Errors And Omissions In 2015 Charlton's

All of the Chinese counterfeit dies were made using a real coin as a model. That means that certain die breaks that appear on the counterfeits will also be there on some real coins. Some of the counterfeit dies have also developed die breaks of their own due to use. For those that have seen my work before will realize that I stayed away from using die cracks or effigy errors as markers as they can muddy the water so to speak. the 1858/1859 counterfeit one cent dies are an excellent example of this.
All the markers used are correct. That said, when dealing with the 25 cent series, if the die crack is present, you need only look at the effigy for the diagonal slash on the neck, the blundered letter in the legend or the mark on the cheek. Real coins will not have these. These are the easiest identification. Use all the markers. But as I just said, some (cracks) may or may not be present. If they are, use the non-effigy markers as gospel. They are correct and work.
I get little on-line time and have lost access to my email accounts do to lack of use. You can contact me through this chat board.
Bill Cross was left to complete the project literally alone do to no fault of his own. For that I am very sorry as this has been a labour of love for years. To hear negative comments is very saddening. I pop in here when I get a chance. I am hoping to acquire a copy today at Chapters from the kids. Mike Marshall

I thought I knew so much about large cents until I meet Bill Hall and other who have been kind enough to share their knowledge with me. Everything I thought I knew was wrong, Rob Turner books are a wealth of information and I think a must have for any Vicky Variety collector. I'm very happy to say I'm a better collector today then I was yesterday and I owe a BIG thanks to so many good friends who have help me along the way. THANKS GUYS!

It's the only way reference books will survive.

I purchase fakes directly from the manufacturers. Constantly. I have made a point of staying "current."

Mike I appreciate the effort you've devoted to this, I've learned so much from your tired less work on the subject. The back story is truly sad!! I've googled you and your efforts. They are too be highly commended! No one else to my knowledge has put in such a huge effort, nor accomplished what you have over the years!! People who criticize your efforts, need to ask themselves, how they have contributed to the fight against fake Canadian coins. Only when their efforts match or surpass yours, can they then say something negative.

It was a sad day in May; when ebay disbanded their coin watch group, with it's mechanism for reporting ads. Now it's a free for all and truly a Buyer Beware situation!!
In all honesty as consumers one does have to do research on whatever product you purchase.
Responsiblity does lie on the consumer to make an informed purchase. Also to buy from places with a good return policy. When I see no returns, I will skip the vendor. Even if the vendor has a good reputation. I am comforted by just knowing the opportunity exists to return on the remote chance I need to do a return.

It is sad when counterfeiters rely on a consumers naive nature or want of a bargain to scam the unsuspecting buyer.
On the flip side there's probably a small market of people who can't afford the real coin and are comfortable with an imitation. It's really too bad, there's no enforceable law that works to have copies marked with a stamp.

My hats off to those who volunteer their time; to fight the counterfeiters. It truly is a thankless job. Where you seldom see the positives of your contribution.