A counterfeit of a United States coin minted in 1879, specifically a silver dollar, represents an imitation produced with the intent to deceive. These fraudulent pieces are often created to resemble genuine specimens, potentially utilizing base metals or employing methods to artificially age the coin’s appearance. For example, a piece made of nickel and plated with silver, bearing the design and markings of an 1879-dated dollar, would constitute such a fraudulent item.
The existence of these forgeries highlights the importance of numismatic authentication. Their presence underscores the potential for financial loss when dealing in collectible coins and necessitates careful examination by experts. Historically, the value of silver dollars, particularly those with specific mint marks or in exceptional condition, has made them attractive targets for counterfeiters.
The proliferation of these imitations necessitates discussing authentication methods, common characteristics of the fraudulent pieces, and strategies for collectors to protect themselves from inadvertently acquiring them. The following sections will address these topics in detail.
1. Weight Discrepancies
Weight discrepancies represent a significant indicator of a counterfeit 1879 silver dollar. A genuine Morgan dollar, the most common type of silver dollar minted in 1879, should possess a standard weight of 26.73 grams. A significant deviation from this weight, even by a fraction of a gram, raises immediate suspicion. This is because counterfeiters frequently employ base metals with differing densities to reduce production costs. For example, a coin with the correct diameter and design but weighing only 24 grams is almost certainly not composed of the correct silver alloy and therefore is likely a forgery.
The use of cheaper metals directly affects the weight, as these metals possess different densities compared to the 90% silver and 10% copper alloy of genuine Morgan dollars. Counterfeiters often attempt to match the visual appearance through silver plating, but the underlying metal’s weight remains inconsistent. The presence of a consistent weight is not a sole guarantee of authenticity, as sophisticated forgeries might attempt to manipulate the weight. However, a weight discrepancy serves as a crucial initial flag, prompting further, more detailed examination.
Therefore, verifying the weight of a suspect 1879 silver dollar against the standard specification is a fundamental step in the authentication process. While weight alone is insufficient for definitive authentication, its deviation provides critical evidence warranting a more thorough analysis involving other diagnostic characteristics. Recognizing and acting upon these weight discrepancies are paramount in preventing financial loss and preserving the integrity of numismatic collections.
2. Metal Composition
The metal composition of an 1879 silver dollar is a primary factor in determining its authenticity. Genuine examples comprise 90% silver and 10% copper. Deviations from this precise alloy ratio are a strong indicator of a fraudulent piece, necessitating a rigorous analysis of elemental makeup.
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Specific Gravity Measurement
Specific gravity, the ratio of a substance’s density to that of water, provides a non-destructive method for assessing metal composition. Counterfeiters often use base metals like nickel or lead, which have significantly different densities than the genuine silver-copper alloy. A specific gravity test can quickly reveal these discrepancies. For instance, a genuine silver dollar has a specific gravity around 10.3, while base metals will yield substantially lower values.
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X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) Analysis
XRF analysis provides a precise, non-destructive method for determining the elemental composition of a coin’s surface. This technique can identify the percentages of silver, copper, and other elements present. If an XRF scan reveals the presence of metals other than silver and copper, or if the silver content falls significantly below 90%, the coin is almost certainly a forgery. Some sophisticated counterfeits employ silver plating to mask the underlying metal, but XRF can penetrate the plating and analyze the bulk material.
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Acid Testing
Acid testing, while potentially damaging, offers a direct method for determining the silver content of a coin. This involves applying a small amount of nitric acid to an inconspicuous area. Genuine silver reacts slowly, producing a creamy white reaction. Base metals react more vigorously, often producing a green or blue coloration. While effective, acid testing should be performed cautiously and only when other non-destructive methods are inconclusive, due to the potential for permanent damage.
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Electrical Conductivity
The electrical conductivity of silver is significantly higher than that of most base metals. An electrical conductivity test, although less common for coin authentication, can provide an additional data point. Counterfeit coins made with base metals will exhibit significantly lower conductivity than genuine silver dollars. This test requires specialized equipment but can be a valuable tool in identifying subtle discrepancies in metal composition.
