Counterfeit Coin Detection – Altered 1856 Flying Eagle Cent

CCAC to Review Designs for Hidden Figures Congressional Gold Medals, Among Others

The 1856 Flying Eagle Cent is one of the most coveted coins in U.S. numismatics, primarily because it represents the first small-sized cent ever minted. With fewer than 2,000 genuine examples estimated to exist, its rarity and value make it a prime target for counterfeiters and coin alterers. For collectors, being able to detect an … Read more

Mike Byers Mint Error News – Unique 1977 Lincoln Cent on Aluminum Planchet

Mike Byers Mint Error News – Unique 1977 Lincoln Cent on Aluminum Planchet

In the realm of numismatics, mint errors often captivate collectors due to their rarity and the intriguing stories behind their creation. One such remarkable specimen is the unique 1977 Lincoln Cent struck on an aluminum planchet, a coin that stands as a testament to the unpredictable nature of minting processes. Discovery and Certification This singular … Read more

The Engraved Pattern “Mature Head” Cent Design Model

The Engraved Pattern “Mature Head” Cent Design Model

In the mid-19th century, the United States Mint underwent significant design transitions for its coinage, particularly the large cent. A pivotal moment in this evolution was the creation of the engraved pattern “Mature Head” cent design model, attributed to Chief Engraver Christian Gobrecht. This design served as a bridge between earlier motifs and the more … Read more

The Uniquely American Appeal of the $3 Indian Princess Gold Coin

The Uniquely American Appeal of the $3 Indian Princess Gold Coin

The $3 Indian Princess Gold Coin, minted from 1854 to 1889, is one of the most distinctive and enigmatic coins in U.S. numismatic history. Its unusual denomination, elegant design, and historical significance make it a fascinating collectible. Despite its limited practical use in commerce, the coin embodies a uniquely American character, reflecting the nation’s gold … Read more

Classic U.S. Coins – When Did Type One Double Eagles Become Popular?

Classic U.S. Coins – When Did Type One Double Eagles Become Popular

The Type One Liberty Head Double Eagle, minted from 1850 to 1866, is a significant piece in U.S. numismatics. Despite its historical importance, its popularity among collectors has seen notable shifts over time. Early Years and Initial Reception Upon its introduction in 1850, the double eagle became the most popular gold coin in terms of … Read more

U.S. Mint, Royal Mint Team Up for Mayflower Anniversary Coins & Medals

U.S. Mint, Royal Mint Team Up for Mayflower Anniversary Coins & Medals

In 2020, the United States Mint and the Royal Mint of the United Kingdom collaborated on a special numismatic release to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower’s historic voyage. This unprecedented partnership resulted in a series of gold and silver coins and medals, honoring the journey that brought the Pilgrims to the New World … Read more

Counterfeit Coin Detection: 1903-S Added S Morgan Dollar

Counterfeit Coin Detection 1903-S Added S Morgan Dollar

The 1903-S Morgan Dollar is a valuable and sought-after coin among collectors. While not the rarest in the series, high-grade examples command significant premiums due to lower survival rates. Unfortunately, its value has also made it a prime target for counterfeiters. One of the most deceptive forms of fraud is the “Added S” variety, where … Read more

Counterfeit Detection: Die-Struck Counterfeit 1916-D Mercury Dime

Counterfeit Detection: Die-Struck Counterfeit 1916-D Mercury Dime

The 1916-D Mercury Dime is one of the most coveted key-date coins in American numismatics. With a low mintage of just 264,000, it is the rarest and most valuable Mercury Dime, making it a prime target for counterfeiters. While counterfeits exist in many forms, one of the most deceptive types is the die-struck counterfeit, a … Read more

The 1900-O Over CC Morgan Dollar: The “Last” Carson City Silver Dollar

The 1900-O Over CC Morgan Dollar The “Last” Carson City Silver Dollar

The 1900-O/CC Morgan Dollar is one of the most fascinating and historically significant coins in American numismatics. Known as the “Last” Carson City Silver Dollar, this coin carries a unique blend of history, rarity, and error that makes it highly sought after by collectors. It represents a transitional moment in U.S. coinage, linking the famous … Read more

Counterfeit Coin Detection: Check the Mintmark on the 1914-S Lincoln Cent

Counterfeit Coin Detection Check the Mintmark on the 1914-S Lincoln Cent

The 1914-S Lincoln Cent is one of the most sought-after coins in U.S. numismatics, making it a prime target for counterfeiters. A genuine 1914-S Lincoln Cent can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars depending on its condition, but its popularity has also led to the creation of numerous fakes. One of the key … Read more