Are there fake or counterfeit wheat pennies?
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Should I be concerned about counterfeit wheat pennies, and how can I identify them?
Quillan
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Summary: What You’ll Actually Learn About Fake Wheat Pennies
If you’ve ever picked up a wheat penny at a flea market, estate sale, or even in your pocket change and wondered, “Could this be a fake?”—you’re in the right place. This article digs into the real risk of counterfeit wheat pennies, how to spot them, and what actually happens when fakes are discovered in the hobby. I’ll tell some stories from the trenches (including my own goofs), share what experts and official bodies like the American Numismatic Association (ANA) and the US Secret Service say, and walk you through practical identification with plenty of real-world detail. Plus, I’ll compare how different countries and agencies regulate “verified trade” for coins—because, yes, even an old penny can get very international.
Why Does Anyone Fake Wheat Pennies? (And Does It Matter to You?)
The honest truth: most wheat pennies are only worth their copper content. But a handful—like the 1909-S VDB or the 1943 copper penny—are worth thousands. That alone is enough to tempt counterfeiters. But when I first started coin collecting, I thought, “No way would someone bother to fake an old penny!” Wrong. In fact, fake wheat pennies have been reported in the US since at least the 1940s, according to US Secret Service records.
The real concern isn’t that every wheat penny is fake, but that it’s shockingly easy to fall for a convincing counterfeit—especially if you’re excited about a rare date. I once bought a “key date” 1914-D online that, after some scrutiny and a sheepish trip to my local coin shop, turned out to be a cleverly altered 1944-D (the 4 reshaped to look like a 1). So, yes, it does matter.
How Big Is the Problem?
According to the ANA’s Counterfeit Detection Program, Lincoln cents are among the most frequently altered and counterfeited US coins. The primary targets are:
- 1909-S VDB (worth up to $2,000+ in good condition)
- 1914-D
- 1922 “No D”
- 1943 copper (which shouldn’t exist—most were steel)
For the vast majority of wheat pennies, you won’t see fakes. But for any that would make a big difference to your wallet, it pays to be alert.
Hands-On: How to Spot Counterfeit or Altered Wheat Pennies
Let me walk you through the exact steps I use. (Yes, I’ve messed up before, and I’ll show you where.)
Step 1: Know the Key Dates (And What They Should Look Like)
Before you even start examining a coin, get familiar with the “hot” dates. There are tons of online charts (see the PCGS wheat penny value chart for reference). Print off or save clear photos of genuine coins. You’d be amazed how much your eye picks up after a few side-by-side comparisons.
Step 2: Magnification and Lighting—Your Best Friends
I use a simple 10x loupe, but you don’t even need that at first. Good sunlight or a desk lamp, plus your phone’s camera zoom, can reveal a lot. Look for:
- Tool marks: These look like tiny scratches around the date or mintmark—classic sign of an alteration.
- Odd surfaces: Fakes may have bubbly, pitted, or “cast” surfaces instead of the smooth, crisp lines of a genuine strike.
- Wrong fonts or spacing: For example, the “S” mintmark on a 1909-S VDB should be a specific size, shape, and position. PCGS and NGC have high-res photos to compare.
Real-life goof: The first time I tried this, I thought my 1909-S VDB was real because the “S” looked about right. Later, I learned there are subtle “micro S” and “large S” varieties, and mine didn’t match either. Oops. Always double-check with official sources.
Step 3: Weigh It (But Don’t Panic If It’s Off By a Hair)
An authentic wheat penny should weigh about 3.11 grams (for pre-1982 copper) or 2.7 grams (steel 1943s). If it’s way off (say, under 3.0g for a copper penny), that’s a red flag. I use a cheap digital gram scale (about $10 on Amazon). Once, I weighed a “1943 copper” find, and—big surprise—it was a steel penny painted brown. Magnet test confirmed it!
Above: My own kitchen scale setup. Don’t overthink it—precision isn’t everything, but huge discrepancies matter.
Step 4: Magnet Test (For 1943s Especially)
1943 wheat pennies are supposed to be steel (magnetic). If you have a “copper” 1943 that isn’t attracted to a magnet, congrats, maybe you’re holding a six-figure coin! (But don’t get your hopes up—99.9% are regular coins plated or altered.)
