Yep, one of the best ways to tell is weigh it. If you don't have a scale, get one from eBay, they're inexpensive. And, measure it. If it's the correct weight and size, probably genuine. Counterfeiters don't like to use precious metals.
Not sure what a powder scale is - I can only imagine. Any scale that weighs grams would work. Mine only weighs to a 10th gram, but one that weighs to 100th gram would be nice, but more expensive. Then compare the weight to that given in The Red Book. A trade Dollar should weigh 27.22 grams with a diameter of 38.1 mm.
Weight is weight. There are threads on mass here, also. EUREKA, I've lost it! Or words to that affect....effect.....whatever.:hammer:
i guess powder scale for reloading would measure grains not grams. not sure if there is an accurate conversion or not. how far off are fake coins? <1 gram?
And a real 420 grain TD weighs in at 27.2155g. Since they were intended for use as a known weight of silver, tolerances were pretty tight, and a planchet 8% too light would never have made it out of the Mint. Look at the difference between the ones at the top and the ones at the bottom. Especially in a scan which is looking straight on at the coin, the denticles should be the same length and weight completely around the circumference.
I'm certain it's a fake. The dentils are irregular, and very weak in spots. other problems TNTC (too numerous to count).