In conclusion, analyzing the metal composition represents a critical step in verifying the authenticity of an 1879 silver dollar. Methods such as specific gravity measurement, XRF analysis, acid testing, and electrical conductivity testing provide valuable insights into the elemental makeup of the coin. The presence of incorrect metals or deviations from the 90% silver standard strongly indicates a fraudulent piece, emphasizing the importance of this analysis in protecting collectors and investors from financial loss.
3. Die Imperfections
Die imperfections, or flaws present on the dies used to strike coins, are often replicated in counterfeit 1879 silver dollars. These imperfections, when observed on a suspect coin, do not automatically confirm its authenticity, but their absence when they should be present, or the presence of incorrect imperfections, is a strong indicator of a forgery. Genuine dies, due to wear, damage, or manufacturing errors, can exhibit specific characteristics, such as die cracks, die chips, or polishing lines. Counterfeiters may attempt to replicate these imperfections to enhance the perceived authenticity of their products. However, replicating them accurately is difficult, and subtle differences can betray the coin’s true nature.
A prime example is the presence of specific die cracks noted on genuine 1879-S Morgan dollars. Certain die states of this coin are known for having distinct crack patterns. If a purported 1879-S Morgan dollar lacks these expected die cracks or displays cracks in different locations or with different characteristics, it raises serious concerns about its authenticity. Similarly, the presence of unique die chips on certain 1879 Carson City (CC) Morgan dollars, such as those found near specific design elements, serves as a valuable authentication tool. Replicating these intricate details requires sophisticated counterfeiting techniques, and inconsistencies are often detectable under magnification. The absence of these documented imperfections is suggestive of a copy.
In summary, the careful study of die imperfections, while not a singular determinant of authenticity, forms a critical component of evaluating 1879 silver dollars. Awareness of documented die states and their associated imperfections enables numismatists to identify discrepancies indicative of counterfeit pieces. While sophisticated counterfeits may attempt to mimic these details, subtle errors often remain detectable through careful examination. This underscores the importance of combining die state analysis with other authentication techniques, such as weight and metal composition analysis, to arrive at a well-informed conclusion regarding a coin’s genuineness.
4. Seam Visibility
Seam visibility is a critical indicator when assessing the authenticity of an 1879 silver dollar. Genuine silver dollars were struck using dies, a process that does not typically leave visible seams on the coin’s surface. The presence of noticeable seams often suggests a coin produced through casting or other methods employed by counterfeiters.
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Casting Process Traces
Counterfeit coins frequently originate from casting, a process involving pouring molten metal into a mold. This method often leaves faint seams along the edges or across the surfaces of the coin where the mold pieces joined. These seams, while sometimes subtle, are a telltale sign of a counterfeit and are absent on genuine struck coins.
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Location of Seams
Seams on counterfeit 1879 silver dollars are commonly found around the coin’s perimeter or along the raised design elements. Examining these areas under magnification can reveal thin lines or slight irregularities that indicate the coin was cast rather than struck. The location and characteristics of these seams can provide valuable clues to their origin.
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Seam Texture and Appearance
The texture of seams on counterfeit coins differs from the surface of a genuine struck coin. Cast seams often appear slightly raised or uneven, with a different luster compared to the surrounding metal. This difference in texture is due to the way molten metal cools and solidifies within the mold.
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Filing and Grinding Marks
To conceal casting seams, counterfeiters sometimes attempt to file or grind down the coin’s surface. These efforts can leave behind subtle grinding marks or inconsistencies in the coin’s surface texture. The presence of such marks, especially in areas where seams are commonly found, raises suspicion about the coin’s authenticity.
The visibility of seams provides a valuable diagnostic tool in identifying counterfeit 1879 silver dollars. While some sophisticated counterfeits might attempt to minimize or obscure these seams, careful examination under magnification often reveals their presence. The absence of seams is expected on genuine struck coins, making their presence a significant red flag.
5. Strike Weakness
Strike weakness, characterized by poorly defined design elements and lettering, frequently indicates a counterfeit 1879 silver dollar. Genuine silver dollars were struck with considerable force, resulting in sharp, well-defined details. Conversely, fraudulent examples, often produced using less powerful equipment or inferior die preparation, may exhibit areas where the design appears soft, incomplete, or lacking in detail. This is particularly noticeable in high-relief areas, such as the hair detail on Liberty’s head or the eagle’s feathers on the reverse.
