The Pompey Stone was discovered in the early 1820s, and was believed to be hundreds of years old. It turned out to be a hoax, but a fairly benign one.
Research:

Behind the Scenes Minis: Piece of Work
17:48

E. Virgil Neal: Hypnotist, Fraudster, Tycoon, Part 2
41:22

E. Virgil Neal: Hypnotist, Fraudster, Tycoon - Part 1
35:28