The Most Commonly Counterfeited US Coins

Know Your Targets

Counterfeiters focus on coins where the payoff justifies the effort. Here are the most frequently counterfeited US coins with diagnostics for each.

Lincoln Cents

• 1909-S VDB — Most counterfeited cent. Often a 1909-S with added VDB or 1909 VDB with added S. Check letter shapes and mint mark position.
• 1914-D — Often from altered 1944-D. The "1" should have a serif; "9" has a specific shape.
• 1943 Copper — Most are copper-plated steel (magnetic) or altered 1948. Genuine: 3.11g, not magnetic.

Nickels & Dimes

• 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo — Often created by removing the leg. Genuine examples show specific die polishing marks and belly line thinning.
• 1916-D Mercury dime — Extremely commonly counterfeited. Many are 1916 Philadelphia with added D. Die diagnostics well-documented.

Silver Dollars

• 1893-S Morgan — Most counterfeited Morgan. Cast and die-struck fakes exist. Always buy certified.
• 1895 Morgan (Proof) — No business strikes known. Any non-proof is fake.
• CC Morgans — CC mint marks commonly added to Philadelphia or New Orleans coins.

Gold & Bullion

• $20 Saint-Gaudens/Liberty — High gold value makes these prime targets. Weight and specific gravity essential.
• American Silver Eagles — Counterfeit ASEs widespread online. Check weight (31.10g), diameter (40.6mm), reeding.

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