Step 5: Get a Second Opinion
If you’re ever in doubt, show your coin to a reputable dealer (find one via the ANA dealer directory) or submit it to a grading service like PCGS or NGC. They see fakes every week and will give you a straight answer. There’s no shame—most collectors have been fooled at least once.
Above: My local shop owner, John (who’s seen more fake 1914-D’s than real ones), checking a penny for a customer.
Who’s Policing Counterfeits—And How Do Countries Differ?
Here’s where it gets surprisingly complicated. In the US, the Secret Service is tasked with investigating counterfeit coins, though their focus is usually on paper money and high-value counterfeits. The ANA, PCGS, and NGC all offer detection services. But what about outside the US?
| Country | Verified Trade Standard | Legal Basis | Enforcement Agency |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | Collector and dealer authentication; grading services | 18 U.S. Code § 485 (Counterfeiting coins) | US Secret Service |
| United Kingdom | Royal Mint authentication, collector education | Forgery and Counterfeiting Act 1981 | Royal Mint, Trading Standards |
| China | State-approved grading and export-only for collectibles | Penal Code: Article 170 | Ministry of Public Security |
Sources: US Code, UK Law, Chinese Law
What’s wild is that US grading (PCGS, NGC) is trusted worldwide, but some countries require coins to be authenticated before export or trade at scale. I once tried to buy a rare Chinese copper coin on eBay, only to have it seized at customs—turns out, there are strict export controls in place!
Case Example: US vs. UK on “Verified Trade”
Dave, a UK-based collector (on CoinTalk), bought a pricey 1914-D wheat penny from a US dealer. When it arrived, he suspected the mintmark was added. In the UK, he could consult the Royal Mint’s authentication service, but for US coins, he had to ship it back to the States for PCGS grading—an expensive and time-consuming process. The result? The coin was deemed altered, and he barely recouped his costs.
This kind of hassle shows why regional standards and export rules matter. The US favors third-party grading; the UK leans on the Royal Mint; China regulates export tightly. If you’re dealing internationally, know the rules!
Industry Expert: What the ANA Says About Counterfeit Risks
I reached out to Doug Davis, Director of the ANA’s Anti-Counterfeiting Educational Foundation (ACEF). He told me: “The biggest issue today isn’t mass production of fake wheat pennies, but altered coins sold as rare dates. Most collectors get into trouble buying online without proper photos or provenance. If in doubt, buy certified.”
He also mentioned that the ACEF has seen an uptick in fakes from overseas sellers, especially on eBay and via social media. Their advice? Stick to reputable dealers and always check certifications.
Personal Take: What I’ve Learned (Sometimes the Hard Way)
After a few embarrassing mistakes (and some lucky saves), I’ve settled on a “trust but verify” approach. I don’t stress over common wheat pennies, but for any coin worth over $50, I check references, use my loupe and scale, and—if it’s a big purchase—insist on PCGS/NGC grading. It’s saved me from heartbreak more than once.
And remember: even professionals get fooled. The key is to keep learning, use the tools at your disposal, and never be afraid to ask for help.
Conclusion & Next Steps
So, are there fake or counterfeit wheat pennies? Absolutely—especially for key dates and valuable errors. Should you worry? Only if you’re buying high-value coins, and even then, a little knowledge and some basic tools go a long way. For most collectors, a careful eye and a healthy dose of skepticism are your best defenses.
If you’re serious about collecting, consider joining the ANA, learn from forums like CoinTalk, and don’t be shy about showing your coins to experts. And if you ever end up with what looks like a rare penny, do your due diligence before celebrating. Trust me—I’ve been there, and it’s worth the extra effort.
For more on coin authentication, see the official US Secret Service guidelines and the ANA’s updated detection resources.
Happy hunting—and keep your wheat pennies (real ones!) safe.
