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There’s nothing like the rush of adding to a collection—or even the pleasure of starting one. However, if you’re taken by a scam, you may be stuck with fake items. That’s especially true of gold coins, which run the gamut from authentic to counterfeit. How can you tell if what you have is the real deal? At American Trading Company, the leading family-owned pawn shop in Cincinnati, OH, they value authenticity above all else. That’s why these gold coin dealers are sharing the following helpful tips‚ so you can spot the real stuff for yourself.

Gold Coin Dealers Share 4 Ways to Tell Real From Fake

1. Check Markings

Cincinnati, OH gold coin dealersExpert counterfeiters may be skilled at imitating details, but it’s near impossible to mimic the minute markings that separate the real from the faux. Inspect the markings on the coin in question against those on an authentic one to determine its authenticity. If something seems inconsistent, there’s a good chance you have an inauthentic coin.

2. Inspect Seams

The seams on a coin are often a dead giveaway of authenticity. These areas feature along the circumference of the coin where the counterfeiter created a mold by pouring softened metal into an impression. The seams are then softened to create a “natural” look, but the differences are quite visible to experienced gold coin dealers.

3. Use Magnets

Run a magnet over that rare coin you plan to purchase. Is the magnet attracted to it? If so, there’s a strong chance it’s not real at all. Magnets aren’t drawn to genuine gold and silver.

4. Test Reliefs

The relief of a coin refers to the height of its surface image. Many ancient coins are considered “high-relief,” because they have three-dimensional silhouettes that make them difficult to stack atop each other. These truly are collectible and rare coins. Most counterfeit artists can’t craft a fake coin with the right relief—it’s either too low or too high in scale. If it’s too high, the coin will instantly fall over when placed in a stack of authentic ones. A gold coin dealer can test this out for you.

Understanding just how complex an authentic coin is grants pawn shop visitors a greater appreciation for the real thing. The team at American Trading Company values every item that passes through their doors, and they aren’t satisfied until you are. Visit the pawn shop’s website to learn more about how to buy or sell gold. You can also call their location on Harrison Avenue at (513) 661-3633, or their Galbraith Road shop at (513) 385-6789.

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