Top 5 Methods to Verify Silver Purity and Certification

Written by Dev Sethia

3 min read | Updated on October 24, 2025, 16:47 IST

Table of Contentsarrow close icon
  1. Buy from Reputed Dealers

  2. Check for Hallmarks and Certifications

  3. Verify Weight and Dimensions

  4. Request an Authenticity Certificate

  5. Compare Prices and Be Wary of Impossible Discounts

  6. FAQs

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Due to the increasing popularity of buying gold and silver coins online, it has become more essential than ever to verify the authenticity of these metals. With so many new sellers, it is important to know what to look for when determining which coins are authentic and which are counterfeit.

Buy from Reputed Dealers

One of the best ways to avoid fake coins is to purchase them from established and trusted merchants. In India, the best way to do this is to buy from a trusted diamond jewelry showroom or Diamond Jewelry Boutique, as they tend to sell certified products. It is important to confirm the seller's credentials, customers’ reviews, and certifications before making a purchase.

Check for Hallmarks and Certifications

Real gold and silver coins should bear distinct hallmarks and certifications. Buyers should expect purity marks of 999 or 916 for gold and the mark of 999 for silver.

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) hallmark is a reliable indicator of gold purity in India. Coins made by a government or recognized entity will often have a serial number or other official certification to demonstrate their authenticity.

Verify Weight and Dimensions

Every gold or silver coin has standards for weight and dimensions. Counterfeit coins may differ slightly from these standards. Buyers should compare the official dimensions and weight of the coin they intend to buy to the seller's item description. Many reputable jeweler showrooms in Surat provide specific measurements for transparency.

Request an Authenticity Certificate

Always request an authenticity certificate from the seller when purchasing coins made from silver and gold online. Reliable sellers offer certifications that will assure you of the coin’s purity and authenticity, which adds credibility to the investment.

Compare Prices and Be Wary of Impossible Discounts

Experts advise buyers to be warned of deals that appear to be too good to be true. Make sure to compare prices on multiple platforms as prices that are not reasonable when compared to other prices are often a sign of counterfeit items.

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Always buy gold and silver coins from reputable dealers to ensure they are authentic. Check for proper hallmarks, certifications, weight, and size. Ask for an authenticity certificate and pay attention to oddly low prices.

FAQs

How can I make sure that the silver coins I purchase are real?

Buy from reputable dealers/certified diamond jewelry outlets, verify the hallmark, and ask for an authenticity certificate.

What hallmark(s) should I look for in authentic gold or silver coins?

Look for the following purity marks or hallmarks 999 (for silver) plus a BIS hallmark for gold coins in India.

Why is it important to check the weight and dimensions of the coins?

Fake coins often differ slightly in weight or dimensions. Checking the seller's description against official standards can help identify legitimate coins or impostors.

Is it necessary to have an authenticity certificate when purchasing coins online?

Yes! When buying online, an authenticity certificate certifies the coin's purity and authenticity, taking away the concern that the coin is counterfeit.

How do I avoid scams when purchasing coins online?

Avoid deals that seem too good to be true and check prices across credible sources to get an idea of what a reasonable discount would be.

About Author

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Dev Sethia

Sub-Editor

a journalism post-graduate from ACJ-Bloomberg with over three years of experience covering financial and business stories. At Upstox, he writes on capital markets and personal finance, with a keen focus on the stock market, companies, and multimedia reporting. When he’s not writing, you’ll find him on the cricket pitch

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