Counterfeit Detection: 1888-A Prussian 10 Marks

NGC - A poorly detailed gold counterfeit replicates a coin that never existed.

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In 1888 the Berlin Mint (represented by an "A" mintmark) struck 189,125 gold 10-mark coins that feature the profile of Emperor Wilhelm I. Following his death on April 9, 1888, Frederick III ascended the throne and was depicted on an additional 876,224 pieces. He served for a mere 99 days, dying on June 15, 1888. Frederick was succeeded by his son, Wilhelm II, but no 10-mark specimens were struck in 1888 bearing his portrait.

As such, the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) grading team was intrigued to see one in a recent submission. It is, of course, counterfeit. Clearly, the forger did not have a strong understanding of history, particularly regarding the emperors that appeared on the country's 19th-century gold coinage. Surprisingly, the coin is struck on a gold planchet of the correct weight and fineness. However, its execution leaves much to be desired.



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