For being a unique coin, the 1870-S half dime should bring stronger prices than what we’ve seen. (Images courtesy usacoinbook.com
Category Archives: Features
Item of the Week: 1870-S Half Dime
For being a unique coin, the 1870-S half dime should bring stronger prices than what we’ve seen. (Images courtesy usacoinbook.com
Mint Statistics: WWII, Mayflower, Ornaments, Oh My!
With the release of an almost-dizzying number of products, you will find quite a few additions to this week’s charts. Of note are the bags and rolls of the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve quarter, the Mighty Minters and U.S
Mint Statistics: WWII, Mayflower, Ornaments, Oh My!
With the release of an almost-dizzying number of products, you will find quite a few additions to this week’s charts. Of note are the bags and rolls of the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve quarter, the Mighty Minters and U.S
1949-S Franklin Half Dollar
A 1949-S Franklin half dollar, PCGS-graded MS-67. (Images courtesy Heritage Auctions.)
Slowly but surely, people are starting to discover that there are actually some pretty good Franklin half dollars
Moneyers Not ID’d on U.S. Coins
Has the United States ever identified a moneyer on our coins?
The identity of the moneyer or mintmaster on a coin dates from the time of the ancient Greek city-states; however, the United States has never marked our coinage with some indication of who was responsible for the finished product.
Why would a coin be graded Proof-55? I thought proofs were graded between Proof-60 and Proof-70.
Any proof coin certified by a third-party service to be in less than Proof-60 “condition” has problems, likely from having been mishandled
Farewell to Dan Shattuc
By Michael S. Turrini
Daniel O. Shattuc, of Sunnyvale, Calif
U.S. Mint Site Crashes Nov. 5
Mint Fails to Think of Customers First
Several weeks ago, the U.S. Mint announced it would issue a special U
George H.W. Bush Products Set for December
On Dec. 4, the U.S
Privy Mark Eagles ‘Break the Internet’
It comes as no surprise that the big news in Mint product sales this week is the Nov. 5 release of the proof gold and silver American Eagle coins commemorating the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II that bear a “V75” privy mark on the obverse. The Mint reported that the limited edition coins sold out quickly – in seven minutes for the gold coin – and many users encountered issues accessing the Mint’s website (the only mode of ordering due to COVID-19) due to an unprecedented spike in traffic volume
Dec. 1 Numismatic News eLetters
from the Nov. 6 Numismatic News E-Newsletter
What 2019-dated coin would you nominate for Coin of the Year?
Here are some answers sent from our e-newsletter readers.
Without a doubt, the U
The 1971-S Eisenhower Dollar
A 1971-S Eisenhower dollar, PCGS-graded PR-70 Deep Cameo. (Images courtesy Heritage Auctions)
A coin does not have to be valuable to be interesting. That is certainly the case for the 1971-S Eisenhower dollar as the 1971-S is definitely not valuable but it is an interesting coin both in BU and in proof
2000 Cheerios Lincoln Cent
The Sacagawea dollar of 2000 has boldly detailed tail feathers inside the Cheerios box. Along with that came a 2000 Lincoln cent. Was there anything specially detailed about the Lincoln cent?
Most 2000 Cheerios Lincoln cents can only be differentiated from other 2000 cents by the special packaging in which the coin is first encountered
Bank Employees Searching Rolls
By Andy (last name withheld)
As a bank employee, I have gone through many dozens of boxes of coins on my own time, having bought the boxes with my money. I have found a lot over the years with coins and currency. I have educated many tellers over the years as they come and go about coins and currency and what to look for
Nov. 24 Letters to the Editor
Online Ordering Not Possible for All
In regard to Mr. Daniel’s frustration with being unable to order from the U.S
Massachusetts Innovation $1 Rolls Top Seller
A few more products have made their debut since our last Mint Statistics report on Oct. 21.
The America the Beautiful three-coin set honoring Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park in Woodstock, Vt
Coins for Special Occasions
From the Oct. 30 Numismatic News eNewsletter
Do you purchase coins for holidays, birthdays, or other special occasions? Which one(s)?
Here are some responses from our eLetter readers.
I purchase a 1-ounce silver coin from around the world for the birthday of each of my children and grandchildren
Bargains for Liberty Head Nickels
By Mark Benvenuto
A PCGS-graded MS-65 1883 No Cents LibertyHead nickel. (Image courtesy Heritage Auctions, HA.com)
The United States Mint has been in the nickel business since 1866, even though it was still pounding out a certain amount of silver half-dimes as late as 1873
Oct. 23 e-Letter Responses
From the Oct. 23 Numismatic News e-Newsletter
Do you think living people should be portrayed on circulating coinage?
Here are some answers from our e-Newsletter readers.
A qualified no
1797 Large Cents and the Nichols Find
(Images courtesy Heritage Auctions, HA.com)
Some coins are important not because they are tougher than expected but because they are more available than might be expected. When that happens there is usually a good reason, which then makes for a very good story
Collectible v. Commemorative Coins
How can I tell when a coin is collectible or if a coin is a commemorative?