The presence of strike weakness on an otherwise seemingly genuine 1879 silver dollar should immediately raise suspicion. For example, if the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” appears indistinct or partially effaced, or if the denticles (the small tooth-like projections around the coin’s rim) are poorly formed, it suggests a counterfeit. It is important to note that genuine coins can exhibit weak strikes due to die wear or other minting variations. However, strike weakness coupled with other anomalies, such as incorrect weight, metal composition, or the presence of casting seams, significantly strengthens the likelihood of a fraudulent coin. The counterfeiters may attempt to replicate wear patterns to disguise the weakness. But, these efforts generally don’t match the effects of wear on a genuine strike. Examining the whole coin, rather than just one trait, will produce the best possible analysis.
In summary, strike weakness is a crucial diagnostic characteristic in identifying counterfeit 1879 silver dollars. While isolated instances of weak strikes can occur on genuine coins, this feature, when coupled with other suspicious indicators, strongly suggests a fraudulent origin. Awareness of this characteristic is essential for numismatists and investors seeking to protect themselves from acquiring counterfeit currency and for ensuring the integrity of numismatic collections.
6. Surface Texture
Surface texture serves as a critical factor in discerning genuine 1879 silver dollars from fraudulent examples. The minting process of authentic coins imparts a distinctive surface texture characterized by minute flow lines resulting from the displacement of metal under immense pressure. Counterfeit coins, often produced through casting or electroplating, typically lack this characteristic texture, exhibiting a granular or artificially smooth surface. The absence of proper flow lines or the presence of unnatural surface irregularities raises immediate suspicion regarding authenticity.
Counterfeiters may attempt to simulate the surface texture of genuine coins through various methods, such as acid etching or mechanical abrasion. However, these techniques rarely replicate the subtle nuances of a true mint finish. For instance, close examination of a purported 1879 silver dollar reveals a dull, lifeless surface instead of the vibrant luster of a genuine coin. Furthermore, counterfeit coins might display microscopic pitting or roughness indicative of a casting process. The presence of unnatural tool marks or polishing lines, designed to mimic wear, can also point to a fraudulent origin. The inherent qualities of the coin’s surface can also change, thus adding to a genuine piece’s allure.
In summary, surface texture provides valuable insight into the authenticity of an 1879 silver dollar. The presence of natural flow lines and the absence of casting imperfections or artificial enhancements are indicative of a genuine coin. Conversely, a granular texture, microscopic pitting, or signs of artificial alteration should serve as red flags, prompting further investigation using other diagnostic criteria. A trained eye, coupled with proper magnification, significantly improves the ability to detect subtle differences in surface texture and to avoid acquiring counterfeit currency.
7. Edge Lettering
Edge lettering, or the presence of inscriptions or designs on the edge of a coin, is generally not found on genuine 1879 silver dollars. These coins typically feature a reeded edge, characterized by a series of vertical grooves. The appearance of lettering or any other design elements on the edge of a purported 1879 silver dollar immediately suggests a counterfeit.
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Absence on Genuine Coins
Genuine 1879 Morgan and Peace silver dollars were produced with a simple reeded edge. The absence of any lettering or decorative elements on the edge is a defining characteristic. Counterfeiters, lacking the precise minting equipment or knowledge of authentic coin specifications, sometimes produce fraudulent coins with edge lettering, unknowingly deviating from the genuine design. The use of edge lettering where it should not exist is a clear indication of a spurious coin.
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Common Counterfeit Methods
Edge lettering on counterfeit 1879 silver dollars is often achieved through casting or machining processes. These methods allow counterfeiters to easily imprint lettering or designs onto the coin’s edge. However, the resulting lettering typically lacks the sharpness and precision of lettering found on genuine coins produced with specialized edge-lettering machinery, used on certain denominations or commemorative coins.
