My Deep Dive into Another Bad Coin in a Good Holder: The eBay 1806 Half Cent Saga

I’ve been tracking a wave of deceptive counterfeit 1806 half cents for years now, and the latest eBay find really got my attention. It started back in 2015 when I first spotted this group of fakes. Since then, I’ve documented 16 examples – and believe it or not, six have actually made it into genuine third-party grading holders. Just this month, another one surfaced online, a solid reminder that staying alert is crucial in our hobby.

Inside the Counterfeit Problem

My journey with these fakes began with my first published article, and I’m now working on my fifth piece tracking their development. These counterfeits are incredibly clever, originating around 2008 from what I’ve traced back to a source in College Station, Texas. They’re modern pieces crafted to mimic the real thing. The latest one I picked up on eBay? It’s an AU-58 beauty with artificial toning so convincing it might fool even experienced eyes. But look closer, and the signs are there: die repairs over the “A” on the reverse and other subtle flaws I’ve highlighted in my research photos.

• Here’s what to watch for: Inconsistencies in the wreath details, odd die cracks, and toning that lacks the depth of genuine patina.
• Die states matter: We’ve seen two main variants, with the second showing attempts to fix earlier mistakes, making them trickier to spot quickly.

When Good Holders Hide Bad Coins

One of the most frustrating things is how these fakes get past top grading companies. I’ve alerted the grading services myself and seen certs corrected afterward, but the fact they slip through shows there’s a gap. From what I’ve seen, these counterfeits are simply that convincing until you place them side-by-side with a known genuine coin. My advice? Never trust the holder alone – always examine the coin yourself. Grab a loupe and check for soft details or wear patterns that don’t quite match up, things graders might miss in a quick look.

This also highlights the risks in online auctions. Sellers often don’t realize they’re dealing with fakes. Take the raw piece I bought from a collector specializing in Chinese coins – he got it from a “cleaning lady” clearing out a closed shop in Boston. It’s smart to ask questions and tread carefully.

What This Means for Collectors

This isn’t just about 1806 half cents. Counterfeiters target all sorts of coins, even scarcer dates like the 1805. I’ve encountered entire fabricated sets, like fake Seated Dollars in counterfeit albums, proving that rarity alone isn’t protection. For half cents, remember the 1805 is much scarcer than the 1806, but even common dates get faked. From my experience, here’s how to protect your collection:

• Always check die details against trusted references – don’t assume a date or holder makes it genuine.
• Pay close attention to toning: Natural toning has layers; artificial often looks too flat or shiny.
• Talk to experts and build relationships; I’ve helped folks with questionable double denominations, and sharing knowledge within our community is priceless.

Staying On Top of Things

Staying sharp in this hobby means keeping your eyes open and asking questions. I’ll keep sharing what I find in my articles, as these counterfeits keep popping up. Whether you’re hunting early copper or any numismatic treasure, double-check everything and don’t be shy about asking for a second look. After all, when bad coins hide in good holders, your best tools are a keen eye and a healthy dose of skepticism.