Knowing the exact specifications of an authentic 1 oz Gold Krugerrand 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
32.77mm
Thickness
2.84mm
Purity
22 karat
Fine Gold Content
1 troy oz
Composition
Gold
91.67%
Copper
8.33%
Note: Contains 1 troy oz of pure gold plus copper alloy
How to Spot a Fake Gold Krugerrand
Counterfeit 1 oz Gold Krugerrand 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 Krugerrand.
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-filled gold plated coins
Lower karat gold coins
Brass or bronze coins with gold plating
Red Flags: Signs of a Fake Coin
Wrong weight (should be 33.93g exactly)
Incorrect diameter (should be 32.77mm)
Dull or thud-like ping sound
Magnetic attraction (real gold is not magnetic)
Incorrect edge design or reeding
Poor detail on Springbok antelope or Paul Kruger portrait
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 Krugerrand coins produce a distinctive resonance frequency that counterfeits cannot replicate.
Resonance Frequencies
c0d2
4523 Hz
c0d3
8102 Hz
c0d4
11876 Hz
c1d0
6234 Hz
c1d1
9847 Hz
Acoustic Signature
Distinctive ring due to gold-copper 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 Krugerrand
Use these proven methods to verify the authenticity of your 1 oz Gold Krugerrand. For best results, use multiple authentication techniques together.
Use the ping test - authentic Krugerrands have a clear, sustained ring
Check weight precisely with a calibrated scale
Measure diameter with calipers
Inspect fine details under magnification
Use a magnet test - gold is not magnetic
About the Gold Krugerrand
First minted in 1967, the Krugerrand was the world's first modern gold bullion coin and helped establish the gold investment market.
Authenticate Your Gold Krugerrand in Seconds
Download the Pingcoin app and use acoustic authentication to instantly verify your Gold Krugerrand and other precious metal coins.
How accurate is the ping test for Gold Krugerrand?
The ping test is highly effective for detecting counterfeit 1 oz Gold Krugerrand 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 Krugerrand 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 Krugerrand 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.