I recently bought this coin online - I have always wanted an Edward VI Shilling to start a hammered collection hence I am a little unsure on spotting a fake. It has been poorly cleaned, has a few dents. The seller has stated when he was visiting London he asked in a coin shop and was told it is legit. Can anyone see any warning signs?
Thank you
Yes i think what put me off was very small pitting top left bust side the seller advised me he was told the coin was poorly cleaned which contributed to this, I really like the coin i know it is not a great example but a good start to my collection hopefully this is a better picture ill upload in one minute also a pic of the edge which i read can be a problem if too thick which is a tell tale sign of casting?
The first thing that seemed odd was the blatant obverse double strike yet the reverse looks normal. There are other minor reverse fine details issues when comparing to Spink image of this coin, but it still does not rule out if it is genuine or not. Comparing obverse is pointless at that grade, there are many different obverse varieties according to Spink, but that double strike with mismatches would put me off.
The last thing I would say is not that it has been cleaned harshly, in fact it looks just the opposite to me and that the dirt/toning is added.
I hope my thoughts turn out to be absolutely incorrect and that it is the genuine real deal though.
Restoration addict : Verdigris Removal : Zinc White spot removal : Iron Rust Removal : Silver brooch/necklace mount Removal
Thank you
I see your point this is what i originally thought although under my glass i can see it has been scraped harshly also i wrapped it in tin foil to test it and seems to be original silver toning, The double strike usually would put me off but i have researched hundreds now that have similar double strikes, I have just checked the weight it seems to be right i am still on the fence too
Thanks for your opinion i appreciate your time in helping me with it
Compare the edge of your Elizabeth with the Edward VI. The fabric of the two coins should be very similar. Your first group of photos seems to show a thickened area of the edge on the Edward VI with diagonal file marks. This could be a sign of casting.