Acid test on gold sovereigns?

[banyancb]

Is it a good idea or something really bad that should never be done to a sovereign?

And what kind of acid test do you use (9ct seems to be common)?

[James32]

3 hours ago, banyancb said:

Is it a good idea or something really bad that should never be done to a sovereign?

And what kind of acid test do you use (9ct seems to be common)?

Well here's the thing, an acid test on a sovereign that's the correct weight/diameter/thickness will tell you nothing ( most fake older sovereigns are infact real gold) if you had a non gold fake sovereign, it should be glaringly obvious it's not a precious metal ( will be substantially bigger or thicker or weight will be off)

as sovereigns are 22ct then a higher concentration of acid would be needed but certainly not advisable. 

Edited April 25, 2022 by James32

[fiveshotdon]

I wouldn't put acid on any coin, exhaust all other methods first and if you are sure you've been sold a fake and you are in a dispute it would be my last resort.

If your happy with spot or less then it might not affect you as much but selling privately will be a bit more challenging and you will lose premiums.

[dicker]

Er.....no acid tests ever.

[Pete]

Applying acid to any coin will create a glaringly obvious defect and if you are in doubt about authenticity and you can return for an exchange or refund, the seller will definitely not want to know with a big blemish that wasn't there before.
You don't test sovereigns or any 22ct gold that you want to keep using acids and 24ct will not react at all unless it is fresh aqua-regia.
Seek out the obvious tests - weight and dimensions first and if there is any doubt try a specific gravity test.
Failing that take it to someone who can test / verify with the proper kit.

[sovereignsteve]

No reason to acid test any gold sovereign, it is not sensitive enough.
I doubt it could tell the difference between 22ct and 21ct but this would be immediately obvious by carefully measuring size and weight.

[Shep]

It’s an excellent idea….if your aim was to ruin your coin.

Edited April 26, 2022 by Shep