Perhaps the main problem for investors in gold coins is dealing with fake gold coins. As a buyer you have to be very careful especially if you collect rarer pieces. Regrettably, the counterfeiting methods have evolved a lot with the development of technology, but the good news is that there are also techniques that you can use to spot fakes. You should not hesitate to use all of them.

Weighing and Measuring Gold Coins

The simplest way in which you can recognize a fake gold coin is to measure its weight. It should correspond to exactly the same Troy ounce measure stated by the official mint. The exact numbers are available in catalogues and guides as well. In order to measure the weight of gold accurately, you need a precise scale. If the weight of the gold coin is even slightly more or less than the actual one, then it may well be a fake.

Along with the weighing, you should also measure the piece. It should have a precise diameter and thickness. Again you can easily find the official measurements of the original. Generally, it is easier for the coin’s diameter to be forged than its thickness, so you should pay careful attention to the latter measure in particular.

Gold Density Test

This type of testing produces extremely reliable results since gold’s density cannot be faked in any way. Given the specific density of the precious metal it has a specific gravity. There are a number of specific physics tests that you can perform, but these require sufficient knowledge and the taking of precise measurements. Alternatively, you can get a commercial counterfeit detector that can measure everything for you. It gives the precise size, weight and thickness of gold coins. You have to decide whether you can afford to invest in such an apparatus.

Coin Examination

Since you are into collecting (investing in) gold coins you have to be able to recognize them. You have to learn everything about the design and its specifics. When you appraise coins, you simply have to apply all your knowledge to spot whether a coin is a fake or not. Make sure you examine every single element carefully using a magnifying glass. You should not hesitate to hold the coin to feel its weight and size. You can even bite it to make sure the metal is soft just like real gold should be. As you gain knowledge and experience, it will be easier for you to recognize fakes. Just remember to use an up-to-date guide that can help you in the appraisal.