Max
User·
Quick Summary: Spotting Counterfeit Wheat Pennies and Trade Verification Nuances
Ever stumbled onto a wheat penny at a flea market and wondered, “Is this real or a clever fake?” You’re not alone. In the world of coin collecting, especially when it comes to wheat pennies, distinguishing genuine coins from counterfeits can be unexpectedly tricky. This article dives into why fake wheat pennies exist, how you might get fooled, and, crucially, how to avoid mistakes I’ve made myself. We’ll also detour into how different countries handle “verified trade” standards, since the authentication game isn’t just a US thing—internationally, the rules and agencies involved can vary wildly. I’ll share a real case where a collector lost out, sprinkle in advice from experts, and compare US and EU approaches to verification. If you want to collect with confidence and avoid being duped, this is for you.
Why Would Anyone Counterfeit Wheat Pennies?
Let’s start with a confession: I used to think faking wheat pennies was pointless. Most are worth pocket change, right? But after a chat with American Numismatic Association (ANA) expert David Crenshaw, I realized the real drivers are rarity and demand. Certain dates (hello, 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, 1922 plain) can fetch thousands—even tens of thousands—if in top condition. The incentive? Huge. According to the ANA’s 2022 counterfeit report, US coin fakes are on the rise, with wheat pennies being a “prime target” due to their collector appeal and simple design.
My First Encounter With a Suspect Wheat Penny
A few years ago, I bought a 1914-D wheat cent at a coin show. The price was shockingly reasonable. The dealer looked legit. Only after showing it to a seasoned collector friend did I learn the D mintmark was too thick—likely added later. That mistake cost me $120. Turns out, adding or removing mintmarks is a common scam, and it’s easier than you’d think (even with basic tools).
How Counterfeit Wheat Pennies Are Made
There are a few classic methods fakers use:
- Adding Mintmarks: Altering a common wheat cent by punching in a rare mintmark (like adding an “S” to a 1909 VDB), hoping to trick buyers.
- Complete Replication: Striking fake coins using molds or dies. Modern technology makes this easier than ever, especially with 3D scanning and printing.
- Surface Alterations: Plating a cheap penny to mimic an error coin (like trying to fake the 1943 copper penny).
The US Secret Service, which investigates currency fraud, has flagged online marketplaces as hotbeds for these scams. Their annual bulletin (2023) highlighted a surge in fake rare US coins, with wheat pennies specifically named.
Step-by-Step: How I Check for Counterfeit Wheat Pennies
Here’s my personal process, after getting burned and learning the hard way:
- Visual Comparison: I always compare the coin in question to high-res images from trusted sites (like PCGS CoinFacts). Look for font, spacing, and mintmark placement. Fakes often get these details subtly wrong.
[Screenshot: My screen with side-by-side images—real vs suspect penny] - Magnet Test: Real wheat pennies (1909-1958) are 95% copper, so they shouldn’t stick to a magnet. If yours does, it’s probably fake or altered. That said, this test won’t catch sophisticated fakes made with copper.
- Weight and Measurements: Using a digital scale, I check the coin’s weight (should be about 3.11g for most years). If it’s way off, red flag. I once weighed a supposed 1944 steel wheat penny—turned out it was a copper penny coated with steel, a common trick.
- Microscope or Loupe: Look for tool marks, weird texture, or doubling around the mintmark. Genuine coins have crisp, uniform details. I botched this step once, mistaking a nick for an added mintmark, so don’t rush.
- Certification Check: When in doubt, I check the coin’s certification with PCGS or NGC. If it’s slabbed, verify the serial number online. A friend of mine found a “slabbed” 1909-S VDB on eBay—turns out, the slab itself was fake, a trick the NGC has warned about.
What About “Verified Trade” and Authenticity Standards Globally?
If you’re buying (or selling) wheat pennies internationally, things get more complicated. Different countries have their own laws and agencies governing collectibles and certified trade. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Country/Region | Verification Name | Legal Basis | Enforcement Agency |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | Certified Numismatic Authentication | FTC Coin & Precious Metal Rule | FTC, US Secret Service |
| European Union | EU Cultural Goods Regulation | Regulation (EU) 2019/880 | Customs, National Heritage Agencies |
| China | Antique Coin Authentication | Cultural Relics Protection Law | State Administration of Cultural Heritage |
For example, while the US relies heavily on third-party grading companies (PCGS, NGC) and the US Mint’s guidance, the EU requires provenance paperwork for coins over a certain value, enforced by customs. This can lead to disputes if, say, a US-graded penny is shipped to France without adequate documentation. I’ve seen cases where coins get stuck in customs limbo for months, or even seized.
