Counterfeit Coin Detection – Fake 1885-CC Morgan Dollar in Fake GSA Holder

The world of numismatics is filled with exciting discoveries and valuable rarities. However, it is also plagued by counterfeits that deceive collectors and investors alike. One such deceptive piece is the fake 1885-CC Morgan Dollar housed in a counterfeit General Services Administration (GSA) holder. This fraudulent combination preys on the reputation of the GSA-hoarded Carson City silver dollars and the allure of the rare 1885-CC Morgan. In this article, we explore the telltale signs of this fake, how to authenticate genuine pieces, and why counterfeiters target such coins.

The Significance of the 1885-CC Morgan Dollar

The 1885-CC Morgan Dollar is one of the key dates in the Morgan Dollar series. With a mintage of only 228,000 coins, it is one of the rarest Carson City issues. While many Morgan Dollars were released through the GSA sales of the 1970s, no official 1885-CC dollars were part of those sales. Any example found in a GSA holder today should be treated with extreme suspicion.

How the Fake GSA Holder Deceives Collectors

A significant part of this scam lies in the counterfeit GSA holder itself. GSA holders were used by the U.S. government to distribute hoards of authentic Carson City Morgan Dollars, making them a trusted source of authenticity. Counterfeiters understand that collectors view coins in these holders as untouchable and beyond suspicion, making them an ideal target for fraud.

Some signs of a fake GSA holder include:

• Incorrect Font and Lettering – The original GSA holders have crisp, clear, and properly spaced lettering. Fakes often use slightly different fonts or have irregular spacing.
• Poorly Sealed Cases – Authentic GSA holders are securely sealed, while fake ones may have glue residue, improper seams, or an easily tampered edge.
• Incorrect Card Inserts – The certificate of authenticity and informational card inside the holder should match known examples from original GSA hoards. Some counterfeiters use poorly printed or mismatched inserts.

Signs of a Fake 1885-CC Morgan Dollar

In addition to the fake holder, the 1885-CC Morgan Dollar itself is often a counterfeit. Key indicators include:

• Incorrect Weight and Dimensions – Genuine Morgan Dollars weigh 26.73 grams and have a diameter of 38.1mm. Counterfeits often deviate slightly from these specifications.
• Weak or Soft Details – The design elements, such as Liberty’s hair and the eagle’s feathers, should be sharp and well-defined. Fakes often show mushy or inconsistent details.
• Wrong Mintmark Placement – Since counterfeiters use altered common-date Morgans, the “CC” mintmark might be in the wrong position or have an unnatural appearance.
• Magnet Test & Edge Reeding – Authentic silver Morgans are non-magnetic, and their reeded edges are sharp. Fake coins may be magnetic or have uneven reeding.

How to Protect Yourself from Buying Counterfeits

To ensure you purchase a genuine 1885-CC Morgan Dollar, follow these steps:

1. Buy from Reputable Dealers – Avoid online auction sites with vague listings and stick to dealers who offer money-back authenticity guarantees.
2. Third-Party Grading – Purchase coins certified by PCGS, NGC, or ANACS, which provide professional authentication and grading.
3. Use a Magnet & Scale – Check the coin’s weight and magnetic properties before making a purchase.
4. Examine the Holder Carefully – Compare it with known genuine GSA holders to spot any discrepancies.

Conclusion

The fake 1885-CC Morgan Dollar in a counterfeit GSA holder is a dangerous scam that preys on collectors seeking rare Carson City dollars. By learning the telltale signs of a fake GSA holder and counterfeit coin, collectors can better protect themselves from fraud. Always rely on trusted sources, verify details, and seek expert opinions before making significant numismatic purchases.

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