Poll Question: Do you think counterfeit detection is getting better or worse with modern technology? Why?

I am unsure if the detection is better, but there are many counterfeit coins out there to be purchased online. I know someone who purchased a Morgan Carson City fake. I noticed immediately that there were no markings on the face. None. It was pristine. He purchased it for $24.95 and wants to have the website shut down. He said they are even making fake coin holders with NGC and PCGS that are identical to the eye. This needs to be stopped. 

Name and Address withheld

I think technology is permitting better counterfeits, which are increasingly difficult to detect.

Elizabeth Griffin, Address withheld

I believe counterfeit detection is getting better with the amount of publicity and training sessions for detection. Keep it up!

Ken, Germantown

WORSE. The technology goes for both the good and the bad sides of the issue. It is getting harder and harder to detect a counterfeit coin or note by sight and feel. The weight of the coin is almost always closer to the natural weight of the mint coin. Looks alone can be deceiving. On the good side, the patina, luster, clad, and feel are very hard to manipulate and duplicate. Therefore, experienced numismatists, dealers, and law enforcement with knowledge of the issues of modern counterfeiting are definitely of the good. Online sites such as eBay, Etsy, Amazon, and others are often seen as first responders and should be held accountable to their clients, both sellers and buyers of counterfeit coins and notes. Online commerce is a great business source and let us keep it that way!

The Q-Crew, Idaho 

The question of the week seems easy to answer. Still as easy as ever to buy counterfeit Morgan dollars from China on eBay that do not have “copy” on them and with prices way under the price of silver. I’m not sure why eBay still allows these very realistic-looking fakes.

Doug, Address withheld