Knowing the exact specifications of an authentic 1 oz Gold American Eagle is essential for verification. Any deviation from these specifications is a strong indicator of a counterfeit.
Physical Specifications
Weight
33.93g (1.0909 troy oz)
Diameter
32.7mm
Thickness
2.87mm
Purity
22 karat
Fine Gold Content
1 troy oz
Composition
Gold
91.67%
Silver
3%
Copper
5.33%
Note: Contains 1 troy oz of pure gold plus copper and silver alloy
How to Spot a Fake Gold American Eagle
Counterfeit 1 oz Gold American Eagle coins are increasingly common in the precious metals market. Learning to identify fake coins is crucial to protecting your investment. This guide covers everything you need to know about authenticating your Gold American Eagle.
Warning: Sophisticated counterfeits can fool visual inspection alone. Always use multiple authentication methods including the ping test, precise measurements, and weight verification.
Common Counterfeit Types
Tungsten-core gold plated coins
Chinese counterfeits with incorrect alloy composition
Gold-plated brass or copper coins
Lower purity gold coins
Red Flags: Signs of a Fake Coin
Incorrect weight (should be exactly 33.93g)
Wrong diameter (should be 32.7mm)
Flat or dull ping sound instead of clear ring
Magnetic properties (genuine gold eagles are not magnetic)
Poor detail on Liberty or eagle design
Incorrect edge reeding or smoothness
Color appears too yellow or too pale
Acoustic Authentication: The Ping Test
The ping test is one of the most reliable methods for detecting counterfeit precious metal coins. When tapped, genuine 1 oz Gold American Eagle coins produce a distinctive resonance frequency that counterfeits cannot replicate.
Resonance Frequencies
c0d2
4612 Hz
c0d3
8234 Hz
c0d4
12043 Hz
c1d0
6389 Hz
c1d1
9923 Hz
Acoustic Signature
Clear, sustained ring characteristic of gold alloy
Why the Ping Test Works: The resonance frequency of a coin is determined by its material properties (density, elasticity, composition) and physical dimensions. Even sophisticated counterfeits with similar appearance will produce different frequencies if they don't have the exact same composition and dimensions.
How to Authenticate Your Gold American Eagle
Use these proven methods to verify the authenticity of your 1 oz Gold American Eagle. For best results, use multiple authentication techniques together.
Ping test - authentic Gold Eagles produce a clear, resonant ring
Precise weight measurement with calibrated scale
Verify diameter and thickness with calipers
Visual inspection of fine details and edge reeding
Magnet test - gold is not magnetic
Compare sound to known authentic coin
About the Gold American Eagle
First issued in 1986, the American Gold Eagle is the official gold bullion coin of the United States and one of the world's most popular investment coins.
Authenticate Your Gold American Eagle in Seconds
Download the Pingcoin app and use acoustic authentication to instantly verify your Gold American Eagle and other precious metal coins.
How accurate is the ping test for Gold American Eagle?
The ping test is highly effective for detecting counterfeit 1 oz Gold American Eagle coins. The Pingcoin app analyzes the acoustic signature with precision and compares it against verified reference values. However, we recommend using it alongside other methods like weight and dimension verification for complete confidence.
What should I do if my Gold American Eagle fails the ping test?
If your coin doesn't pass the ping test, it doesn't automatically mean it's fake. Environmental factors or coin damage can affect results. We recommend:
Test multiple times in a quiet environment
Verify weight and dimensions with precise tools
Have the coin professionally authenticated if significant value is at stake
Contact our community on Discord for support
Where can I buy authentic 1 oz Gold American Eagle coins?
Purchase from reputable dealers such as:
Government mints directly
Established precious metals dealers with good reputations
Major online bullion retailers with buyer protection
Local coin shops with verifiable credentials
Always authenticate coins immediately upon receipt, especially when buying from new sources.