Coins can be both commemorative and collectible. You may be looking to differentiate between what may be a circulating commemorative versus a typical business strike coin. Some commemorative coins are meant to circulate, yet mark an event during one or several years
Business Strike v. Commemorative Coins
How can I tell when a coin is collectible or if a coin is a commemorative?
Coins can be both commemorative and collectible. You may be looking to differentiate between what may be a circulating commemorative versus a typical business strike coin. Some commemorative coins are meant to circulate, yet mark an event during one or several years
‘Mayflower’ Products Sail into Market
The year 2020 marks the 400th anniversary of the transatlantic voyage of the Mayflower. On Nov. 17 the United States Mint is releasing four new products to mark this momentous occasion: a silver proof coin and medal set, two-coin gold proof set, gold reverse proof coin, and a silver reverse proof medal
silver to gold ratio
Silver to Gold Ratio
Everyone must know we’re in tumultuous times with a looming election, COVID-19 uptick in infections, etc. Lots of people are inquiring about bullion. The 1-ounce gold eagle has a denomination of $50, the half-ounce of $25 and the 1/10-ounce of $5
‘S’ Proof Silver Eagles Come and Go
New this week is the 2020-S proof silver American Eagle coin. You will find the listing below in the Collector Eagle Sales chart.
The one-ounce Eagle, released Oct
eletters Nov. 10, 2020
From the Oct. 16 Numismatic News e-Newsletter
Should the U.S
1882 Seated Liberty Half Dollar
An 1882 Seated Liberty half dollar PCGS-graded PR-65 Cameo. (Images courtesy Heritage Auctions, www.HA
How to Best Collect Proof Coins
Is it better to collect 1936 to 1942 proof coins by the set or by the individual coin?
At one time, the proof set of 1936 to 1942 was the way to go, but today due to the hairsplitting grades assigned by third-party certification services, it would be challenging to find one of these sets intact as it was issued. Trying to match the coins in a set of any of these dates both grade-wise and with matching tone is challenging, but this is what collectors appear to favor.
Are proof sets for 1957 to 1963 still readily available, or have most of them been broken out to grade the coins individually?
There are still a significant number of original sets from the time period of 1957 to 1963 still available; however, if someone suspects even a single coin from such a set may grade significantly higher than the others, or if an individual coin appears to have frosted highlights, you can anticipate that set will be broken
Online-Only Mint Ordering
Online-Only Mint Ordering is Prohibitive
I have purchased products from the Mint since 1998. First, I did everything by mail and then mail orders were stopped by the Mint. You could only order by telephone or the internet
Barber Half Dollar Bargains
By Mark Benvenuto
1899 Barber half dollar. (Image courtesy USACoinbook)
When it comes to United States half dollars, there are definitely fans for almost every series we can think of, bar none. The Walking Liberty half dollar, for example, continues to be a design that plenty of collectors love
Decreased Sales Totals Abound
Give a little; take a little. This seems to be the theme of the Mint’s latest sales figures report.
Two new products make their debut in the charts this week, while there is a notable number of products whose sales totals went down since the last report
2021 Coins and Coin Series
From the Oct. 9 Numismatic News e-Newsletter
What coin or series are you most looking forward to in 2021 and why?
Here are some responses from our e-newsletter readers.
’ve started the American Innovation dollar series so that is what I will be really excited to see
Gold, Silver Commemorate 75 Years of the End of World War II
The End of World War Two 75th Anniversary gold and silver American Eagle proof coins become available from the Mint Nov. 5. (Images courtesy United States Mint
The 1983-P Quarter
1983-P quarter. (Images courtesy USACoinbookcom)
Sometimes a coin comes along and just stuns everyone as it seems to have a unique ability to rise in price to levels higher than anyone ever thought possible. It might very well be the case that the 1983-P quarter is just such a coin, and that decades from now people will still be writing about the 1983-P and how it soared to price levels that were hard to believe
Charge Coin Forerunner of Card
What is a charge coin?
Charge coins are actually the forerunner of the modern charge card. Produced in various shapes and sizes as well of any of several metal compositions or celluloid plastic, the so-called coins usually had a small hole used to hold the charge coin on a key ring. Charge coins were issued to department store clients for exclusive use at the store of issue
Let NIFC Coinage Out Into the Wild
By Christopher Sahar
As I learn more about numismatics and valuation, the more fascinating I find the phenomena of “Not Intended For Circulation” (NIFC) coinage. At many government mints, it appears NIFC coins are offered in greater abundance than circulating coinage. At the U
1864 Indian Head Penny Mystery
Indian Head Composition Mystery Solved
I have an 1864 Indian Head penny, but I didn’t know if it was bronze or copper-nickel. But on page 18 of the Sept. 29, 2020, issue, I like what it said about the shield being on the copper-nickel
Uncirculated Palladium Snapped Up
America the Beautiful quarters, American Innovation dollars and an all-new palladium Eagle coin are in the spotlight with new listings added this week.
The ATB quarter honoring Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park of Vermont was released in rolls and bags Sept. 21
2021 gold and silver American Eagle coins
From the Oct. 2 Numismatic News e-Newsletter.
What do you think of the newly released reverse designs for the 2021 gold and silver American Eagle coins?
