NGC Introduces New Security Hologram with Unique QR Codes
Holograms have a long and successful history as a decorative enhancement on coins (see HN November 2022), where, for example, a holographic relief structure is embossed into a resin that coats one side of the coin. But another range of coin applications for holography comes in the shape of security labels that demonstrate the authenticity of the coin.
Coin collecting is one of the oldest hobbies on the globe – for both hobbyists and for investment purposes. It saw an upsurge during COVID and the market is currently estimated to be worth in the region of $11-18 billion, and to exceed $30 billion by 2032.
Coin counterfeiting, however, is a major hazard, particularly given the prices involved (rare coins selling for over $1 million is not unusual) and because many people who collect coins as a hobby are unfamiliar with numismatics, so may end up paying a greater amount for the coin. Added to that, social media platforms are being used as a major conduit for the sale of counterfeit coins, and fake gold, silver and platinum bullion items.
A number of companies undertake coin grading and certification of the validity of coins, one being Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), based in Sarasota, Florida. NGC certification consists of authentication, grading, attribution, and encapsulation in clear plastic holders.
NGC has recently introduced a security hologram as part of its efforts to combat counterfeiting and create a safer marketplace for NGC-certified coins, tokens and medals. Among the innovative hologram enhancements are a QR code and a numerical security code that are unique to the specific encapsulated collectible, making it extremely difficult for counterfeiters to replicate or tamper with the NGC holder.
Rare German coin front (left) and reverse (right) (© NGC).
When the square-shaped QR code at the left of the hologram is scanned by a smartphone, it swiftly takes the user to that exact collectible in NGC’s Certification Verification tool 1. This allows a prospective buyer to quickly learn more about the collectible, including its NGC Census population data and, for many coins, its NGC price guide value.
In addition, the QR code enables the user to compare the collectible in hand to the high-resolution images taken by NGC at the time of encapsulation. NGC has imaged virtually every coin, token and medal that it has certified since 2008 and makes these images available for free on its website – an essential resource for both counterfeit detection and numismatic research.
The unique QR code and accompanying eight-digit numerical security code are among several features of the new hologram, which is fused to the back of the NGC holder. The combination of the hologram, detailed certification label and tamper-evident holder provide significantly greater confidence to collectors and dealers.
In addition to its security elements, the hologram complements the aesthetics of the encapsulated collectible, as well as NGC’s holder and label. More than 58 million numismatic items have been certified by NGC since it was established in 1987.
‘NGC is constantly looking for new ways to both innovate and create a more transparent and safe market for collectors and dealers,’ said Andy Salzberg, Executive Vice President of NGC’s parent company, Certified Collectibles Group. ‘With the addition of this new QR code we have accomplished both. Each QR code is unique, making them virtually impossible to counterfeit. In addition, we have made it faster and easier for collectors to look up a coin on NGC’s website.’
The enhanced hologram is part of NGC’s ongoing efforts to protect the hobby from counterfeit collectibles. NGC also provides a wide-ranging counterfeit detection resource 2 on its website in order to educate collectors and dealers. In addition, NGC is the Official Grading Service of the Anti-Counterfeiting Educational Foundation (ACEF) and works aggressively to help authorities bring counterfeiters to justice.
Initially, the new security hologram will be used with select bulk submissions to NGC’s Sarasota office. In the coming weeks, the use of the new hologram will be expanded to include all submissions to NGC’s Sarasota, London, Munich and Hong Kong offices and then later, its use is expected to be implemented at NGC’s Shanghai office.
Subscriber content
Read the full article
Full access to Holography & Optical Technology News articles, newsletters and archives.