Case Study: Cross-Border Coin Confusion
In 2021, a German collector (let’s call him Alex) bought a certified 1909-S VDB penny from a US dealer. German customs flagged the shipment, demanding detailed provenance and proof the coin wasn’t stolen cultural property. Despite the NGC certificate, the process took six weeks and several hundred euros in legal fees. Alex told me by email: “I thought a US certificate would be enough, but EU rules are stricter. Next time, I’ll double-check paperwork.”
Expert Take: How Pros Catch Fakes
I interviewed numismatist Susan Headley (author on The Spruce Crafts) about her process. She says:
“The first thing I do is check the coin’s edges—counterfeiters often miss the tiny details there. I’ll also use a microscope to look for signs of tooling, especially around the date or mintmark. And I always trust, but verify, even slabbed coins. If a price seems too good to be true, it usually is.”
Common Mistakes and My Own Fails
Honestly, it’s easy to get cocky. I once skipped the scale test on a 1922 plain wheat penny (one of the rarest) because the seller seemed trustworthy. Later, I realized the coin’s color was off—too reddish. Turns out, some fakers artificially tone coins to mimic age, but the color doesn’t quite match real copper. Lesson learned: Always check every detail, no matter how experienced you are.
Conclusion and Practical Tips: Stay Vigilant, Be Skeptical
Counterfeit wheat pennies are definitely out there, mostly targeting big-ticket dates. If you’re just starting out, don’t panic—most common wheat pennies aren’t worth enough to attract fakers. But for rare dates or condition rarities, take every precaution:
- Compare to certified images and specs
- Use a magnet and scale
- Scrutinize mintmarks and surfaces under magnification
- Prefer certified coins from reputable graders
- If buying internationally, research both the seller and the destination country’s certification requirements (check WCO Cultural Heritage Program)
Final thought: Even pros get burned sometimes. The best you can do is learn, double-check, and don’t let a good deal blind you. If you want to dig deeper, I highly recommend the ANA’s guide on counterfeit detection (here). Happy hunting, and may your next wheat penny find be the real deal.
Kirk
User·
Spotting Fake Wheat Pennies: Can You Really Trust That Old Coin?
Wheat pennies can be worth a fortune or just a few cents. But with value comes risk: are there counterfeit wheat pennies? Should you really worry about getting scammed? In this article, I’ll walk you through real-life checks, expert advice, and a few stories from the trenches—so you can spot a fake before it burns a hole in your wallet.
Quick Summary
Yes, there are fake wheat pennies out there, especially for rare dates (like the 1909-S VDB or 1914-D). You absolutely should care if you collect, buy, or sell wheat pennies. I'll show you practical steps to spot counterfeits, what mistakes I've seen (and even made), and how experts and laws view the problem. There's even a comparison of how different countries define and enforce "verified" coin trade.
Wheat Pennies: Why Would Anyone Fake Them?
If you’re new to coin collecting, “wheat penny” refers to US one-cent pieces minted between 1909 and 1958, with two stalks of wheat on the reverse. Most of these are worth pocket change—but a handful (like the 1909-S VDB) can fetch thousands of dollars.
And where there’s money, there are fakes. According to US Secret Service reports, counterfeiting rare coins is a real and growing issue. Some fakes are so good that even seasoned dealers get fooled. But for common wheat pennies? Not worth the counterfeiter’s time.
Step-by-Step: How To Spot a Counterfeit Wheat Penny
Let’s get into the weeds (pun intended): here’s my actual process, including a couple of blunders and a few screenshots from forums where people have posted their own horror stories.
1. Know Which Dates Are Faked Most Often
If you see a 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, or 1922 plain (no mint mark), raise your eyebrows. According to PCGS (one of the top coin grading services), these are the most counterfeited wheat pennies. The same goes for any penny supposedly worth more than $100.
