On Fighting Coin Crimes/COINage Confidential
Doug Davis is the founder and president of the Numismatic Crime Information Center and has over 40 years of experience in law enforcement. Davis is also the director of anti-counterfeiting for the Anti-Counterfeiting Educational Foundation. He is recognized as a leading expert in numismatic crime investigations and conducts law enforcement schools and educational seminars to educate officials about the complex challenges associated with numismatic crimes.
How serious is the counterfeit coin and bullion problem, and what can consumers do to protect themselves?
Counterfeit coins and precious metals pose a significant economic threat to the numismatic industry and the U.S. monetary system. Millions of dollars in counterfeit coins are sold annually by counterfeiters who target and prey on the elderly and an uneducated public by using mass marketing programs on websites and social media platforms. Because of the concern over the uncertainty of the U.S. economy and the global unrest, consumers are turning to numismatic coins and precious metals as a substitute for conventional methods of investment. To reduce the risk of becoming a victim, consumers should educate themselves in the basics of numismatics and precious metals. Counterfeiting technology gets better daily. Fake third-party grading holders can, in many cases, even fool the experienced collector, investor, or dealer. It is important for the consumer to buy from a reputable source such as the Professional Numimatists Guild or American Numismatic Association dealer or local established dealer. Read the entire COINage Confidential article.
