Recognizing genuine medieval gold coins requires a keen eye and familiarity with medieval minting practices. First, examine the coin’s weight and size. Medieval gold coins were minted to specific standards depending on the region and time period. A Byzantine solidus generally had a mass of approximately 4.5 grams, in contrast, the Florentine florin weighed roughly 3.5 grams. Substantial discrepancies from established weights often suggest a contemporary fake.

Examine the artwork and minting details. Genuine coins display subtle flaws due to manual die striking, such as off-center strikes or uneven relief. Machine-made replicas tend to look too perfect or uniform. Observe how wear has naturally developed over time. Genuine coins will have natural wear on the high points of the design, such as the ruler’s face or crown, while fakes may have artificially worn surfaces that look uneven or painted on.

Check the metal composition. Medieval gold coins were made from relatively pure gold, usually between 90 and 98 percent. Counterfeiters frequently substitute with gold-washed copper, brass, or other inexpensive metals. A professional assay or XRF test can confirm the metal content. You can instantly detect ferrous imitations by testing whether the coin is attracted to a magnet, since pure gold repels magnetic fields.

Study the lettering and inscriptions. Inscriptions on authentic coins use period-appropriate Latin or vernacular alphabets with era-specific orthography. Check for misspellings, mismatched fonts, or historically inaccurate characters. For example, a coin claiming to be from the 12th century but bearing a 15th century style of lettering is likely fake.

Assess the natural patina and weathering. Over time, real coins develop a stable, matte patina with subtle color variations. Steer clear of coins that gleam unnaturally or show signs of recent mechanical polishing. Also, be wary of coins that appear too clean or lack any signs of soil or corrosion if they are claimed to have been unearthed.

Research the provenance. Coins with documented histories from reputable auctions, museums, or excavations are more likely to be genuine. Be cautious of coins sold with vague origins or from unverified online sellers. Reputable dealers will provide certificates of authenticity and アンティークコイン references to published catalogues.

Finally, consult experts. When in doubt, bring the coin to a trained numismatist or a curator focused on medieval currency. They utilize advanced equipment to identify tool marks, machine impressions, or chemical treatments invisible to the naked eye. Because authentic pieces are both rare and highly prized, thorough verification is a non-negotiable step in acquisition.