Types and History of Forgeries
Forgeries of old coins have existed since the Edo period when their value began to be recognized. Particularly rare gold and silver coins were manufactured as privately minted coins, which sometimes hindered legitimate circulation. After the Meiji period, as coin collecting became a popular hobby, the number of sophisticated forgeries aimed at deceiving collectors increased. In modern times, precise cast and electroformed coins manufactured in China are distributed worldwide through the internet, making it extremely difficult to judge authenticity using only photographs. These modern forgeries employ advanced techniques, with improvements in surface texture and the reproduction of characters each year. Forgeries are mainly categorized into three types. The first is "cast forgeries," where molds are taken from genuine coins and filled with metal to create duplicates. These often have tiny air bubbles or mold seams on the surface. The second type is "electroformed forgeries," which are produced by depositing metal using electrolysis, resulting in replicas with very precise appearances. They often differ in density and composition, so weighing can be effective. The third type is "altered coins." This involves modifying and re-engraving genuine old coins to make them appear as rarer coin variants or different coin types. For example, a common Kan'ei Tsūhō (寛永通宝) might be re-engraved to appear as the rare "Nisui Eiraku." Since altered coins are based on genuine ones, they are often the hardest to detect and tend to result in higher financial losses.
Determination by Weight and Dimensions
One of the most basic and effective methods for determining authenticity is precise measurement using a scale accurate to 0.01 grams and calipers. Japanese old coins, especially gold and silver coins from the Edo period, had strict official weight standards. Genuine old coins usually fit these standards with remarkable accuracy. For instance, the official weight of a Keichō Koban is about 17.8g and a Tenpō Koban is about 11.2g. If the weight deviates by more than 0.2g from these standard values, it can be judged as likely being a forgery. Particularly, the quality control of Keichō Koban, being an early gold coin, was strict. It is important to confirm the specifications of each as outlined in Types and Price Ranges of Koban. Forgeries often differ in alloy composition from genuine coins, causing them to deviate from the standard weight even if manufactured to the same dimensions. Different shrinkage rates during the casting process can also result in weight differences. Reliable measuring tools are available on Amazon for about 2,000 to 5,000 yen. As a first step in daily appraisal, it is recommended to always have them on hand.
Key Points in Surface Observation
Careful observation of the surface of old coins is essential for authenticity determination. Edo-period gold coins, in particular, often have a fine patterned line called 'gozame' applied during the manufacturing process. These gozame patterns differ by era; for example, Keichō Koban Guide and Market Price features relatively coarse gozame. In forgeries, these gozame patterns are often imperfectly reproduced or unnaturally uniform. In the case of cast forgeries, there may be tiny air bubble marks on the surface or mold seams (parting lines). These are difficult to see with the naked eye but can be clearly observed using a 10 to 20 times magnifying glass. Additionally, the depth of the engraved characters, the sharpness of the edges, and the clarity of the incuse marks (gokuin) are important criteria. Genuine old coins have natural wear and patina from years of use and storage. Forgery cast surfaces may show unnatural roughness or, conversely, excessive smoothness. Referencing Coin Grading Standards, understanding the condition of genuine coins can help you become more sensitive to inconsistencies in forgeries. Developing a habit of using a magnifying glass to observe intricate details from different angles of light is a crucial first step in enhancing authenticity judgment skills.
Simple Determination by Sound and Feel
Differences in metal density or composition are also revealed by the sound an old coin makes when lightly struck. Genuine gold and silver coins have high density and purity, emitting a clear metallic sound, specifically a high-pitched "ping." In contrast, forgeries often use different alloys, resulting in a duller sound or a low "thunk." However, this sound-based identification method requires experience and skill, which may make it difficult for beginners. Training to compare sounds using multiple genuine old coins and learning the differences by ear are necessary. Additionally, the feel of a coin can serve as an auxiliary judgment factor. Gold and silver have high thermal conductivity, giving a cool sensation when held. In forgeries, the thermal conductivity sensation may differ from genuine coins. For example, forgeries containing a lot of lead or copper have lower thermal conductivity, making them less likely to feel as cool as genuine coins. These sound and feel-based determinations should be positioned as supplementary methods in determining authenticity. The final judgment should combine weight measurement, surface observation, and, if possible, expert appraisal.
Techniques and Identification of Altered Coins
Altered coins are a type of forgery where genuine old coins are processed to enhance their value. These methods are ingenious and require high expertise to detect. There are three typical patterns. The first is re-engraving ordinary characters to appear as rare scripts. For example, the Bunkyū Eihō Collection Guide includes several rare scripts, but common ones are often re-engraved to appear high-priced. The second involves shaving the edges or parts of characters to resemble different types or error coins. The third involves combining fragments of multiple genuine coins to mimic high-priced coin types. The key to identification is first to check with a magnifying glass if the texture of the engraving and the surrounding surface are consistent. Altered areas often show unnatural differences in gloss or inconsistencies in the depth and sharpness of the engraving. Additionally, patina on altered sections may appear unnaturally new or removed. In the case of composite coins, it is necessary to carefully observe for weld marks or mismatched materials at the edges or thickness. Determining this type is very difficult, so if there is any doubt, it is essential to consider consulting with an expert.
