Spotting Counterfeit Coins

I recently found a weird looking pound coin in my wallet, and after a bit of research, I found out it was fake. Hopefully this Instructable will stop you from being ripped off with fake coins, as you can't use them in vending machines and many shops wont take them.

Step 1: Turn It Around

Hold the coin between finger and thumb with the Queens head the right way up, then turn it round. If the image is wonky or upside down, it's a fake. In the case of my coin, it was the right way up.

Step 2: Check the Print

Look closely at the images and writing on both sides. If you have a similar coin, compare them. If the print is off centre or the thin details are smooth, there is a good chance of it being fake.

Step 3: What to Do With It

If you find a fake, it is illegal to use it for any kind of payment. Don't accept one now you know how to spot them, but if you already have one then put it to good use. What you're meant to do is hand it in to the police, but since it's not actual money, you could use it for magic tricks or making stuff. Here's some suggestions:

~ Jewellery
~ A counterweight for a mini catapult of small scale destruction
~ Those shopping trolleys that need to borrow a coin to be used
~ Umm... Drawing circles???

The possibilities (kind of) endless, but just be sure not to spend it. I doubt prison is fun. Thanks for reading! :)