

True authentication artistry lies in studying die markers. Take that intriguing Philadelphia 1900 Morgan – its blank space where mint marks should be tells part of its story. Under proper magnification, these coins whisper their secrets through:

• Liberty’s earlobe contours and hair details
• The eagle’s feather arrangement, especially tail patterns
• Date numeral spacing and positioning
• Telltale doubling or repunched elements

Arm yourself with a quality 10x-20x loupe. When details align perfectly with documented specimens, you’ll feel that collector’s thrill of confirming authenticity!

Counterfeit Spotting: Know Your Enemy

Let’s expose common fakes targeting Paramount Dollars:

Cast Counterfeits

Molded from genuine coins, these often feel “off” – with porous surfaces, soft details, and incorrect weight. Under magnification, you’ll spot grainy textures where authentic coins show crisp strikes.

Struck Counterfeits

These sophisticated fakes use transfer dies. They might fool casual inspection, but examine details: look for misaligned elements, ghostly doubling, or unnatural luster that betrays non-standard alloys.

Altered Dates/Mint Marks

The oldest trick! Scrutinize date and mint areas under magnification. Tool marks, mismatched patina, or disrupted metal flow expose these frauds. Remember – authentic features blend seamlessly into the coin’s fabric.

Advanced Authentication: Next-Level Collecting

For prized specimens, these professional techniques offer peace of mind:

Specific Gravity Testing

Measure density by comparing weight to water displacement. Silver’s 10.49 specific gravity differs markedly from counterfeits. Perfect for confirming metal purity non-destructively.

XRF Analysis

X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy reveals exact metallic composition. While requiring professional equipment, it’s the gold standard for verifying silver content without compromising surface quality.

Die Variety Research

Cross-reference your coin against Van Allen & Mallis’s essential catalog. Documented die varieties provide the roadmap to provenance – when your coin matches, you’ve struck numismatic gold!

The Paramount Mailer: More Than Just Packaging

Original Paramount mailers spark collector passion! As one forum member exclaimed, “The mailer is cooler than the coin!” These time capsules offer tangible historical context with:

• Distinctive Paramount logos and 1970s typography
• Grade-specific labeling linking to Redfield origins
• Period-correct paper stock and printing techniques
• Matching certificates (when you’re lucky!)

While mailers alone don’t guarantee authenticity, they significantly boost provenance and collectibility when combined with other verification methods.

Professional Grading: Your Ultimate Safeguard

For high-value Paramount Dollars, trust the pros at PCGS, NGC or ANACS. Their services include:

• Expert examination by seasoned numismatists
• High-res imaging against known genuine specimens
• Secure encapsulation with tamper-proof certification
• Detailed attribution of rare varieties

Remember ANACS’s origin story: founded in 1978-79 specifically to address Paramount-era grading gaps. As their founder noted, “I invented the MS63 grade to fill that crucial middle ground.” This context is vital when evaluating Paramount Dollars today.

Market Realities: Smart Collecting Strategies

Most Paramount-graded coins run “at least a point over” modern standards – factor this into valuations. Key elements affecting numismatic value include:

• True condition relative to contemporary MS benchmarks
• Original surfaces with intact luster
• Inclusion of period packaging
• Rare variety status
• Documented Redfield provenance

Conclusion: Become an Authentication Expert

Mastering Paramount Dollar authentication blends science with historical insight. These coins connect us to numismatic history – but only if they’re genuine. Burn these essentials into your collector’s toolkit:

1. Verify weight to the hundredth of a gram
2. Confirm zero magnetic response
3. Study die markers like a detective
4. Research date/mint specifics exhaustively
5. Seek professional grading for premium pieces
6. Cherish original packaging as historical artifacts

As counterfeits evolve, your knowledge is the ultimate safeguard. Whether holding a Redfield veteran or rare variety, these techniques preserve history’s authenticity – ensuring your collection maintains its legacy for generations.

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