Here are some answers sent from our e-newsletter readers
Final ATB Circulating Set On Sale Oct. 8
The 2020 America the Beautiful circulating set is the program’s final five-coin set. (Images courtesy U.S
Bargains in Peace Dollars Series
A 1927 Peace dollar. (Image courtesy USA Coinbook)
By Mark Benvenuto
Recently we took a close look at the rather hefty series that is the Morgan silver dollars, because these big coins always seem to be in the limelight when it comes to the sale of high-end pieces, and always seem to have a place in collectors’ hearts. But right along with them, perhaps eclipsed a bit in that limelight by the scope of the Morgans, are the Peace dollars
1938-S Jefferson Nickel a Hidden Gem
A 1938-S Jefferson nickel PCGS-graded MS-67 with Full Steps. (Images courtesy Heritage Auctions)
Savings rates are important for coins, and no date is a better example of that than the 1938-S Jefferson nickel. Based on its mintage, it ought to be a very good date but historically it has never lived up to its promise – almost certainly because, as the first year of a new design, it was saved
U.S. Mint Coin Glass Products
Has the United States Mint ever produced coin glass products?
The Fostoria Glass Company in Moundsville, W.Va., is responsible for most of the coin glass likely to be encountered
Type Sets Offer Flexibility, Variety
By Patrick Montrose
Looking for something new and different to collect? Try putting together a type coin Set. Type sets offer flexibility and variety. A local coin shop had a rack of used albums at great prices
Letters to the Editor: Oct. 13, 2020
Salt River Bay Quarter a Disappointment
Is it only me, or if any other collector has found any of the Salt River Bay “W” quarters, what is their condition? It took the U.S. Mint at West Point until the first or second week of August to get them out, and the condition of them is horrendous
Salt River 5-Ounce Leads Silver Pack
Silver is once again the focus of notable sales this week.
Newly recorded is the sales total for the 2020 America the Beautiful 5-ounce uncirculated coin honoring Salt River Bay National Historic Park and Ecological Preserve, of the U.S
American Eagle Palladium Uncirculated Coin on Sale Sept. 24
On Sept. 24 at noon EST, The United States Mint will begin accepting orders for the 2020 American Eagle One Ounce Palladium Uncirculated Coin.
The coin contains one ounce of 99
Mint Reveals End of WWII Designs
The Mint officially announced the designs for the 2020 End of World War II 75th Anniversary coin and medal program. The designs will be featured on a 24-karat gold coin and a silver medal.
This 24-karat, half-ounce $25 gold coin commemorates the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II
2001 American Buffalo Dollar
A 2001 American Buffalo dollar graded MS-70 by ICG. (Images courtesy Heritage Auctions)
The 2001 American Buffalo silver dollar is not just a commemorative that has done extremely well in terms of price; it is also a fascinating issue that has more than its share of interesting aspects to consider. It leaves wide open the question of whether what worked for the American Buffalo dollar can be repeated or not
ANA, ‘Remember the Member’
By Barbara J. Gregory
The September 2020 issue of The Numismatist (Page 55) carried a heartfelt plea from American Numismatic Association Executive Director Kim Kiick urging optimism with regard to the future of the hobby and the American Numismatic Association. Although her comments saddened me greatly, they were solidly on the mark
U.S. Mint Basketball Coin Surprise
Wife Plays Key Role in Obtaining Basketball Coin
OK, I see people all the time that say “I got this, or I got that,” so you can say “Hey, it’s my turn.” I had read about the Basketball coins in one of your mags, and about all there would be offered. Then we got COVID-19 and things changed
American Innovation Proof Set to Become Available
For those who missed out on buying any of the coins in the American Innovation 2020 series so far, the Mint has you covered. On Oct. 8 at noon EST, the Mint is releasing the American Innovation 2020 $1 Coin Proof Set
Curved Colorized Silver Dollars Enter Ranks
August 28 saw a milestone for both the U.S. Mint and interested collectors: Sales began of the Mint’s first-ever colorized coins
e-Letters: Sept. 29, 2020
From the Sept. 4 Numismatic News e-Newsletter.
Do you think 90 percent silver is the best form of silver investment? Why or why not?
Here are some answers sent from our e-newsletter readers
Disturbances, Interruptions on Coin Edges
The reeded edge of a coin I recently examined appears to be disturbed. Any thoughts on what this might indicate?
Disturbances or interruptions to the reeding on a coin’s edge may suggest the coin has been repaired, especially if the coin at some time was used as jewelry and a loop that had been fastened has since been removed. The reed count on coins in some series helps detect altered dates or counterfeit coins
Type 2 $20 from Casper, Wyoming
By Peter Huntoon
Anyone who knows me knows that I am no condition crank. Paper money was made to be used. If you can’t respect that, you are in the wrong game, in my opinion
2008-D Hawaii Quarter is Damaged Goods
I received this 2008-D Hawaii quarter in a normal machine-wrapped roll of quarters from my local credit union probably in late January 2020. It was in the middle of the roll along with 39 other quarters.
At first, I thought it was your typical “someone has abused this” quarter as we all see
Current Investor Impact on Hobby
From the Aug. 28, 2020, Numismatic News e-Newsletter.
