How Do You Identify Real Gold Coins?
The key to identifying real gold coins lies in the fact that gold is far denser than most other metals. This makes a really good counterfeit virtually impossible because a coin of the right volume won’t weigh enough to be real gold. The method described here to identify real gold coins was discovered by the Greek mathematician Archimedes around 250 BCE, but it’s still the easiest way to identify real gold coins or bullion and it works with pure gold or gold alloy coins. Determine if the coin is supposed to be 22K or 24K gold. Pure (24K) gold is extremely soft and easily damaged, so most coins are alloyed with another metal to harden them. There are some exceptions like the American Buffalo gold coin. To check a coin’s composition look it up in any good numismatic catalogue such as those available online from professional coin grading services (see links under Resources). Place water in a graduated measuring container (the type used in chemistry labs is perfect). Note the exact volume o
