Counterfeit Detection: Reuss-Schleiz 2 Talers

Heinrich LXII was a prince of a region in central Germany who ruled until 1854. Under his reign, Reuss-Schleiz 2 talers were issued starting in 1840. These relatively obscure coins can sell for hundreds of dollars, which helps explain why a counterfeiter would target them.

A genuine Germany 1853 Reuss-Schleiz 2 Talers. Click images to enlarge.

Two examples of purported Reuss-Schleiz 2 talers with different dates were sent to Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) in the same submission. Unfortunately, while the two silver coins were struck in the proper weight and composition, both were determined to be fake.

These spurious 2 talers were created using the sophisticated transfer-die counterfeit method. While the reverses have different dates and were struck using different counterfeit dies, the obverses were struck using the same die. We know this because repeating depressions show up in the exact same places. This means these marks can be traced back through the counterfeit die to imperfections present on the original coin.

In addition to repeating depressions on the obverses, these two counterfeits have an unnatural luster. Certain elements in the hair are softer than what would appear on actual Mint-State examples. Click images to enlarge.

Both fakes exhibit an odd, unnatural luster. In addition, the details are softer than expected. For example, elements present in the hair are similar to those that appear on the About Uncirculated genuine example shown here, even though the counterfeits appear to be Mint State.

Counterfeiters don’t limit themselves to the priciest and most famous rarities. They will target any opportunity where the profit outweighs the costs. Don’t forget that NGC backs its determinations of authenticity and grade with the NGC Guarantee.

Reproduced with permission from the June 2022 edition of The Numismatist, an official publication of the American Numismatic Association.

Did you know? NGC has created a comprehensive Counterfeit Detection resource to help collectors and dealers identify counterfeit and altered coins. Visit NGCcoin.com/counterfeit.