Is the current strong investor interest in the marketplace good for the collecting hobby? Why or why not?
Here are some responses from our e-Newsletter readers
The Underappreciated 1950-S Roosevelt Dime
A 1950-S Roosevelt dime graded MS-68 by PCGS. (Images courtesy Heritage Auctions, www.HA
Major Reed Count Varieties Exist
Differences in the reed count make for what I would consider being minor varieties. Are there any reed count varieties that are considered to be major?
Several of the Morgan silver dollar reed count varieties usually command a strong premium as does the 1876-CC Fine Reeding Seated Liberty quarter. The 153-count reeded quarter is more common than the normal variety with the standard 113 reeds
Excellent Deals on Mercury Dimes
1916-S Mercury Dime graded MS-63. (Images courtesy Heritage Auctions, www.HA
Make Hobby Accessible to Youth
By Bob Miller
I wanted to contact you as a subscriber that has gotten back into the hobby after a nearly four-decade hiatus. I started remembering my childhood involvement with coins when I used to visit my local hobby shop, usually for models to make and baseball cards to buy, sell and trade. But I always went over to the glass cases near the back walls to look at the older silver half dollars and dollar coins
Buffalo Model for Nickel and Notes
Buffalo Model for Nickels and Notes
Being new at collecting coins, I have to rely on documentation to enlighten me about the coins I collect. The first book about numismatics I bought was the “Red Book,” 72nd edition of 2019. I thought it was a fairly good book with lots of information
Women’s Suffrage Coins Top Sales
The highlight of the week is the addition of some new Mint products to our charts, most of which honor women.
Because the Mint had released small additional quantities of the 2019-S Enhanced Reverse Proof silver American Eagle, you will see that line item listed under the “Collector Eagle Sales” category at the bottom of this page.
This week marks our first recording of sales for the 2020 Women’s Suffrage Centennial commemorative coins
Are you more interested in gold or silver?
From the Aug. 21 Numismatic News e-newsletter
Are you more interested in gold or silver?
Here are some answers sent from our e-newsletter readers.
I’m interested in both but rely more on silver
Salt River Bay Uncirculated Five-Ounce Coin
The Salt River Bay 2020 Uncirculated Five-ounce silver coin goes on sale Sept. 18 at noon EST. (Image courtesy U
1974 $1 Off-Center Pair
By Peter Huntoon
Here is a misprint situation that I thoroughly enjoy seeing. The two notes with severely off-center overprints are from the same sheet. Fred Bart offered one on eBay that was uncirculated from the G3 plate position
Best Ten-Cent Investment Ever
In 1970 when I was 16, I watched an older gentleman trying to put money into a vending machine. The machine wasn’t accepting his coins so I offered to help. When I removed the coins from the coin slot, they were five shining Mercury dimes
Activities and Projects During COVID
From the Aug. 14 Numismatic News e-newsletter
What non-collecting activities or projects have you taken up in light of hobby events being canceled?
Here are some responses from e-newsletter readers.
Without coin shows for these past several months, I have had a lot of time to read books and coin magazines (especially Numismatic News), and tend to my garden
The Scarce 1808 Quarter Eagle
The 1808 quarter eagle, an exceptional one-year type coin. (Image courtesy Heritage Auctions.)
How can a coin that lists for $18,000 just in F-12 and a “mere” $155,000 in MS-60 possibly be under-priced? That is a very good question, and the answer may just be that if the coin in question is the 1808 quarter eagle, the price may well be on the low side
How Long Can Germs Live on Coins?
How long has it been estimated germs can live on our circulating coins?
No one has a solid number, however, it is known that viruses and bacteria can survive on most surfaces for about 48 hours.
How prevalent is narcotic residue on our bank notes?
It may be surprising, but almost all of our bank notes have traces of cocaine and other illegal drugs on them. One recent study indicated that up to 90 percent of the European Union, 92 percent of the U
Remembering Coin Hobbyist Bo Atkinson
By Michael S. Turrini
It is often sad, as our hobby progresses in age, that another coin hobbyist, “Bo” Atkinson, at age 90, has passed on. It was at his retirement home where he and his wife, Iris, had relocated two decades ago
Bank Employees Searching Rolls
Bank Employees Searching Rolls ‘Absolutely Ethical’
I saw “Name Withheld’s” letter, and I have to answer: it is absolutely ethical for a bank employee to search rolls. You see, banks are in the business of taking and distributing cash. They’re not under any obligation to provide you (or anyone else) specific access to collectibles
Proof Franklin Half Dollars Make Surprising Bargains
1961 proof Franklin half dollar. (Image courtesy Heritage Auctions)
By Mark Benvenuto
Franklin half dollars are a fun series to collect, even though they sometimes get pushed into the background when the best of the best among the Walking Liberty halves take the stage, and some high-end example crosses the auction block. Yet among the Franklin halves are a rather amazing subset of beautiful coins – ones that we might find qualify as amazing in price as well
Silver Continues Upward Climb
In a trend continuing from last week, we are again singing the song of silver as it continues its upward climb at the time of this writing.
