How to Tell Real from Fake Medieval Gold Coins

Verifying the legitimacy of historic gold coins requires careful observation and a basic understanding of historical context. Start with assessing the coin’s dimensions and weight. Gold coins from the Middle Ages adhered to precise minting conventions based on era and location. The standard weight of a Byzantine solidus was about 4.5 grams, while a Florentine florin was about 3.5 grams. If the coin’s mass falls far outside accepted ranges, it’s likely a modern imitation.

Examine the artwork and minting details. Authentic coins were struck by hand using dies, so they often show slight irregularities in alignment, depth, and detail. Counterfeit coins often appear unnaturally crisp and identical. Observe how wear has naturally developed over time. Genuine coins will have natural wear on the high points of the design, such as the ruler’s face or crown, while fakes may have artificially worn surfaces that look uneven or painted on.

Check the metal composition. The gold used in genuine medieval coins was highly refined, often exceeding 90% purity. Modern counterfeits may use lower purity gold or even gold-plated base metals. Scientific analysis using XRF or chemical testing verifies authenticity. You can instantly detect ferrous imitations by testing whether the coin is attracted to a magnet, since pure gold repels magnetic fields.

Examine the inscribed legends. Medieval coins often feature Latin or regional scripts that follow specific conventions of the era. Be alert to incorrect letterforms, irregular spacing, or symbols that didn’t exist in the claimed period. If the typography matches a later century than the coin’s supposed date, it’s almost certainly counterfeit.

Consider the patina and surface condition. Authentic coins develop a natural patina over centuries, often appearing slightly dull or mottled. Steer clear of coins that gleam unnaturally or show signs of recent mechanical polishing. Exercise caution with coins that are unnaturally pristine despite being labeled as "excavated".

Research the provenance. A coin with a traceable chain of custody from auction houses, museums, or academic digs is far more trustworthy. Be skeptical of coins offered without documentation or from sellers with no reputation in numismatics. Trusted vendors supply COAs and cite authoritative references like the Sylloge or MEC.

Finally, consult experts. When in doubt, bring the coin to a trained numismatist or a curator アンティークコイン focused on medieval currency. They can compare it to known examples and use specialized tools to detect modern minting techniques or alterations. Because authentic pieces are both rare and highly prized, thorough verification is a non-negotiable step in acquisition.