Hi Everyone, So I've been wanting one of these dragon dollars for a while, but the graded ones were a bit overpriced. This specimen came up for auction in a reputable Japanese auction, so I thought I would take a shot. I'm trying to verify authenticity and grade, but I can't seem to find any resources or websites for that. It will be going to PCGS, I would appreciate any thoughts and comments on resources and it's authencity. P.S. its 26.83 grams. Many Thanks, Peter Z
I do not know much about these, but do know that counterfeits are abundant. The trouble for me is that some of the real ones look fake. It's that lettering. You see it so often on modern counterfeits, but some of the early 20th century (authentic) coins have similar lettering. I see lettering like that and it immediately screams "MADE IN CHINA" at me. Which is an automatic kiss of death if you're looking at what's supposed to be a USA Bust or Trade dollar, but of course when it's seen on a coin that's actually supposed to have been made in China ... well ... then it doesn't necessarily mean the coin is fake. (Might be, might not be.) Good luck at PCGS. Hopefully it'll pass muster. I assume they have qualified staff on material like this, since they've had a branch operating in China for a while now.
China is not my specialty but it looks right to me. The weight is in line also. Make sure you give an update when it comes back from the TPG.
Thanks for the comments, anyone else with views, or anyone with info on how I can better attribute Chinese Silver Coins. Many Thanks, Peter Z
I believe it is genuine. Unfortunately with Chinese numismatic, you have to become an expert. Previously people on forums used to be generous enough to point out what the diagnosis are for counterfeits bit these crooks are smart to use them as free education to improve their wares. It's a sad world. My best advice is to pull up old threads and learn as much as you can. Be prepared to get burned out if you come across counterfeits - I have learned it the hard way but it has helped me in the long run.
Regardless of it being a cleaned example, this particular coin is getting hard to find. A problem free even in F condition does command good 3 figures.
Yes, pretty happy that this turned out to be genuine. In the same submission to PCGS, there was also a 1908 Chinese Dollar, XF Details (Graffiti). Trueviews below,
