Found a Strange Old-Looking Coin in Your Sister’s Purse? Here’s What It Could Be

Can Do at Home

Look for text. Use a magnifying glass to check both sides and the rim for letters, numbers, a country name or the word “replica” or “copy.”

Check the weight and size. Compare it with a known coin. Many replicas are noticeably lighter or thicker than real ones.

Try a magnet. Gold and silver are not magnetic. If the coin sticks, it contains iron or steel and is not precious metal.

Look at the details. Real struck coins have sharp, crisp details. Cast copies often look slightly soft, bubbly or fuzzy.

Examine the wear. Natural wear shows on the highest points first. If the “aging” looks evenly dark everywhere, it may be artificial.

Run an image search. A photo search of both sides often leads straight to the game, shop or collection it came from.

So, Is It Worth Anything?

Most coins like this are worth very

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