A Kansas City, Mo., man has been charged with selling counterfeit rare coins to two Bethany businesses.
Prosecuting Attorney Johnathan Meyer charged Matthew D. Blatt, 36, with a Class D felony of stealing by deceit and a Class E felony of counterfeiting.
According to the Bethany Police Department, Blatt allegedly pawned an 1873 Carson City quarter at Bullseye Trading for $4,000. He also was charged with selling three coins including a purported 1856 Flying Eagle penny to Brian Gray at Grayâs Jewelry for $3,500.
Police Officer Trevor Place said in a probable cause affidavit that the Carson City quarter was later determined to be counterfeit. The coins pawned at Grayâs were tested by an independent coin shop in Des Moines and also were determined to be counterfeit.
Place said Blatt told him by phone that he didnât realize the coins were counterfeit and that he had more in pawn at Cash America in Raytown, Mo. Cash America told Place that it had an 1856 Flying Eagle penny on pawn by Blatt.
âAfter researching and speaking with many coin collectors it was determined that only 750 Flying Eagle pennies were minted in 1856, and due to their rarity it would be nearly impossible for Blatt to possess two,â Place stated in the affidavit.
Blatt agreed to be interviewed by local authorities but he missed several appointments and can no longer be reached by phone.
Associate Circuit Judge Jay Hemenway authorized a warrant to be issued for Blattâs arrest with bond set at $10,000. Authorities so far have been unable to locate Blatt.