Counterfeiters employ various techniques and methods to create counterfeits, deceptive fakes and altered coins. These methods include the following:
Added and embossed mintmarks
Cast
Die struck
Electrotypes
Spark erosion
Plated
Altered dates and varieties
The counterfeiter seeking to produce the largest quantity of good quality, counterfeit coins would certainly choose to strike them using dies. Most of his time would be spent preparing the die, but once the die is finished the counterfeiter is free to make as many examples as he wants, each of reasonably good quality. However, this method also takes the most talent and is more costly to produce.
