Counterfeits manufactured to deposit into banks over the counter only need to have the correct weight. These coins are rarely visually checked and just weighed in, even if depositing large qualities of coins.
It’s generally only companies that use cash centers that lose out. Coins deposited into banks via cash centres are normally sorted and counted by high speed machines. If counterfeits are detected they are generally confiscated and the value deducted for the amount of cash deposited.
However, counterfeits can be as simple as a metal disc with a painted outer ring like the sample below.
A counterfeit manufactured for the purposes of handing over to a shop assistant for example, only have to be good enough to fool the shop assistant.
Reporting Fake £2 Coins
Anyone who comes across a counterfeit coin is encouraged to hand it in at their local police station. The problem is that the coins are confiscated and the person loses out.
The purpose of handing in counterfeits is to help the enforcement agencies establish geographical data of where the coins are, the quality and quantity in circulation.
As the number of counterfeit £2 coins in circulation is (at present) still low, we believe now is the time to try and help the enforcement agencies find the counterfeiters.
So if you think you have a counterfeit £2 coin then please let us know by sending an email to e-newsletter@willings.co.uk.