Anything can be counterfeited, it all depends on how many $$$$ Are involved, i would thing the motivating factor.
When buying Pamp Suisse items, look for the more recent Veriscan versions - it's a computerized data base / authentication system to verify each piece - also, buy from trusted dealers because even Veriscan bullion cards (and contents) are counterfeited.
My friend is looking at the 1-ounce Pamp Suisse bars....is this a good way to buy gold on the cheap ? Or are there above-average premiums on these bars ? Liquidity to sell them online or via a LCS can't be as good as American Eagles and other 1-ounce coins, or even Saints/Liberty's right ?
I dont have any GOLD bars , stick with Krugerrands and AGE,S as well as Buffalos Liberties and Saints for the GOLD and numismatic value , also as mentioned bars can be faked with tungsten have heard several stories over the yers as well as seeing this with my own eyes, hard to trust that.
Don’t purchase gold bars or rounds. Buy pre 1933 US Mint Gold coins instead. They are a much better price and the collector interest will always be present.
In NZ Pamp bars have a high premium so when the time comes to sell you will lose out. Also I beleive there are some fakes around.
There around every corner assays are easy to duplicate, no a certified coin thats much more difficult !