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Message:: [QUOTE="IdesOfMarch01, post: 2653151, member: 39084"]I agree that everyone should feel comfortable to ask about, and reply to, threads about a coin's authenticity.  Sharing knowledgeable, (and even unknowledgeable) observations and opinions about coins is almost always a good learning experience, as long as it's done diplomatically and tactfully. It's always been my experience that being as specific and objective as possible minimizes the possibility of both misinterpretation and personal affront.  Using examples, showing portions of pictures to support one's opinions, etc., are the best way to accomplish this.  Taking the time to review and revise a post for clarity (as well as grammatical errors!) decreases the chance for confusion -- that "Huh?  What the hell does he/she mean by that?" reaction when you read a confusing post about a coin's authenticity. Finally, before clicking POST REPLY always ask yourself "If this were my coin would I feel insulted or attacked if I read this response?"  If the answer is even "Maybe" then don't post it until you've revised it.  While it's natural and somewhat inevitable for the coin's owner to feel a little bit sensitive about negative opinions, specific and tactful negative responses will almost always be understood for their usefulness.[/QUOTE]