If you stick to common coins, it's easier to avoid the fakes. Those have known weight and dimensions.
If the price is too good to be true, pass on it.
If the seller won't let you test it in front of them, pass on it.
You can get a cheap Neodymium magnet to carry with you on a keychain. If it sticks to it, it's fake. If it passes the magnet test, weigh it.
If the weight is off, pass on it.
If the weight is right, check dimensions online from a reputable online bullion dealer. Use digital calipers to measure the thickness and diameter. If they're off, pass on it. If they're right, it's likely genuine.
Jewelry is a little tougher. You can get a Kee gold tester for gold only. I'm not aware of anything cost-effective for silver other than filing some off and acid testing, but that destroys the piece. You can weed out some fakes with a Neodymium magnet and a Loupe to check for hallmarks, but it's not a guarantee. I once bought a 5oz coaster marked as Sterling and passed the scratch test, but it was very thick Sterling over top of ceramic.
!BBH
@thisismylife! Your Content Is Awesome so I just sent 1 $BBH (Bitcoin Backed Hive) to your account on behalf of @bulliontools. (13/20)
Wow, this is such a great comment @bulliontools, thank you for this!
I bet I'm not the only one that is very happy reading these tips :)
Since a few weeks I carry a magnifier in my purse to at least check for markings on jewellery which has been helpful because sometimes it's hard to see them with the naked eye!
So far I haven't found a dealer in the area where I could walk in myself, but I'm sure when I do, if they won't let me test it the trust is gone immediately. That's a huge red flag for sure!
That magnet for the key chain is a good idea!
Again, thanks! !PIMP it
No problem! I hope you find lots of cool treasures and share pictures with us! 😁
!LUV
!BBH
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@thisismylife! Your Content Is Awesome so I just sent 1 $BBH (Bitcoin Backed Hive) to your account on behalf of @bulliontools. (14/20)
That makes two of us!
!PIZZA
You must be killin' it out here!
@thisismylife just slapped you with 5.000 PIMP, @bulliontools.
You earned 5.000 PIMP for the strong hand.
They're getting a workout and slapped 2/3 possible people today.
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