Words to Watch Out for when Buying Coins Online

Not all things that is sold online as coins are really coins. Look for these words: replica, copy, and tribute. Also look for plated when considering gold or silver coins. The copy coins are supposed to have the word copy on them. But, it can be disguised. Consider the Morgan silver dollar. The word copy is often hidden in the eagle's feathers, at an angle that makes it a challenge to spot if you do not look for it. Yes, sellers should disclose in the title if a copy is being sold, but too many do not. But, if I see 1 oz fine silver on the coin, can I be assured it is really silver? After all, it should be to have that marking. Unfortunately, the original may contain the fine silver mark, so the replica copies the original in detail. This is a particular problem with plated coins, often claiming 100 mils fine silver or gold. Well, plated copies generally have too little precious metal to affect the value.