By Jack Riley
When it comes to raw coins it is very important to inspect them thoroughly. Start with learning how to grade coins and then learn more about counterfeits on Proxiblog. The coin featured here is altered and as such, a prime example of how learning the hobby saves time and expense. You will learn that everything isn’t always as it seems!
The coin pictured below looks like any other Morgan Dollar on the surface but there are many things hidden.
The edge view directly in line shows some “tampering.” The discoloration and infrequent width and grooves of the reeding is indicative for an “Embossed mintmark.”
The obvious step here is to attribute this coin and what is found is rather surprising. The die marriage attributes to a Philadelphia struck 1888 VAM-8! The following photos compare the subject example (SE) compared to VAMworld plate photos of a genuine 1888P. The thread-like impression on the forehead and reverse marker between the tailfeathers stand out and prove this to be a Philadelphia strike NOT a San Francisco struck coin.
The correct type IV mintmark shape was used in making this as well! Making it even more convincing and difficult to discern. This style mintmark was used throughout the series from 1879 to 1900.
This was a fairly well executed added mintmark with attention to detail. Making it ever so important to attribute coins you plan to purchase or currently have in your collection.
As a regular contributor to Proxiblog, you can read more of my investigative work on the Counterfeit Category tab.
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