Fake antique coins: Bizman knew accused duo’s father

That an innocuous hobby and kin of an old friend could cost him a fortune is something Bandra resident Anthony Lewis is still trying to come to terms with.

That an innocuous hobby and kin of an old friend could cost him a fortune is something Bandra resident Anthony Lewis is still trying to come to terms with.

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The 72-year-old numismatist was cheated of Rs 80 lakh by two people who allegedly sold him fake ancient coins.

Lewis trusted the duo — Tardeo residents Deepak Meghani (36) and his brother Pradeep (31) — as he was a good friend of their father.

“I trusted them blindly and did not care about the money,” said Lewis.

According to officials of Khar police station, it was over a couple of months ago that Lewis had lodged a complaint about the fake coins sold to him.

The Meghani brothers had claimed that the coins belonged to the Maurya and Gupta dynasties.

Lewis said he grew suspicious when an American friend of his told him that about a year ago, the duo had sold him such ‘ancient’ coins for Rs 8 lakh, and these turned out to be fake.

On learning about his acquaintance’s experience, Lewis sent the coins for an authenticity check.

“For one they did not admit to their wrongdoing. Worse still, they threatened me with dire consequences if I went to the police,” said Lewis, adding that this is what prompted him to lodge a complaint.

“I am not interested in the money. I can donate the amount to Siddhivinayak temple,” said Lewis. “All I want is that the two brothers be punished.”