With the proliferation of fakes becoming an ever-increasing problem I am often presented with the question: “how do I know its real?” This is a very legitimate question, but one that is hard to answer and often leaves the person unconvinced. I often reply by saying that, “as much as I’d like to sell you an artifact, you should probably educate yourself first before ever making a purchase.”

How do you educate yourself? If possible, get out into the field and do some collecting. Artifacts you find yourself are a valuable source of information. Broken study pieces are also a great, inexpensive way to become familiarized with authentic relics. Read as many books as possible, esp. older ones. Sadly some of the modern books on artifacts often contain pictures of fakes or reproduction objects that are represented as authentic. Visit museums and universities and talk to the archaeologists. Visit artifact shows, but exhibit caution as they often contain fakes scattered in with the authentic. Talk to other knowledgeable collectors who have stood the test of time and have maintained a good reputation.

Before making any purchase, here are some questions that you should ask yourself:
Is the artifact style consistent with other artifacts from the stated province area?
Are the size, material, patina, and workmanship comparable to similar artifacts?
Does the artifact exhibit a wear pattern?
Is the artifact too big to be practical?
Are there similar artifacts in books?
Is the price commensurate to the item offered for sale?
Although there are many good deals on eBay, a deal that seems too good to be true often is.

Beware of modified artifacts. Rechipped or reground artifacts (ones found broken and reworked by modern man) often exhibit a noticeable change in hue and lack mineral deposits in the reworked area. They can be hard to detect at times because the undamaged part of the artifact still has all of the original workmanship, patina, and wear pattern intact. Steer clear of artifacts that have been cleaned or stripped of their original patina.

A certificate of authenticity (COA) can make a buyer more confident and an artifact purchase seem more credible. However, keep one thing in mind. A COA is just a rendered opinion based on the authenticator’s reputation, knowledge, and experience to date. There can sometimes be a conflict of interest when one is issued. If the authenticator’s reputation is ever damaged, the certificate can become worthless. Self-education is ultimately your best defense against buying a fake.

When in doubt, ask other non-biased and experienced collectors to view the artifact and give you their honest opinion.

Is the seller straightforward or a little shady? Check the seller’s feedback to see what other buyers are saying. Make sure the auction photos are clear enough to evaluate the artifact before bidding. Avoid sellers that have too many super relics labeled as personal finds—nobody is that lucky! Does the seller offer a guarantee / return policy with enough time to have the artifact authenticated if need be? Does the seller have other items that are obvious reproductions, but not labeled as such? Has the seller blocked his/her feedback or is the listing marked “PRIVATE” in anyway?

A claim of membership or affiliation to an archaeological organization is not a guarantee that the item is authentic. Fakers can also join these organizations to present themselves as being credible. Many amateur archaeological organizations have members (esp. newer ones) with honest intentions, but often lack the knowledge and experience to evaluate artifacts.

I sincerely hope you found this guide to be helpful . . . please indicate your satisfaction below. Thank you.