Up from second place a week ago, the best-seller this week was the 2020-W uncirculated silver American Eagle. As the spotlight on silver brightened, the unc
Buying and Selling Gold Bullion Coins
From the Aug. 7 Numismatic News e-Newsletter
Have you bought or sold gold bullion coins during this modern-day “gold rush?” Why or why not?
Here are some answers sent from our e-newsletter readers.
No
1962 Washington Quarter Not to be Taken for Granted
A 1962 Washington quarter graded MS-67 by PCGS. (Images courtesy Heritage Auctions, www.ha
Who Designed the Purple Heart?
Who designed the Purple Heart military decoration?
Elizabeth Will with U.S. Mint Chief Engraver John Sinnock can take credit
Selling Coins Trickier than Buying
By Bruce Frohman
Many coin collectors buy coins for years from dealers and fellow collectors before they sell a single coin. How many times have you met a collector who proudly proclaims, “I never sell anything”?
In the acquisition phase of collecting, many collectors give no thought to future resale by themselves or their heirs. They whimsically accumulate an incredible array of material of various quality and value
Spotlight Organizations, Collectors in Numismatic News
Spotlight Organizations, Great Collectors in NN
As someone who only recently returned to numismatics after a 55-year hiatus, I have a lot of history to catch up on. Articles on dealers such as the re-published story on Michael O’Higgins [Page 26, June 23, 2020 issue] help me decide whether or not I might want to do business with a dealer. Such articles should include both advertisers and non-advertisers to be truly helpful (otherwise they become “infomercials”)
Community Voice Response: Aug. 25, 2020
From the July 31 Numismatic News e-Newsletter.
What’s your level of trust in gold’s record-high performance?
Here are some answers sent from our e-newsletter readers.
I’m confident gold will hit $2,500
Legendary 1888 Cocobola Surfaces at Sedwick Auction 27
By Tom Michael
With Daniel Frank Sedwick LLC Treasure auctions, you can always expect to find a wonderful selection of silver cobs; those irregular, chunky silver coins produced so quickly and in such quantity through the Spanish mints in the New World. While many date, assayer, and mint denomination combinations are common, there are many others that are extremely scarce and still more being discovered as the years go by. I always take a look at the DFS Treasure Auctions to see what’s new in the cob market and to peruse the odd shipwreck finds, hoping to expand my knowledge
Community Voice Response: July 24 Numismatic News eNewsletter
from the July 24, Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
What is your opinion on the U.S. Mint issuing colorized coins? Will you be a buyer?
Here are some answers sent from our e-newsletter readers
Coin Finds: Morgan and Hobo Silver Dollars
My friend gave me a box with some silver dollars in it: Morgan and Hobo silver dollars. There is an 1881-CC, 1885-CC, and an 1886-O. This is the first time I have ever heard of these coins
The 1794 Half Cent
This 1794 half cent is graded XF-45 by Numismatic Guaranty Corporation. (Images courtesy Heritage Auctions, www.ha
Modern $5 Gold – Even on a Budget
By Mark Benvenuto
The United States Congress brought a commemorative coin program back to life in 1982 in a quiet, almost simple sort of way. They authorized a single half-dollar coin honoring the 250th anniversary of the birth year of President Washington. The next year saw an explosion of commems, all aimed at the 1984 Olympic Games held in Los Angeles
Stone Mountain Half a Reminder of Institutionalized Racism
By Robert Grand
Great art is timeless, but also inevitably tied to the time in which it was produced. Many coins are miniature works of art and as such, reveal the ideals and prejudices of the time in which they were minted.
Today, as we struggle with issues of social justice, and particularly as we examine the role of civil war monuments and what they signify to Black Americans (indeed all Americans), it may be instructive to examine a coin issued in 1925 known as the Stone Mountain commemorative half dollar
Letters to the Editor: Aug. 11, 2020
Research Reveals Find Created by Chet Krause
Check out this historic find! The steel penny isn’t part of it, it’s just something I picked up at the same time. I started researching and found that this publication’s founder made these. I thought it was a cool find considering I’m in Florida
Reader’s Showcase: Series of 1929 Notes
By Peter Huntoon
Pete Papadeas has been collecting layout varieties on Series of 1929 notes with particular attention to the odd fonts, special symbols, and punctuations used on New Jersey notes.
A true prize along these lines that he found are the layouts used for this Woodstown bank. The bank received printings from three different sets of 1929 plates
Proof Silver Eagles Come Out on Top
It was a quiet week as far as new releases go, but for top sellers, silver continues to dominate.
The front-runner this week is the 2020-W proof silver Eagle coin. With a hearty week-over-week gain of 18,089, it cracked 300,000 with a current overall total of 300,543
Community Voice Response: Aug. 11, 2020
from the July 17, Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
Have you come across counterfeits or suspected fakes during your time in the hobby? If so, what have you seen?
Here are some answers sent from our e-newsletter readers.
I’ve gotten a few fake ancients at different times, one even fooled two high-ranking dealers/collectors. Thankfully I got refunds on them all
U.S. Mint to Issue Its First-Ever Colorized Coins
Aug. 28 marks a first for the U.S
Gallery Mint Museum Replica Producer
Who is the Gallery Mint Museum and is it okay to buy their coins?