Items Particularly Targeted at Beginners
Currency forgery damages tend to concentrate on specific items. Beginners should take particular caution with the following categories. 1. Edo Gold Coins (Koban and Ōban): Especially Tenpō Koban and Bunsei Koban, as they are high-priced per piece, making them lucrative targets for forgers. Numerous precise cast and electroformed forgeries are circulating. Paying particular attention to high-priced items in Introduction to Edo Gold Coins (Koban and Ōban) is crucial. 2. Hole Coins with Rare Characters: Kan'ei Tsūhō (寛永通宝) varieties such as "Nisui Eiraku" or "Shimaya," with subtle visual differences, are frequently altered from common items, making them difficult to distinguish. 3. Ancient Coins: Like those in Introduction to Wadōkaichin and Others, ancient coins have limited existing numbers, making comparisons few and forgeries more challenging to detect. 4. Chinese Imported Coins: Many Chinese old coins are cast, and due to historical backgrounds, they tend to have sophisticated forgeries produced. When purchasing hole coins over 10,000 yen or gold and silver coins over 50,000 yen, it should be standard practice to choose authenticated items from reliable third-party institutions or purchase from dealers affiliated with the Japan Numismatic Dealers Association (JNDA). Always suspect there is a catch with prices that seem too low.
How to Choose a Reliable Place to Buy
Minimizing the risk of purchasing forgeries relies heavily on selecting the right place to buy from. The most recommended option is purchasing from members of the Japan Numismatic Dealers Association (JNDA). JNDA member stores undergo strict inspections, and if forgery sales are discovered, there are established rules for returns and compensation through the association. This is a substantial reassurance for collectors. Additionally, selecting items graded by international third-party grading institutions such as PCGS or NGC is highly effective. These organizations conduct authenticity assessments based on strict standards and seal them in plastic cases with guarantees. You can verify authenticity by checking the serial number of the certificate against an online database. Guide to Sources and Methods of Obtaining Old Coins can also be referenced to establish safe purchase routes. On the other hand, personal transactions on internet auctions often lack authenticity guarantees, making negotiations for returns or compensation difficult. When purchasing high-priced items, always consult with multiple experts and be wary of items with unknown provenance or those offered "significantly below market value" (e.g., 20% below market price), as there may be a forgery risk. Conduct thorough information gathering and consideration before purchasing to avoid becoming a victim.
What to Do if You Become a Victim
If you suspect that you've purchased a forgery, a prompt and calm response is necessary. First, request a guarantee of authenticity from the source of purchase. Prepare to provide evidence of the transaction (email or chat history, product page, payment information), and if available, any appraisal results. If purchased from a JNDA member store, returns or compensation negotiations may be possible through consulting the association. Check the dispute resolution procedure on the JNDA website. When negotiations are challenging, such as with individual sellers, consider consulting a consumer center or exploring the option of a small claims court. In cases of significant financial loss, consulting the police for fraud charges should be considered, although substantial evidence is needed for affirmation. In any case, keeping thorough records of the purchase and any appraisal documents (if available) is crucial to demonstrate the damage. Once identified, it is imperative not to pass on the forgery to another collector, as it perpetuates secondary damage and should be avoided. Refer to Forgery and Altered Items Identification Guide to handle the situation calmly.
How to Improve Authenticity Judgment Skills
To improve authenticity determination skills, continually "handling and observing many authentic examples" is essential. Actively visit museum exhibits or inspect the inventory of reliable dealers to memorize their texture, weight, engraving, and patina through the senses. Utilizing expert literature is indispensable. Familiarize yourself with standard specifications and rarity using the "Japanese Coin Catalog," and build a knowledge foundation by learning detailed characteristics from specialized materials for each coin type. Additionally, repeatedly comparing certified images using online databases from institutions like PCGS or NGC can develop online authenticity judgment skills. Practical Guide to Coin Grading might also be informative. Participation in coin-specific study groups or trade fairs is highly recommended. These provide invaluable opportunities to learn directly from veteran collectors and dealers and to ask questions about any doubts. The "Authenticity Judgment Trio Set" comprising a precision scale, calipers, and a magnifying glass (10 to 20 times) can be assembled for a total of around 5,000 to 10,000 yen. Acquiring these tools early on and using them in daily observation will surely enhance your appraisal eye over time.