The Counterfeit PCGS Slab Crisis: My Insights and Advice

As a fellow coin collector, I’ve watched the flood of fake PCGS slabs with growing alarm. Every day seems to bring new counterfeits, especially targeting key dates like Morgan dollars, making us all sharpen our eyes.

How This Mess Keeps Growing

Fake slabs are multiplying like rabbits. Just last week, I spotted eBay listings for slabbed 1893-CC and 1880-CC Morgans – both new fakes in my experience – that vanished when reported, only to resurface later. This endless cat-and-mouse game shows how relentless overseas counterfeiters have become, and it’s eating away at trust in our hobby.

Spotting Fakes: What I Look For

Through trial and error, I’ve learned to spot counterfeit holders before even checking the coin. Here’s what works:

• Label clues: PCGS only used “Morgan” on labels for 1921-P coins. Always verify this, plus the PCGS logo placement in the lower front right corner – fakes often botch it.
• Font and barcode tells: Fake slab text often has slightly wrong fonts that feel “off” under close scrutiny. And that barcode? It rarely scans right – an easy test.
• Coin details: Match against known genuine varieties (like VAMs for Morgans). Most fake CC coins miss the distinctive ‘slash’ on the eagle’s breast.
• Side-by-side checks: I keep comparison shots of fake and real slabs – nothing teaches faster than seeing differences side-by-side.

Why New Collectors Get Hurt Most

This hits casual collectors hardest – I remember being there. Early on, I’d buy slabbed coins thinking they were safe, never realizing how exposed I was. Building real expertise takes years, and we all make mistakes. I still cringe remembering dealers who sold me fakes “for my education.” It shouldn’t feel like you need to outsmart the grading companies just to start collecting.

Staying Safe Out There

Here’s how I protect myself now: Learn constantly with resources like the Redbook and authentication guides. Buy only from trusted dealers and auctions – relationships matter. Accept that some fakes will slip through; it happens to everyone. Practical tip: Find or make visual PDF guides highlighting fake traits – mine lives on my phone for quick checks at shows.

Where We Go From Here

Grading services like PCGS must improve security – maybe QR codes or better anti-counterfeit features. As collectors, we should share knowledge freely. I’m heartened by community efforts to track bad sellers and teach newcomers. Though the threat is real, staying alert and connected keeps our passion alive. Coin collecting remains deeply rewarding – with care, we can preserve what makes it special.