I bought a fake Septimius Severus

[Tejas]

I just received a denarius of Septimius Severus, which I bought via MA Münzen from a seller in the US. Unfortunately, the coin is a modern fake. I think it is cast. The rim has been smoothed. Quite dissappointing, but I have already blocked PayPal and informed the seller.

Edited September 29, 2023 by Tejas

[thenickelguy]

Wondering what it was attributed as and what exactly tipped you off about the coin to come to that conclusion?

I think I have found it as 

Septimius Severus Denarius, RIC 207, RSC 493, BMC 531

Edited September 29, 2023 by thenickelguy

[Tejas]

Under magnification the design and lettering is strangely blurred. The rim has been smoothed, probably to remove a casting seam. I have 36 Septimius denari to compare with. This one just looks wrong.

Edited September 29, 2023 by Tejas

[Romismatist]

Yes, the coin definitely looks fake even from the photos. Not enough details in the hair & beard, fields are too smooth, style just a touch off (eye & profile), does not really look struck from the lettering (metal flow lines etc). Hope you are able to get a refund.

[Tejas]

I'm not sure about the style. I think the cast was made from a genuine denarius. Anyway, I already got my money back. That is the advantage if you paid by PayPal.