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Types of Lettering
The lettering found on counterfeit 1879 silver dollar edges can vary. Some counterfeits feature generic inscriptions, while others attempt to mimic lettering found on other coins, often incorrectly. The presence of phrases like “COPY” or random sequences of letters and numbers is indicative of a fraudulent piece intended to deceive inexperienced collectors or buyers. The style and font of the lettering, if present, can also reveal discrepancies when compared to known edge lettering styles from other genuine U.S. coins.
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Detection Techniques
Detecting edge lettering on a suspected 1879 silver dollar requires careful visual inspection. Examining the coin’s edge under magnification can reveal the presence of even faint or poorly executed lettering. Comparing the edge to known examples of genuine 1879 silver dollars, which should have a reeded edge, further aids in identification. The use of a loupe or magnifying glass allows for a detailed examination of the edge surface, revealing any irregularities or signs of lettering that would not be present on a genuine coin.
The presence of edge lettering on a purported 1879 silver dollar is a strong indicator of a counterfeit. The absence of such lettering on genuine coins, combined with the methods counterfeiters use to create it and the variations in lettering styles, provides a valuable tool for identifying fraudulent pieces. Careful examination and comparison to known genuine examples are crucial steps in preventing the acquisition of counterfeit 1879 silver dollars, protecting numismatists and investors from financial loss.
8. Magnification Flaws
Microscopic imperfections often betray counterfeit 1879 silver dollars. High magnification reveals flaws imperceptible to the naked eye, exposing characteristics absent on genuine coins struck at the U.S. Mint. Casting seams, tool marks from crude die alterations, and unnatural porosity become evident under magnification, serving as critical indicators of a fraudulent piece. The magnification process amplifies the deviations that separate a genuine strike from a fabricated imitation, highlighting inconsistencies in detail and surface quality that would otherwise remain concealed.
For example, a genuine 1879 Morgan dollar exhibits consistent flow lines radiating from the center of the coin, a product of the striking process under immense pressure. Under magnification, these flow lines appear uniform and well-defined. A counterfeit, however, might display a granular surface texture lacking these flow lines, or feature flow lines that are artificially etched or poorly replicated. Similarly, the intricate details of Liberty’s hair or the eagle’s feathers, sharply rendered on a genuine coin, may appear soft and indistinct under magnification on a fake. The presence of tiny bubbles or pits on the surface, indicative of a casting process, further corroborates suspicions of a fraudulent origin. Microscopic tool marks from attempts to alter the dies or create artificial wear also become readily apparent under magnification.
In conclusion, magnification exposes subtle flaws inherent in counterfeit 1879 silver dollars, providing a potent tool for authentication. While not all microscopic imperfections definitively prove a coin’s spurious nature, their presence, in conjunction with other diagnostic criteria, strengthens the case for a fraudulent origin. Numismatists and collectors employ magnification as a standard practice, recognizing its vital role in discerning genuine coins from deceptive imitations, safeguarding their collections and investments from the risks associated with counterfeit currency.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following addresses common inquiries regarding counterfeit 1879 silver dollars, providing informative answers to assist collectors and investors in identifying fraudulent specimens.
Question 1: What are the primary motivations for producing counterfeit 1879 silver dollars?
The primary motivation is financial gain. Genuine 1879 silver dollars, particularly those in excellent condition or with desirable mint marks, command significant premiums in the numismatic market. Counterfeiters seek to profit by producing and selling fraudulent imitations as authentic coins.
Question 2: Are there specific mint marks of 1879 silver dollars that are more frequently counterfeited?
Yes. Coins with the “CC” (Carson City) mint mark, due to their relative scarcity and higher value, are commonly targeted by counterfeiters. Similarly, 1879-S (San Francisco) Morgan dollars with specific desirable die varieties are also frequently encountered as fakes.
Question 3: What are some readily available tools that can aid in detecting a counterfeit 1879 silver dollar?
A magnifying glass or loupe, a digital scale accurate to at least 0.01 grams, and a set of calipers are essential tools. These instruments allow for visual inspection, weight verification, and measurement of the coin’s diameter and thickness, all of which are crucial in detecting discrepancies.
Question 4: How reliable are online marketplaces for purchasing 1879 silver dollars, considering the prevalence of counterfeits?