2. Weight and Size: The “Kitchen Scale” Test
Real wheat pennies (1909–1942) should weigh about 3.11 grams, and later ones (1943 steel) about 2.7 grams. I grabbed my own cheap kitchen scale—highly scientific, I know—and checked a supposed 1914-D I bought at a flea market. It weighed 2.9 grams. That’s a red flag: it’s either worn down (plausible), or it’s a fake.
Screenshot from my kitchen scale test—notice the digital readout. If your penny is way off, something’s up.
3. Magnification: Looking for Tool Marks
Counterfeiters will often alter common-date pennies to add a rare mintmark. Under 10x magnification, you can sometimes see tool marks or evidence that the “S” or “D” was glued or punched on. I learned the hard way: I bought a 1914-D from an online seller, and under my $8 Amazon loupe, you could see a faint outline where the “D” was added. Rookie mistake, but at least it didn’t cost me much.
A collector’s forum user posted this: under magnification, the “S” looks suspiciously added. Source: Coin Community Forum.
4. Compare With Verified Photos
Sites like PCGS CoinFacts and NGC Coin Explorer have huge databases of genuine coin images. When I was stumped by a 1922 penny, I lined it up next to high-res images from PCGS. The lettering and spacing were off—another giveaway.
5. Get a Second Opinion (or a Third)
If you suspect a fake, ask a reputable coin dealer—ideally one who’s a member of the American Numismatic Association (ANA). I once brought a suspicious penny to three different shops. The first two shrugged, but the third pulled out a microscope and confirmed it was a clever fake. Lesson: not all “experts” are equal.
What the Law Says: Official Stance on Counterfeit Coins
Counterfeiting US coins is a federal crime. According to 18 U.S. Code § 485, producing or passing fake coinage is punishable by up to 15 years in prison. The US Secret Service investigates, and major grading companies cooperate on detection. Internationally, the World Customs Organization also tracks and intercepts counterfeit coin shipments.
Trade Standards: How “Verification” Differs by Country
Now, here’s where it gets weird. Not every country treats “verified trade” the same way. I put together a quick table, based on data from the OECD Handbook on the Detection of Fake Goods and WTO documents.
| Country | Verification Standard | Legal Basis | Enforcing Body |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | Third-party grading required for high-value coin trade | 18 U.S. Code § 485 | US Secret Service, Customs, Grading Companies |
| EU | CE marking and import/export lab testing | Regulation (EU) 608/2013 | Customs, Police, National Mints |
| China | State-run authentication for export and auction | Anti-Unfair Competition Law | China Customs, Ministry of Public Security |
| UK | Royal Mint authentication, import controls | Forgery and Counterfeiting Act 1981 | Royal Mint, Border Force |
Case Study: A Tale of Two Pennies
Let me share a real forum story. In 2021, a collector named “Ken” posted on Coin Community about a 1909-S VDB penny he bought on eBay for $1,200. It looked perfect, but when he sent it for grading at PCGS, they flagged it as “altered.” Turns out, the “S” had been carefully added to a regular 1909 VDB penny—a classic fake. Ken was lucky: eBay’s buyer protection policy saved him, but not everyone is so fortunate.
On the flip side, I once bought a 1922 penny that looked off. The color was weird, and the details felt “soft.” After checking with a dealer, turns out it was a real 1922 “No D”—just heavily worn. So, sometimes a “fake” is just a coin with a tough life.
Expert Take: Why It’s Getting Harder to Spot Fakes
I chatted (virtually) with Michael Fahey, a senior grader at ANACS (America’s oldest coin grading service). Here’s a paraphrase:
“We see new counterfeiting methods every year—laser engraving, high-res 3D printing, you name it. Even experienced collectors get fooled. The best defense is third-party certification, or at least comparing your coin against high-quality reference images.”
He also pointed out that FBI reports estimate the global market in fraudulent collectibles exceeds $6 billion annually. Coins are a small slice, but for rare wheat pennies, the risk is real.
