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Recently, the numismatic market has seen an increase in the number of copies and forgeries that dishonest sellers pass off as originals. Counterfeits of the 1901 ten-ruble coin are particularly common, so special vigilance should be exercised when handling it.
Recently, the numismatic market has seen an increase in the number of copies and forgeries that dishonest sellers pass off as originals. Counterfeits of the 1901 ten-ruble coin are particularly common, so special vigilance should be exercised when handling it.
To learn how to identify a counterfeit, it's important to study what an authentic specimen looks like. As an example, we can examine a 10-ruble gold coin from 1899 in good condition. This specimen has no significant wear, allowing for a clear view of all key details.
When examining a coin for authenticity, the first thing to pay attention to is the detail of the image on the obverse. On an original coin, all elements are executed with high precision and clarity.
| Feature | Description |
| Error on the edge | Instead of the original mintmaster's initials 'ФЗ' (FZ), fakes may have other letters, such as 'АГ' (AG). |
| Purpose of the error | This was done so that 'insider' collectors could distinguish the copy from the original. |
Besides simple copies, there are also higher-quality forgeries made of gold. Such specimens were produced, for example, in Italy and Poland. Their main feature is that they are made of a lower-purity gold, such as 750 (18k) or even 700 fineness, whereas the original has a 900 fineness (21.6k).
Such coins often have intentional differences so that experienced numismatists can recognize them. One such feature is an error in the edge inscription.
The reverse of the coin depicts the coat of arms of the Russian Empire. As with the obverse, high detail is important here. On an authentic coin, the coat of arms is in high relief and not worn down, indicating good preservation.
To examine these elements in detail, it is recommended to use a magnifying glass (loupe). If all small details are present and well-executed, this is a strong argument for the coin's authenticity.
The edge inscription is one of the most difficult elements to counterfeit. It is often by the edge that a copy can be unmistakably identified. On an original coin, the letters on the edge are very thin and not deeply impressed.
On fakes, however, the letters are usually enormous, being 2-3 times thicker than the originals. They are also very deeply impressed into the metal. Furthermore, on copies, the letters often 'dance': one might be close to the top edge, another to the bottom, disrupting the straight line of the inscription. On the original, the letters are thin, even, and neat, although they might be slightly off-center.
The most important criterion that helps to dispel doubts is the weight of the coin. The standard weight for a 10-ruble gold coin of this period is 8.6 grams.
If the coin's weight differs significantly from the standard (e.g., 8.8 grams) or, conversely, is 8.5 grams while in perfect condition, this is a serious reason to doubt its authenticity. With experience also comes a tactile sense—gold feels different in the hand than other metals.
The main rule when buying antiques is that if there is even the slightest doubt about an item's authenticity, it is better to refuse the deal. It is recommended to purchase valuable specimens from trusted sellers, on specialized forums, or at collector societies.
When buying, always ask the seller for a guarantee of authenticity. A reputable seller should guarantee a refund if the item turns out to be not original. To check the fineness, you can consult a jeweler, but under no circumstances should you allow them to make cuts or test the metal with acid, as this will damage the collectible item.
