NGC Counterfeit Detection Methods 3

Question 1

NGC's in-house authentication process includes 'fingerprinting' coins by examining:

Accepted Answer

Die characteristics unique to each working die pair

Answer

NGC authenticators identify coins by matching unique die characteristics — scratches, clashes, and hub doubling patterns — to known genuine examples.

Question 2

Which type of counterfeit is created by chemically altering a genuine coin of lower denomination or date to imitate a rarer, more valuable issue?

Accepted Answer

Altered coin

Answer

An altered coin is a genuine coin that has been physically or chemically modified — such as changing a date or mintmark — to simulate a rarer variety.

Question 3

On counterfeit Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles, the high-relief portrait fields most often reveal fakery through:

Accepted Answer

Porous or granular surfaces from casting porosity

Answer

Cast counterfeits of Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles show porosity (tiny pits and rough texture) in the open fields that betray their casting origin.

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of examining a coin's 'luster' when detecting counterfeits?

Accepted Answer

Both B and C

Answer

Genuine mint luster results from die flow lines created during striking; examining luster reveals both whether the coin was struck correctly and whether artificial toning hides alterations.

Question 5

Which famous coin series has been extensively counterfeited using genuine but common-date examples with added or altered mintmarks?

Accepted Answer

Buffalo Nickels (1913-1938)

Answer

Buffalo Nickels are frequently altered by adding or moving mintmarks (especially to create the rare 1916 Doubled Die or key-date 'D' and 'S' issues).

(NGC) Numismatic Guaranty Corporation Certified Professional Practice Test

(NGC) Numismatic Guaranty Corporation Certified Professional Practice Test

NGC Counterfeit Detection Methods 3