How to Spot a Fake

How to Spot a Fake: Protecting Yourself in the Collectibles Market

– by Opulence, The Collection by LKL

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In the world of high-end collectibles — where rarity meets value — counterfeits are everywhere. From fake silver coins to imitation luxury pens, even experienced collectors can fall victim to forgeries that look convincing at first glance.

At Opulence, authenticity is sacred. Whether you're investing in your first piece or expanding your vault, here's how to spot the fakes and protect your passion.

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1. If It's Too Good to Be True… It Probably Is

This is the golden rule of collecting.

A limited-edition coin “worth $500” being sold for $79? A Montegrappa pen on a third-party site for 70% off? Be suspicious.

Luxury holds its value, especially when it's scarce and verified. Low prices usually mean one of two things: a stolen item — or a fake.

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2. Always Ask for a COA (Certificate of Authenticity)

A real COA will usually include:

• The official name and edition

• The total mintage (eg 1 of 499)

• The serial number of your individual piece

• The mint's logo or signature

• Security features like holograms, embossing, or QR/NFC tech

No COA? No confidence.

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3. Examine the Packaging

High-end coins and pens are never shipped in generic plastic or foam. Look for:

• Custom presentation boxes with branding

• High-quality materials (wood, leatherette, metal)

• Fit and finish — fakes often have poor hinges, blurry logos, or flimsy inserts

Montegrappa pens, for example, are packaged with archival-quality booklets and ink, and often include an authenticity card.

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4. Know the Common Red Flags

For coins:

• Inaccurate weight or dimensions (always check with a digital scale & caliper)

• Blurry details in the relief or rim

• Wrong finish (eg “proof” that looks matte or uneven)

• Missing or sloppy edge inscriptions

For pens:

• Cheap-feeling metal or resin

• Screwy nibs or off-centered logos

• No nib engraving or incorrect fonts

• Threads that grind or misalign

If you're unsure — don't guess. Verify.

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5. Provenance Adds Power

Provenance means knowing where your item came from — who owned it, when, and how it was transferred.

A pen or coin with a clear ownership trail, dealer records, or past auction listing has a layer of trust that adds both value and security.

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Protect What You Collect

Fakes steal more than money — they steal your trust, your time, and your legacy.

When you invest in true collectibles, you deserve peace of mind.

At Opulence, authenticity isn't optional — it's a promise.