Conclusions & What To Do Next
Yes, fake wheat pennies exist. If you’re hunting for rare dates, be cautious—especially on online marketplaces and at flea markets. Use a scale, a magnifier, and reference photos. Don’t hesitate to get a second (or third) opinion. If you’re buying anything worth over $100, insist on third-party certification from PCGS, NGC, or ANACS.
If you’re just collecting for fun, and not spending big, relax. Most fakes target high-value coins. But it’s still worth learning the basics—nothing stings like realizing you paid too much for a clever fake.
My final tip: join a collector’s forum, or visit a local coin club. You’ll learn from others’ mistakes (and trust me, there are plenty). If you want to dig deeper, check out the ANA’s guide to counterfeit coins and the PCGS warning list.
Author bio: I’ve been collecting US coins since 2004, with a focus on Lincoln cents. I’ve made my share of mistakes (ask me about the time I bought a “rare” penny at a gas station). My advice comes from personal experience and a lot of time spent on collector forums, plus interviews with grading experts. For more, check my references or reach out on Coin Community Forum.
References: PCGS: Fake Wheat Cents, ANA: Counterfeit Coins, 18 U.S. Code § 485, WCO
Luna
User·
How to Spot Fake Wheat Pennies: My Real-World Experience & Expert Advice
Summary: This article will help you recognize and avoid counterfeit wheat pennies. I'll walk you through hands-on steps, share my personal attempts (successes and failures!), provide expert insights, and show you exactly what to look for—whether you're a casual collector or someone eyeing a high-value find. We'll cover practical detection, real regulations, and what you should do if you spot a fake. Plus, a quick look at international "verified trade" standards for coins—because, yes, the rules can change from country to country!
Why Care About Counterfeit Wheat Pennies?
Wheat pennies, especially rare dates like the 1909-S VDB or the 1943 copper, can be worth hundreds to thousands of dollars (see any wheat penny value chart from PCGS). But where there’s value, there are fakes. I still remember the first time I found a 1944 wheat penny in my change as a kid and went down the rabbit hole—was it valuable? Could it be a rare steel cent? Or, horror of horrors, could it be fake?
Are Fake Wheat Pennies a Real Problem?
Absolutely. The American Numismatic Association (ANA) and the US Secret Service have both issued warnings about the prevalence of counterfeit coins in circulation, especially for high-value types. According to ANA's Numismatic Crime Information Center, fakes range from crude copies to near-perfect forgeries made with advanced methods.
But here’s the thing: not every wheat penny is worth faking. Most in average condition (think pocket change finds) are worth a few cents to a few dollars. But rare dates and error coins (e.g., 1943 copper, 1955 doubled die) are prime targets. I’ve seen slabs at coin shows with “buyer beware” stickers—yes, even from reputable dealers!
How to Identify Fake Wheat Pennies (With Actual Steps and My Own Goofs)
So, how do you spot a fake? Let’s go through the process I use—plus a couple of mistakes I made, so you can avoid them.
1. Check the Date and Mintmark Combo
This is the fastest way to spot obvious fakes. Some date/mintmark combos were never produced. For example, there’s no such thing as a 1943-D copper penny—or a 1909-S with no VDB initials. If you see these, be suspicious.
Screenshot from PCGS CoinFacts:
I once got excited over a "1943-S copper" at a flea market—until a quick PCGS check showed it was likely a steel coin plated with copper. Oops.
2. Look Closely at the Surface and Details
Real wheat pennies have sharp, well-defined lettering and details. Fakes often have mushy or uneven surfaces, odd color, or tool marks. I use a cheap digital microscope (like this one, under $30) and—trust me—once you see a real versus a fake under magnification, you’ll know the difference.
My tip: Compare your coin to high-res images from PCGS CoinFacts or NGC. If the font, spacing, or wheat stalks look off—something’s up.
3. Test the Metal—Especially for 1943 and 1944 Pennies
Here’s where I messed up: I found a “1944 steel penny” and was thrilled—until a magnet stuck to it. That’s a dead giveaway. Only 1943 cents were made from steel; 1944s should be copper. If you have a 1943 that doesn’t stick to a magnet, or a 1944 that does—red flag!
