I looked up the cert number on pcgs and found the same number sold at auction but the slabs are different. I would never buy a coin like this off craigslist but a guy answered a coin ad I had and asked if I wanted to buy it. I am not talented enough to spot a fake but wouldn't that be the logical conclusion?Here are the photos from auction (I assume these photos would be legit):
Not only are the "slabs" (and certification info) different, that's a different coin than the one that was sold by Heritage. Check the wear in the hair below the crown and above the ear (behind the forehead) to see what I mean.
If this were a legitimate example, the owner would not need to resort to answering CL ads to sell. If anything like here, he is probably just making the rounds. Did he at least give a good story?
here is the CL post (SFBay Area): I have to sell this coin to pay other expenses. Hopefully it can be enjoyed in one of your collections. The 1893-s Silver Dollar has been certified by PCGS and comes in the sealed and labeled holder. If you are looking at this ad you probably know how rare these are, especially in this condition. It is a truly beautiful piece. The PCGS certificate number is 5477599. Make me an offer. Shoot me an email. I usually reply promptly. Thanks.
Here are some more closeups of the craigslist version. So what do you think this is, a fake coin, altered coin in fake slab, neither?
Completely fake slab and coin. I have seen several of these lately. They have just started popping up.