The Gallery Mint Museum was located in Eureka Springs, Ark. It produced excellent replicas of U.S
Collecting Budget Morgan Dollars
By Mark Benvenuto
Morgan dollars have without a doubt enjoyed widespread popularity among collectors for as long as anyone can remember, for a variety of reasons. They are big, silver coins. Many of them exist in high, Mint State grades
The Masterpiece Syndrome
Writer’s Name Withheld
I am a recent coin collector whose preference when it comes to coins are modern and ultra-modern coins. When I share this with most seasoned collectors and coin dealers, there is a tinge of unintentional condescension. I find this group doesn’t seem that interested in discussing the wonderful and historically informative designs of the Native American dollars produced since 2009
America the Beautiful Quarter Products Hit Market
More America the Beautiful quarter products have hit the market, and you will see their listings added to this week’s charts.
The three-coin set honoring Weir Farm National Historic Site in Connecticut was released June 29. The set, comprised of a “P” uncirculated quarter, a “D” uncirculated quarter, and an “S” proof quarter, has sold 11,375 since its debut
Community Voice Response: Aug. 4, 2020
From the July 10, Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
How has the COVID-19 pandemic changed the way you collect coins?
Here are some answers sent from our e-newsletter readers.
I have changed nothing due to COVID.
Brian Schneider
via Facebook
Now that all of the coin shows and conventions are canceled, I am saving a lot of money
Community Voice Response: July 10, 2020
From the July 3, Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
Do you purchase coin lots when adding to your collection? Why or why not?
Here are some answers sent from our e-newsletter readers.
I have searched for and bought coin lots locally for many years. Putting ads in local papers and being able to buy coins and compete “collections” has helped me build the majority of my collection
Community Voice Response: June 26 e-Newsletter
From the June 26, Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
Do you think consumers will feel the effects of the U.S. coin shortage? Have you noticed anything different from where you live?
Here are some answers sent from our e-newsletter readers
Community Voice Response: June 26 e-Newsletter
From the June 26, Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
Do you think consumers will feel the effects of the U.S
1822 Half Eagle a Numismatic Treasure
This 1822 half eagle is graded PCGS AU-50. (Images courtesy National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian Institution via PCGS.com
1822 Half Eagle a Numismatic Treasure
This 1822 half eagle is graded PCGS AU-50. (Images courtesy National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian Institution via PCGS
Coin Lots Make Collecting Fun
By Daryl Conley
I may be an atypical collector; I may even suffer a bit from ADD when it comes to collecting. Some collectors focus on a certain type or series of coin, or even certain metal content such as gold or silver. Some focus on completing an entire set, putting together a registry set, or completing a BU or MS type set
Letters to the Editor: July 14, 2020
No Coin Shows for California
For the first time in many years, California does not have a single coin show in the listing section of Numismatic News. This happened in the June 23 edition. All shows this summer have been canceled amid dim prospects that public gatherings of over 10 people will be allowed by local governments
Downward Sales Adjustments Abound
What goes up, must come down, is not how we typically look at cumulative sales figures from the U.S. Mint – but it seems to be a common thread this week
Community Voice Response: July 14, 2020
From the June 19, Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
Do you think it’s a good idea for the ANA to relocate the 2020 World’s Fair of Money to another state?
Here are some answers sent from our e-newsletter readers.
Yes, they should move it if they can have a show this year.
Lee Quast
High Ridge, Mo
1999 George Washington $5: An Overlooked Commemorative
The gold 1999 George Washington commemorative $5. (Images courtesy United States Mint, usmint.gov
Do I Have a 1901/O-S Half Eagle?
How can I tell if I have a 1901/O-S half eagle?
This overdate variety is known as Breen 6780. It can be identified via the remnant of the curve of a “0” near the upper right of the final “1” in the date.
The motto “In God We Trust” first appeared on our bank notes during the Eisenhower administration in the 1950s
Average Collector at Disadvantage
By Larry Steinfeld
I’m afraid that I am like all the rest of the people in this country who have to depend on large coin collectors to receive the coin I received today. All the big coin collectors have us small collectors at a disadvantage. We are unable to get these coins at our local banks
Letters to the Editor: June 30, 2020
‘W’ Quarter Find Renews Collecting Passion
I would like to give my opinion on the “W” quarters program. I have been a collector for about 65 years, and in the last few years I have been keeping up on the hobby through Numismatic News but not making any new purchases.
I started looking for the “W” quarters and found one
Basketball Coin Sales Begin
With sales of the Basketball Hall of Fame coins and products beginning June 4, new entries have been added at the top of this page’s chart.
The first of the Mint’s 2020 commemorative releases, the coins honor the 60th anniversary of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Surcharges from sales of the coins benefit operations and education programs at the Hall of Fame
COVID Business Landscape: Part V
By Tom Michael
As we wrap up our look into what changes the COVID-19 pandemic has brought to the coin business, we want to thank everyone who participated, sharing their insights and adaptations so that we might share them with our readers. We hope this mini-series has provided a breath of fresh air to all who have read it, while reminding everyone of the resilience and resourcefulness endemic in our shared hobby and industry.