Pro tip: Use a tiny magnet. If you’re really serious, get an XRF analyzer at a local coin shop or show (they sometimes have one). But usually, a magnet tells you what you need to know.
4. Check for Altered Coins
Some fakes aren’t full counterfeits—they’re real wheat pennies with altered dates or mintmarks. The infamous “1944-D” steel cent is usually a 1944 copper penny with a steel coating, or a 1943-D with the last digit changed. Look for tooling marks, suspicious color changes, or signs of filing near the date. Under magnification, the numbers may look uneven or the surface may be scratched up.
5. Get a Second Opinion
Even after years in the hobby, I still sometimes can’t tell for sure. That’s when I go to a coin shop or send the coin to a grading service. PCGS, NGC, and ANACS are the gold standards in the US. You can check their authentication policies directly (PCGS Verify).
6. Check Serial Numbers on Slabs
If you buy a graded coin in a plastic slab, check the serial number on the official site. Fakes sometimes use fake slabs! I almost bought a “certified” 1909-S VDB, but the PCGS number didn’t match their database. Here's an actual forum thread discussing this issue: CoinTalk: PCGS Slabbed 1909-S VDB Fake.
What Do the Experts Say?
I reached out to a local coin dealer, Mike at Liberty Coins, who’s been in the industry for 40+ years. His take: “Counterfeits are getting better every year. I’ve seen fakes that fooled experienced collectors. If you’re not sure, don’t buy unless it’s certified, and even then, check the certification number yourself.”
The US Secret Service, which actually has jurisdiction over counterfeit coins, recommends reporting suspected fakes (see their official guidance: US Secret Service: Counterfeit Coin Guidance). If you find one, you’re not legally allowed to sell it—turn it in!
International Trade & "Verified" Standards for Coins
It’s not just a US thing. Different countries have their own standards for what counts as a “verified” or authentic collectible coin. Here’s a quick comparison table based on public regulations:
| Country | Standard Name | Legal Basis | Enforcement Agency |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | Hobby Protection Act | 15 U.S.C. §§ 2101-2106 | US Secret Service, FTC |
| EU | EU Regulation No. 1210/2010 | European Union Law | Europol, national customs |
| China | Antique & Cultural Relics Law | 中华人民共和国文物保护法 | 国家文物局 |
| UK | Forgery and Counterfeiting Act 1981 | UK Law | Royal Mint, HMRC |
For actual legal text in the US, see: Hobby Protection Act (FTC). The law requires all imitation coins to be clearly marked “COPY.”
A Real Case: US and EU Disagreement on Coin Imports
In 2019, a US-based coin dealer tried to import a batch of certified US wheat pennies into Germany. German customs seized part of the shipment, requiring additional documentation about authenticity and provenance under EU law (see CoinWorld report). The coins were eventually released, but only after the dealer provided third-party grading certification and proof of origin—highlighting that “verified” can mean different things in different countries.
What Should You Do if You Suspect a Fake?
If you think you’ve found a counterfeit wheat penny, don’t try to sell it. US law (and most international laws) prohibit knowingly selling or distributing fakes. Bring it to a coin dealer, grading service, or law enforcement. And don’t panic: most “finds” are just altered or plated coins, not high-quality counterfeits.
Final Thoughts & Next Steps
So—should you worry about fake wheat pennies? If you’re collecting common coins from circulation, probably not. But if you’re buying rare dates, especially online or at shows, be careful. Use the steps above, trust but verify, and when in doubt, ask an expert.
If I could go back and give myself advice, it would be: Don’t get so excited over a “find” that you forget to check the basics. One quick magnet test would have saved me hours of research on a steel-plated “copper” penny. And don’t be afraid to ask for help—there’s a whole community (CoinTalk, PCGS forums, local clubs) that loves solving these mysteries.
For more, check out:
Author background: I’ve been collecting (and sometimes screwing up) with coins for over 15 years, with hands-on experience in US and international coin markets, and have contributed to several collector forums and publications. All regulatory links and expert quotes are verifiable.
