Knowing the exact specifications of an authentic 1 oz Gold Britannia is essential for verification. Any deviation from these specifications is a strong indicator of a counterfeit.
Physical Specifications
Weight
31.1g (1 troy oz)
Diameter
32.69mm
Thickness
2.89mm
Purity
24 karat
Fine Gold Content
1 troy oz
Composition
Gold
99.99%
Note: Pure .9999 fine gold
How to Spot a Fake Gold Britannia
Counterfeit 1 oz Gold Britannia 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 Britannia.
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
Gold-plated brass or copper coins
Lower purity gold coins
Counterfeits missing security features
Red Flags: Signs of a Fake Coin
Incorrect weight (should be exactly 31.1g)
Wrong diameter (should be 32.69mm)
Dull or muted ping sound
Missing or poorly executed security features
Magnetic properties
Poor detail on Britannia figure or trident
Incorrect edge design or milled pattern
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 Britannia coins produce a distinctive resonance frequency that counterfeits cannot replicate.
Resonance Frequencies
c0d2
4867 Hz
c0d3
8523 Hz
c0d4
12398 Hz
c1d0
6689 Hz
c1d1
10189 Hz
Acoustic Signature
Clear, high-pitched ring characteristic of pure gold
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 Britannia
Use these proven methods to verify the authenticity of your 1 oz Gold Britannia. For best results, use multiple authentication techniques together.
Ping test - authentic Britannias produce a clear, sustained high-pitched ring
Check weight precisely (31.1g)
Verify diameter (32.69mm)
Inspect modern security features under magnification
Check for surface animation wave pattern (post-2021)
Verify micro-text and security features
Magnet test - gold is not magnetic
About the Gold Britannia
First issued in 1987, the Gold Britannia is the UK's flagship gold bullion coin and is CGT (Capital Gains Tax) exempt for UK residents as legal tender.
Authenticate Your Gold Britannia in Seconds
Download the Pingcoin app and use acoustic authentication to instantly verify your Gold Britannia and other precious metal coins.
The ping test is highly effective for detecting counterfeit 1 oz Gold Britannia 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 Britannia 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 Britannia 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.