Expert: Dmitry Livshits - 9/1/2011

Question
Dear Mr. Livshits,
I was given several 10 mark Prussian gold coins several years ago by my late mother. Recently I examined them and believe that one of the coins is a counterfeit. The image on the front is of Kaiser Wilhelm I but the reverse side of the coin is dated 1888. The front image has an “A” designation.  The weight is 3.97 grams. I’m assuming that this is indeed a counterfeit as opposed to some type of a coin that was made in error by the official mint. Thank you in advance for reviewing my question.

Answer
Hi Frank,
Everything sounds just fine to me. The weight is right on and there is actually no problem with the date.
This year in Prussia was known as "the year of three rulers". Depending on which denomination you look at, Prussian coins from this year can have varieties of up to three different portaits.
The "new" portrait for the 1888 10 mark has the head of Frierich with large, long beard. The "old" portrait is the same as on the 1870's types and has Wilhelm pictured.
It's cool that you have both versions in your collection. There is not a significant value difference between the two unless they are in mint or near-mint conditon.
Thanks for the question! =)