Bring Your Counterfeits to the NMS

Is it legal to own a counterfeit coin? The answer may surprise you.

According to federal law, counterfeit coins are illegal to possess, buy, or sell. Traditionally, once a victim becomes aware that a coin is counterfeit, they should turn it over to the nearest Secret Service agent or local law-enforcement official. Now, there is a more practical solution: the Hobby Protection Act sanctions possession of a counterfeit coin if the word “COPY” is incused on either the obverse or reverse. 

So, if you have unwittingly purchased a fake from an e-commerce platform or fraudulent merchant, bring it with you to the ANA’s National Money Show, to be held February 26-28 in Savannah, Georgia. Representatives from the Anti-Counterfeiting Educational Foundation (ACEF) will be on hand to stamp “COPY” on counterfeits.

“Many people who have been duped into buying counterfeit coins realize they can’t sell fakes. But they are often at a loss as what to do with them. Having the fakes properly incused with the word ‘COPY’ makes them legal to own,” says ACEF Executive Director Beth Deisher. “It’s equally important for buyers to see real coins and meet trusted, professional dealers who will treat them fairly. The ANA’s National Money Show is an ideal place to learn about coins and meet people you can trust.” 

For those unable to attend the National Money Show who are seeking a trustworthy dealer, ACEF provides a Trusted Experts Directory on its website to help locate reputable dealers nearby.