As an aspiring coin collector, you may have had the desire to add some gold pieces to your assemblage. However, since the precious metal is more valuable than silver, nickel, and copper, there is a greater risk of encountering counterfeits. To avoid being tricked, use the following three tips to identify a genuine gold coin.

3 Tips for Determining the Authenticity of a Gold Coin

1. Use a Magnet

When you first encounter a gold coin, you can immediately gauge the trustworthiness of the seller by using this simple test. Ask to examine the coin up close, then pull out a strong magnet. If the magnet wants to cling to the coin, the item is counterfeit. Real gold will not be phased by magnetic forces.

2. Consider the Design

If you are after a particular gold coin, get to know the piece like the back of your hand. Study the obverse and reverse sides as well as the rim for details.

For example, the obverse of the Gold American Eagle coin features a woman with long, flowing hair, and the word LIBERTY arching over the top, with her torch in between the “I” and “B.” Counterfeit versions might feature text in a sans serif instead of serif font, ill-defined illustrations, and horizontal lines across the woman’s legs.

3. Keep Size in Mind

Find the dimensions and weight of the coin you are looking for online. When meeting with a seller, ask to weigh the coin and measure its diameter with calipers.

While 24-karat gold coins will weigh one troy ounce, gold alloy coins, including the American Gold Eagle, will weigh a bit more—around 1.0909 troy ounces. American Gold Eagle coins measure at 32.7 mm in diameter, and 2.87 mm thick. If any of these dimensions are off, you might have been handed a counterfeit gold coin.

If you are hoping to become a coin collector with an eye for authenticity, let the experts at Coins Plus lend their insight. This celebrated coin dealer has been in business since 1972 and become an industry leader. Whether you are buying, selling, or looking for an appraisal, call the expert coin collectors at (513) 621-1996 for more information. You can also visit the website for a closer look at their rare coins, paper money, and other treasures.