Identifying counterfeit Morgan silver dollars involves examining various characteristics to determine authenticity. These characteristics include the coin’s weight, diameter, and thickness, as well as the sharpness and clarity of the design details. Specific attention is given to the mint mark, the smoothness of the fields, and any anomalies that might suggest casting or tooling. For example, a genuine Morgan dollar should weigh approximately 26.73 grams and have a diameter of about 38.1 millimeters. Discrepancies in these measurements are red flags.
Accurate identification of these forgeries protects collectors and investors from financial losses and preserves the integrity of the numismatic market. Historically, Morgan dollars represented a significant period in American coinage. Falsified examples undermine the historical and collectible value of legitimate coins. Consequently, verifying authenticity is crucial for maintaining value and trust.