Unfortunately, counterfeit gold bars continue to surface in the market. Identifying red flags before buying—or even before accepting a bar as payment—can protect your assets and reputation. You don’t need advanced tools to catch obvious signs of a fake.

Watch for these warning signs:

• Incorrect dimensions or weight – A fake bar may look right but weigh less or have irregular measurements.
• No serial number – Legitimate bars from reputable mints always include unique serial codes.
• Discoloration or unusual markings – Fake gold may show odd tones or surface inconsistencies.
• No assay certificate – Many authentic bars include a matching certificate of authenticity or mint seal.
• Weak magnet test results – While gold is non-magnetic, some fakes contain magnetic metals that react to strong magnets.

If you're unsure, avoid proceeding with a transaction until you've spoken with a dealer or expert familiar with verification techniques.

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