In this last installment, we bring you news from three of the largest producers of gold and silver commemorative and bullion coins in the world, plus an inside look at the workings of two creative coin originators who continue to push the traditional boundaries of modern collectible coinage
Background on the Belleville Mint
What is the story behind the Belleville Mint?
John Gibbs of Belleville, N.J., billed himself as the Manufacturer of Medals and Tokens
In Response to YN Viewpoint
I want to start out by saying I am of the older generation and a longtime collector. I want to applaud Radek Molchan for being a page at coin shows and his interest in coin collecting. That is great and I am glad to hear his opinion
Letters to the Editor: June 23, 2020
‘Coin Finds’ Inspiration
I just finished reading my latest Numismatic News (April 28 issue), and I very much enjoyed the new article “Coin Finds.” Since 1999, I’ve been searching coin rolls, pennies, nickels, dimes, quarters, and half dollars (mostly pennies and half dollars). I would like to talk about pennies
Proof Sets See Collector Demand
Since our last Mint Statistics report, the Mint’s America the Beautiful products honoring the Weir Farm National Historic Site have been tallied.
You will see a Weir Farm entry included in the America the Beautiful 5-Ounce Coins chart on this page and in the Bags and Rolls section where sales totals are recorded for 100-coin bags, two-roll set for Philadelphia and Denver, San Francisco rolls, and the P, D, S rolls set.
Proof Sets are the name of the sales game this week
Community Voice Response: June 23, 2020
From the May 29, 2020, Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
How big of a role do auction results play in your collecting approach?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
Auction results play some part in my collecting decisions; if I had to place this on a percentage basis, I’d say that auctions represent at least 20 percent, taking into consideration other factors that may/may not impact collecting decisions.
Ron Tartarella
Plano, Texas
None at all
Coin Finds: Buried Treasure in 1974
When I went through my change I found a 1944 Lincoln wheat penny from the San Francisco Mint and a 1944 Lincoln wheat penny from the Denver mint. I wonder if they are of any value since I believe they were supposedly taken out of circulation for the war efforts.
Roy Reignier
Riverton, Wyo
Community Voice Response: May 22, 2020
From the May 22, 2020, Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
With the cancellation of coin shows, has your online buying and selling activity increased? Why or why not?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
Yes, my online buying has increased substantially, especially since March of this year. I typically buy American Silver Eagles each month, but they have become very scarce and at such a high premium, that I have moved onto other sources (online)
The 1793 Liberty Cap Cent
A 1793 Liberty Cap cent graded VF-30 by PCGS. (Images courtesy Heritage Auctions.)
The 1793 Liberty Cap cent, simply based on the date, is a good coin
Viewpoint: Nugget News Story Should Be Relevant to Coin Collectors
By Dominic Cicio
I just read your article about NGC encapsulating Gold Rush nuggets in the May 5 issue of Numismatic News. Sunken treasure generally makes a good story, and authentic Gold Rush nuggets certainly bring the Old West to mind. Now, we know the nuggets were on the way to New York City, I can only guess that because NGC encapsulated the nuggets, it makes them a collectible?
If you told us that the nuggets were going to be melted down into planchets and then off to the Philadelphia Mint to make $20 Liberty Heads, it would tie into numismatics
Letters to the Editor: June 9, 2020
YN Viewpoint Offers Valuable Insight
I read Radek Molchan’s “Viewpoint” article in the May 12, 2020, issue of Numismatic News. If you are concerned about the future of numismatics you should read it, too. I am 64 years old and started collecting Lincoln cents in 1964
Mint Stats: Silver Proof Set Tops Week’s Sales
New this week is the removal of the 2017 listings in the Proof Gold section to make way for the 2019 entries. You will find those updated numbers at the bottom of this page.
The sales standout this week is the 2020 10-coin Silver Proof Set
The 1958 Roosevelt Dime Waits in the Wings
This 1958 Roosevelt dime with Full Bands is graded MS-67 by PCGS. (Images courtesy Heritage Auctions.)
There is no way of getting around the fact that recent years have not been the best when it comes to higher prices for most Roosevelt dimes
Coin Clinic: The ‘Big Three’ Certification Services
What sets the so-called “Big Three” certification services apart from the other similar services?
Each of the companies that are well-accepted as being standards of the business of coins has made their grading standards public. Each of these services is also well-funded and can afford to advertise aggressively. Some of the lesser services offer satisfactory work, however, there are also some services that ignore problems including cleaning and environmental damage to coins
Viewpoint: Hobby Should Appeal to All
By George Kissinger
After reading the fine Viewpoint article by a YN in the May 12 issue, several key points came into focus. First, that Young Numismatist was articulate and sincere. His points are well taken
Letters to the Editor: June 2, 2020
What Type Set is This?
I used to collect Standing Liberty quarters in Fine condition. Several of them had evidence of clash marks like a star in the field. Error coins are caused by mishaps during the production cycle and are one of a kind
Community Voice Response: June 2, 2020
From the May 8, 2020, Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
Are you exploring a new collecting avenue during COVID or focusing on your current collection?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
Staying with my existing collection, organizing, documenting coins, and at the same time taking a break.
