Knowing the exact specifications of an authentic 1 oz Silver Austrian Philharmonic 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
37mm
Thickness
3.2mm
Purity
.999 fine
Fine Silver Content
1 troy oz
Composition
Silver
99.9%
Note: Pure .999 fine silver
How to Spot a Fake Silver Philharmonic
Counterfeit 1 oz Silver Austrian Philharmonic 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 Silver Philharmonic.
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
Silver-plated copper or zinc coins
Lower purity silver coins
Chinese counterfeits with incorrect dimensions
Base metal coins with silver plating
Red Flags: Signs of a Fake Coin
Incorrect weight (should be exactly 31.1g)
Wrong diameter (should be 37mm)
Dull or flat ping sound
Magnetic properties
Poor detail on organ pipes or instruments
Tarnishing pattern doesn't match genuine silver
Incorrect edge finish or reeding
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 Silver Austrian Philharmonic coins produce a distinctive resonance frequency that counterfeits cannot replicate.
Resonance Frequencies
c0d2
5312 Hz
c0d3
9234 Hz
c0d4
13389 Hz
c1d0
7189 Hz
c1d1
11089 Hz
Acoustic Signature
Clear, bell-like ring with long sustain due to larger diameter
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 Silver Philharmonic
Use these proven methods to verify the authenticity of your 1 oz Silver Austrian Philharmonic. For best results, use multiple authentication techniques together.
Ping test - authentic Silver Philharmonics produce a beautiful sustained ring
Precise weight check (31.1g)
Verify diameter (37mm)
Visual inspection of fine details on musical instruments
Ice test for thermal conductivity
Magnet test
Compare to known authentic coin
About the Silver Philharmonic
First issued in 2008, the Silver Philharmonic features the same design as its gold counterpart and has become one of Europe's most popular silver bullion coins.
Authenticate Your Silver Philharmonic in Seconds
Download the Pingcoin app and use acoustic authentication to instantly verify your Silver Philharmonic and other precious metal coins.
How accurate is the ping test for Silver Philharmonic?
The ping test is highly effective for detecting counterfeit 1 oz Silver Austrian Philharmonic 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 Silver Philharmonic 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 Silver Austrian Philharmonic 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.