Eldon
User·
Summary: Why Counterfeit Wheat Pennies Are a Real Concern (and What You Can Actually Do)
If you’re knee-deep in wheat pennies, obsessively checking every date and mint mark with a loupe, you’ve probably wondered: are there fakes out there? Can someone really fake such a little copper coin, and should you be worried? This article tackles these questions head-on, steering clear of the usual "yes/no" answers and instead diving into the real-life scenarios, mistakes, and the nitty-gritty of spotting counterfeits. You’ll get practical tips, learn from industry experts, and see how different countries handle coin authentication. Plus, I’ll share a personal story where I got it wrong—and what I learned in the process.Why Counterfeit Wheat Pennies Exist (And Why It’s Not Always Obvious)
Let’s get one thing out of the way: not every wheat penny is worth counterfeiting. Most are only worth a few cents, but a select handful—think 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, or the infamous 1943 copper penny—can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. That’s where the trouble begins. Here’s the twist: most counterfeits aren’t made from scratch. Instead, clever folks alter less valuable pennies to mimic rare ones. For example, they might add a mintmark to a common 1909 penny to create a "1909-S VDB," or file down a 1948-D to look like a 1943 copper penny. The first time I encountered one, it was at a local coin show in Chicago. The dealer swore up and down it was genuine, but something felt off—more on that later.Quick Reality Check: How Big Is the Problem?
According to the American Numismatic Association (ANA), counterfeiting of rare U.S. coins—including wheat pennies—has been a recognized issue for decades (ANA: Numismatic Crime). While not as widespread as fake silver dollars or gold coins, there’s enough of a market to keep the counterfeiters in business.Step-by-Step: How to Spot a Counterfeit Wheat Penny (With Screenshots and Real-World Examples)
I’ll walk you through my own process, including the slip-ups. I once bought a "1914-D" wheat penny on eBay for $90—a steal, I thought. But after a closer look, and some expert advice, I realized I’d been had.-
Check the Mintmark (If Any)
Most altered coins involve mintmarks. Real Denver (D) or San Francisco (S) marks are punched at a slightly different angle or depth than Philadelphia coins. Use a strong magnifier (10x loupe works) and look for:- Odd spacing between letters/numbers
- Different color or texture around the mintmark (signs of tampering)
- Mintmark looks "sunk in" or raised unnaturally
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Weight and Dimensions
Real wheat pennies (1909-1958) weigh about 3.11 grams. Fakes may use lighter or heavier blanks. A cheap jeweler’s scale (<$20 on Amazon) is worth every penny. Personal Tip: I once found a "1943 copper penny" that weighed 2.8 grams. Turned out, it was a steel penny chemically altered to look coppery. Oops. -
Metal Composition Tests
Wheat pennies should be 95% copper (except 1943, which are steel). A basic magnet test works: 1943 steel pennies stick, copper ones don’t. But beware—some fakes use copper-plated steel. For more serious checking, XRF analyzers can read the metal composition, but that’s not exactly a kitchen table tool. -
Professional Grading and Authentication
If you’re spending serious money, get the coin authenticated by PCGS, NGC, or ANACS. These organizations use advanced forensic tools, and their slabs add resale value and peace of mind. The Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) has a cert verification tool—you can enter the slab number and see if it matches PCGS’s record. -
Ask in Collector Forums
Before buying, I now always post photos on forums like Coin Community or Collectors Universe. There’s always someone who’s seen more fakes than you—and they’re pretty blunt about it.
Global Perspective: How Do Other Countries Handle Coin Authentication?
You might wonder if this is just a U.S. problem. Actually, the approach to “verified trade” and authentication varies worldwide. Here’s a quick comparison table I compiled after digging through OECD and WCO documents:| Country/Region | Authentication Standard Name | Legal Basis | Enforcement Agency |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | PCGS/NGC/ANACS Certification | Hobby Protection Act (Public Law 93-167) | FTC, Secret Service, ANA |
| Canada | RCM Authentication, ICCS | Royal Canadian Mint Act | Royal Canadian Mounted Police |
| EU | Euro Coin Verification (Council Regulation EC No 1338/2001) | European Law | National Central Banks |
| China | China Gold Coin Incorporation (CGCI) Verification | People’s Bank of China Regulations | State Administration of Market Regulation |