I saw this on ebay that had me wondering. I think it's a fake and to maybe report it. The seller is claiming that they have a 1944 steel cent in a supposed PCGS slab. But when I looked at the label, the font looked off to me (mainly the bottom numbers). I entered the number on the PCGS website to see if I was right and sure enough what came up was a regular 1944 cent. Am I correct that this is probably a fake and report it? The seller only has a feedback of 4 as well. https://www.ebay.com/itm/388053389467
A mid 5 figure coin with crappy photos and the slab hologram partially worn off, along with questionable fonts on the slab label. Add to all this a seller with 4 feedbacks. What could possibly go wrong?
Oh, yeah! After I posted on here I went back and read the description LOL : "Discover a piece of numismatic history with the 1944 Struck on Steel Plan Mint Error. This classic head large cent, dated 1944, features a unique error that adds to its collectible appeal. Minted in Philadelphia and certified by PCGS, this coin showcases the robustness of American currency with its 0.9 fineness and a strike type that presents a proof-like finish. The coin's color is a classic BN (brown), offering a vintage look and feel. Although its circulated/uncirculated status is unknown, the authenticity of this 1C denomination piece from the United States is unquestionable. Owning this coin is like holding a slice of Americana, complete with the intrigue of a minting error that sets it apart from the ordinary."
0.9 fineness of what? Chinese pot metal? It looks like the seller just threw out some random numismatic attributes and hoped some of them would stick.
I went to the Heratige website where it was once sold. It's the same slab https://www.pcgs.com/cert/03731830
Classic Ebay ChatGPT writeup cr*p almost as cringe worthy as some auction houses descriptions such as "traces of ochre on an autumnal morning contrasting with the steely blue dynamics on a superlative planchet enhanced by the time worn plastic of the 20 year old slab offering a misty mystique".
Who knows? The only difference I see is that the Cent moved within the slab. They do that. Rattlers is what they are called. I'm washing my hands on this one
That's great. I see the difference now. But the title of this thread stated "Not Sure" We are all just giving opinions.
Yeah, I don't blame you. The reason I post this stuff is I'm still trying to learn. I know a lot of you guys on here can tell a fake just by looking at the slab/label and I'm trying to get to that level.
Counterfeit slab so if the buyer looks it up, it comes back legit. EBay is a disgrace. The person who posted this listing, it is an intentional fraud a criminal act, but will they have their account removed? No.