Online marketplaces present a higher risk of encountering counterfeit coins due to the lack of direct physical inspection prior to purchase. Exercising extreme caution, scrutinizing seller reputations, and requesting detailed photographs are vital. Seeking expert authentication after purchasing a coin online is highly recommended.
Question 5: Is professional authentication a worthwhile investment when acquiring an 1879 silver dollar?
Yes. Professional authentication by a reputable third-party grading service (TPGS) such as PCGS or NGC provides assurance of authenticity and assigns a grade reflecting the coin’s condition. The cost of authentication is generally a worthwhile investment, particularly for higher-value specimens.
Question 6: What recourse is available if a counterfeit 1879 silver dollar is unknowingly purchased?
If a counterfeit coin is identified after purchase, contact the seller immediately and request a refund. If the seller is uncooperative, file a complaint with the online marketplace (if applicable) or consider pursuing legal action. Reporting the counterfeit to the appropriate authorities helps prevent further fraudulent activity.
Understanding the risks associated with counterfeit 1879 silver dollars and employing appropriate authentication techniques are essential for protecting numismatic collections and investments. The information provided above serves as a foundational guide for identifying fraudulent specimens.
The next section will address advanced authentication techniques and strategies for mitigating the risk of acquiring counterfeit coins.
Guidance Regarding Fraudulent 1879 Silver Dollars
The proliferation of imitations necessitates adopting stringent verification practices to safeguard against acquiring a fraudulent 1879 silver dollar. Diligence and informed scrutiny are paramount.
Tip 1: Verify Weight and Dimensions: Genuine 1879 silver dollars possess a specific weight and diameter. Deviations from the established specifications indicate potential fraud. Precise digital scales and calipers should be utilized for accurate measurement.
Tip 2: Examine Metal Composition: The metal composition of a genuine 1879 silver dollar consists of a precise ratio of silver and copper. Employ non-destructive testing methods, such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis, to ascertain the coin’s elemental makeup. Anomalous metal content raises suspicion.
Tip 3: Scrutinize Strike Quality: Authentic 1879 silver dollars exhibit sharp, well-defined design elements resulting from the minting process. Soft or indistinct details, particularly in high-relief areas, suggest a substandard strike, potentially indicative of a counterfeit.
Tip 4: Investigate Surface Texture: The surface texture of a genuine coin should display minute flow lines imparted during striking. A grainy or unnatural surface texture, often observed on cast counterfeits, warrants further investigation.
Tip 5: Assess Edge Characteristics: Authentic 1879 silver dollars possess a reeded edge. The presence of any lettering, designs, or unusual markings on the edge is a clear indication of a counterfeit.
Tip 6: Magnify Details: Employ magnification to examine the coin’s surface for microscopic imperfections, such as casting seams, tool marks, or unnatural porosity. These flaws, often imperceptible to the naked eye, are telltale signs of a fraudulent origin.
Tip 7: Consult a Professional: When uncertain about the authenticity of an 1879 silver dollar, seek professional authentication from a reputable numismatist or third-party grading service (TPGS). Expert analysis can provide definitive confirmation or expose subtle indicators of fraud.
The implementation of these guidelines substantially reduces the risk of acquiring a fraudulent 1879 silver dollar, protecting financial investments and preserving the integrity of numismatic collections.
The subsequent sections will delve into legal ramifications and resources available for reporting counterfeit currency.
Conclusion
The preceding analysis underscores the pervasive threat posed by the 1879 silver dollar fake within the numismatic realm. The examination of weight discrepancies, metal composition anomalies, die imperfections, seam visibility, strike weakness, surface texture inconsistencies, edge lettering irregularities, and magnification flaws reveals the multifaceted strategies employed by counterfeiters. These indicators, when meticulously assessed, provide essential tools for discerning genuine specimens from deceptive imitations.
The continued vigilance of collectors, investors, and numismatic professionals remains paramount in mitigating the circulation of these fraudulent artifacts. A commitment to due diligence, coupled with the utilization of professional authentication services when necessary, ensures the preservation of numismatic integrity and safeguards against financial loss. The pursuit of knowledge and the rigorous application of established authentication techniques represent the most effective defenses against the enduring challenge presented by the 1879 silver dollar fake.
