Skip to content

Cast Copy

Cast Copy.  Made by any method of molding; the original of which was a genuine piece. Cast copies run the gamut of authority, intent and quality; as it may be a facsimile, private copy, imitation, forgery or counterfeit.  See copies and replicas. Cast copies are always slightly less diameter than the original from which they are made due to the shrinkage in making the mold and making the cast replica. Such shrinkage ranges from 1 to 4% per generation. Poorly made casts – or by inexperienced persons – have great porosity (bubbles, bleeps, blisters) from trapped air (causing cavitations), from dirty molds and often a greasy feel from improper knowledge of release agents. Porosity, numerous bubble marks (blow holes) and lack of sharp detail are the most evident indications of a cast copy.  See shrinkage.

excerpted with permission from

An Encyclopedia of Coin and Medal Technology

For Artists, Makers, Collectors and Curators

COMPILED AND WRITTEN BY D. WAYNE JOHNSON

Roger W. Burdette, Editor


NNP is 100% non-profit and independent // Your feedback is essential and welcome. // Your feedback is essential and welcome.