Hi, Grateful for any fractional authorities here. Firstly I know that this is not an original fractional - even with a severely limited knowledge I know that. What I don't know is if it is actually gold at all or just a non gold fantasy piece. I have an option to return it tomorrow after doing some research but I'm struggling to find much. Grateful for your thoughts. It seems that the contemporary gold examples are collect able in their own right.
This is a modern replica - not any gold in it either. No real value to speak of so keep as a curiosity or give to the kids as "treasure." Something like this can spark a lifetime of numismatic pleasure.
Thanks both. I guess I was hopeful that the dealer knew more than the very little I did. Maybe he did! Either way, it goes back tomorrow. Whilst I was content that it was not an original fractional, it was sold as fine gold. As small as it is, it was never going to cost much but if it's not gold then it is not for me.
Most of these are not gold. A specific gravity test would tell. Here is an easy test for you. Take the coin from the holder and lay it flat on a smooth surface. If it is thicker than 3-4 sheets of paper, it is junk. These pieces can be purchased for less than a dollar on up depending on the knowledge/greed of the seller. Around the early part of the 20th century, much "finer" replicas were produced w/o the word "Dollar" or "Dol." on them. They are referred to as charms and at least two TPGS slab them as such. They are gold. I bought one decades ago for $2 before they became popular. Now they go for $$ - $$$ since the genuine pieces sell for $$$. Mike Locke has a web site on the replicas. When I was a kid, pieces like yours were in sets at the dime store.
Thanks. It is thin - far thinner than 3-4 sheets of paper - maybe one! I have had a look at Mike Lockes site and although difficult to see on a small screen, there are similar there. I guessed that there is less then 1/2 gram of gold in something so small and paid around that. He plans to be at a coin show tomorrow and already knows that I'm going. He may find it a joke, but maybe a small amount of guilt will make him consider an exchange or refund.
I have NEVER seen a replica as crude as this be that thin. Genuine fractionals and charms are struck w/sharply engraved dies. The relief on your piece is mushy. I do know the counterfeiters are putting a little gold in these things but those are much better looking and sharper than yours. That does not make them authentic. If you are a regular customer, you'll get a refund or best let him keep the money and use it as a credit. He surly will do that for you. If not, send it to a TPGS and when it comes back as bad, make him pay the additional cost or you will report him to the ANA. Hopefully he is a member.