Gold bars are valuable, and unfortunately, that makes them targets for tampering. While outright counterfeits exist, many scams involve real gold bars that have been altered to affect weight, purity, or packaging. Recognizing signs of modification can help protect your investment.

Watch for these red flags:

• Unusual weight for the stated size – Bars should match their stated weight within a very narrow margin.
• Scratches or resealing on packaging – Damaged or tampered packaging may indicate substitution or prior handling.
• Missing serial numbers or blurry stamps – Inconsistent fonts or marks can be signs of forgery or altered bars.
• Off-center or uneven edges – Recast bars may appear poorly shaped or resized.
• No assay certificate – Authentic bars often come with matching paperwork confirming details.

Testing methods like density tests, magnet checks, or ultrasonic scans can help spot problems, but these aren’t always accessible at home. If you're concerned, it's best to have the item professionally reviewed. 

A gold bar dealer Paterson collectors trust can inspect for tampering and advise whether the bar is acceptable for resale or further storage. Don’t rely on packaging alone—always double-check the product itself.

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