The best protection against fake bullion is to buy from reputable dealers with clear return policies, transparent pricing, and established market history. Counterfeit risk rises when buyers chase unusually cheap deals from unknown sellers.

Stackers can also use basic verification methods such as weight, dimensions, magnet tests, sound tests, visual inspection, and comparison with known genuine examples. For higher-value purchases, more advanced tools such as sigma testers, ultrasonic testing, or professional assay may be appropriate.

No single home test is perfect. A reliable stacker combines trusted sourcing, product knowledge, documentation, and verification. Large gold bars and rare coins deserve extra caution because the financial loss from one counterfeit can be significant.