The 1889-CC Morgan Dollar, minted in Carson City, Nevada, holds a special place in the hearts of coin collectors. With its rich history and scarcity, the coin is highly sought after in the numismatic community. However, as with many valuable coins, the 1889-CC Morgan Dollar has also become a target for counterfeiters. In this article, we will discuss the specific characteristics of the 1889-CC Morgan Dollar, the common methods used by counterfeiters, and how to identify a fake version of this iconic coin, particularly those with joined halves.
Understanding the 1889-CC Morgan Dollar
The 1889-CC Morgan Dollar is a notable coin in the series due to its low mintage. Only 350,000 Morgan Dollars were struck at the Carson City Mint that year, making it one of the rarest issues in the Morgan Dollar series. The Carson City mintmark, “CC,” is located on the reverse of the coin beneath the eagle’s tail feathers. As a result, collectors place a premium on the 1889-CC, especially when it is in good condition.
Common Counterfeiting Techniques for 1889-CC Morgan Dollars
One of the most common forms of counterfeiting for Morgan Dollars is creating “joined halves.” This process involves taking two real halves of a coin, usually one from a different year or mint, and fusing them together to create a complete counterfeit coin. In the case of the 1889-CC Morgan Dollar, counterfeiters might use this method to try to pass off a more easily acquired 1889 or a coin from a different mint as the rare Carson City issue.
Detecting a Joined Half 1889-CC Morgan Dollar
Detecting a joined half coin requires a combination of the following techniques and tools:
1. Visual Inspection of the Seam
- The first step is a detailed visual inspection. Look closely at the edge of the coin where the two halves were fused. The seam or join may be visible and often appears as a slight ridge or disruption in the coin’s surface. A real Morgan Dollar, including the 1889-CC, has a consistent, smooth edge with no interruptions.
- Use magnification to closely inspect the join. A joined coin may show signs of wear around the seam, indicating that the parts were artificially altered and joined together.
2. Check the Mintmark
- The mintmark on the 1889-CC Morgan Dollar is critical for authenticity. A genuine 1889-CC will have a distinct “CC” mintmark, located just below the eagle’s tail feathers. Counterfeiters often attempt to replicate this mintmark, but it will usually appear either poorly struck or out of alignment due to the imperfect nature of the counterfeiting process.
- A joined coin may have a mintmark that is inconsistent with the rest of the design, or it may appear to be an overstamped mintmark from a different coin.
3. Weight and Diameter Measurement
- One of the easiest ways to spot a counterfeit is to measure the coin’s weight and diameter. A genuine Morgan Dollar weighs approximately 26.73 grams and has a diameter of 38.1 mm. If the joined halves were mismatched or if a different type of coin was used for the process, the counterfeit coin’s weight or diameter may differ from the standard.
- Use a digital scale with high precision and a caliper to measure the coin’s physical characteristics.
4. Use of X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) Technology
- Professional coin graders and numismatists can use XRF technology to analyze the metal composition of the coin. This technology is particularly useful in detecting coins that have been altered or joined together from multiple sources. A genuine 1889-CC Morgan Dollar will have a consistent metal composition, whereas a counterfeit may have variations in its metal content.
Conclusion
The 1889-CC Morgan Dollar remains one of the most valuable and desirable coins for collectors, but with its high demand comes the potential for counterfeits. Counterfeiters often employ deceptive techniques, such as joining two halves of a coin, to create convincing fakes. By understanding the characteristics of the coin and using various detection methods, you can protect your collection from fraudulent pieces. Always inspect the mintmark, weight, diameter, and surface details, and when in doubt, consult with a professional for authentication. Remember, while the 1889-CC Morgan Dollar is rare, its authenticity can be verified with the right knowledge and tools.
FAQs
How can I tell if my 1889-CC Morgan Dollar is genuine?
To authenticate your 1889-CC Morgan Dollar, inspect the mintmark, check for signs of a joined coin by examining the seam and edges, and measure the coin’s weight and diameter. If in doubt, seek professional authentication.
What are joined halves in coin counterfeiting?
Joined halves involve combining two separate coin parts to create a complete counterfeit. These halves are fused together through heat or pressure, resulting in a coin that may seem authentic at first glance but shows irregularities upon closer inspection.
What tools can I use to detect a counterfeit 1889-CC Morgan Dollar?
You can use a magnifying glass to check for seam irregularities, a digital scale for weight, and a caliper for measuring the coin’s diameter. Advanced detection methods like X-ray fluorescence (XRF) are also used by professionals to analyze the coin’s metal composition.