Name and Address Withheld
I am exploring a new avenue
Mint Stats: Sales Reporting Back on Track
In these days of COVID-19 where so many things feel uncertain, we welcome back a bit of consistency: U.S. Mint sales totals are now being updated on a regular weekly schedule
Star Varieties for 1798/97 Gold Eagle
A 1798/97 gold eagle graded MS-62+ by Professional Coin Grading Service. (Images courtesy PCGS)
It should come as no surprise that the first gold eagles of the United States are very tough coins. After all, back in the 1790s, a $10 gold coin was a lot of money for almost everyone
Coin Clinic: Mint Didn’t Learn High Relief Lesson
By Richard Giedroyc
Since the U.S. Mint had so much trouble striking Ultra High Relief double eagles in 1907, why did they once again attempt to strike very high relief coins in 1921, these being the Peace dollars?
Since when has the United States government ever learned from its past mistakes? This is the same government that produced the unsuccessful 20-cent coin, then introduced the equally unsuccessful Susan B
Viewpoint: Hobby Loses Great ‘Unknown’ Numismatist
By Scott Mitchell
There is an old Carole King song that alludes to our lives being a “tapestry,” so to speak. I forget the lyrics of the song, and whether or not they would even apply to what I hope to convey in this piece: however, the symbolism has remained with me. Throughout our lives, there are those with which we intersect; some for a day, some for a season, and some for most of our lifetime
Letters to the Editor: May 26, 2020
Post Office Not Subsidized by Government
In regards to the “Viewpoint” in Numismatic News Vol. 69 No. 9, written by Ron Thompson
Mint Rebounds with Basketball HOF Coins, Kennedys
It’s been a challenging couple of months for business everywhere, including the Mint, but it seems it is now making a comeback with new products scheduled for June and the Basketball Hall of Fame coins finally making their debut.
On June 4, the Mint is releasing 2020 Kennedy half dollar rolls and bags. (All images courtesy U
Community Voice Response: May 26, 2020
From the May 1, 2020, Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
Has the U.S. Mint been too quick to reopen its facilities? Why or why not?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers
Industry Insider: COVID Business Landscape
By Tom Michael
Sometime in April I received a mistaken call from an old colleague at Educational Coin Company. She had dialed my number by accident and left no message, but when I called back to check what was up, we ended up having a nice conversation. I was pleased to learn that the company’s wholesale business was doing well and that the staff was all in good health
United States Mint Announces Product Sale Dates
The 2020 America the Beautiful 5-ounce Uncirculated coin is set for release May 18. (Image courtesy U.S
New Hobby Podcast Available
By Clifford Mishler
Illustrated on the cover page of the Utah Numismatic Society’s monthly “The Mint Master” newsletter for March 2020 is an interesting and fascinating scrip issue of the Iosepa Agricultural and Stock Company. The note dates from Aug. 1, 1901, being just one of two examples believed to exist, and was issued in a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints desert colony in Utah’s Skull Valley, populated by settlers of Hawaiian descent, located in Tooele County about 75 miles southwest of Salt Lake City
Community Voice Response: April 24 e-Newsletter
From the April 24, 2020, Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
If you had to pick just one, what coin design is your favorite?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
The Liberty half dollar.
J
Item of the Week: The 1938 Washington Quarter
This 1938 Washington quarter is graded PR-64 by NGC. (Images courtesy Heritage Auctions)
A better date when it comes to a Philadelphia Washington quarter can be a relative matter. The 1938 Washington quarter is certainly better than the 1964 but with a total mintage of 564,341,347, it is probably easy to make the case that almost any quarter produced is better than the 1964
Coin Clinic: Advice For Selling U.S. Mint Proof Sets
I’ve made the decision to sell in bulk my 1960-2019 U.S. Mint standard proof sets
Viewpoint: YN Perspective Key to Hobby Future
By Radek Molchan
I am a Young Numismatist, and I come from a family that has no knowledge or interest in numismatics. I have been a page for many coins shows and I exhibit as much as possible. I enjoy the competition of the exhibits, and I enjoy being a page for the simple fact that if you work hard, you can make a little money and get some coins to add to your collection
Reader’s Showcase: 1902 Plain Back From Key West, Fla.
By Peter Huntoon
Every once in a while, a national goes by that simply takes your breath away. This 1902 plain back from Key West is just such a note. It appeared Stack’s Bowers’ Spring 2019 Baltimore sale as lot 6008
Letters to the Editor: May 12, 2020
Profitable Collecting Takes Patience
The April 14 edition of Numismatic News was excellent! Working from home has not affected your ability to put out a great product.
The “Viewpoint” by CPA Ron Thompson was insightful. With most of the piece easy to agree with, a few ideas may be viewed differently
Community Voice Response: May 12, 2020
From the April 17, 2020, Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
How do you think the landscape of the hobby will look once the pandemic is over and the market settles down?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
Primary sales will be online and auctions. Face-to-face purchases will be reduced considerably
Item of the Week: The 1833 Half Cent
An 1833 Classic Head half cent graded PR-64 Brown by PCGS. (Images courtesy Heritage Auctions)
Good values can be found in some surprising places. The 1833 half cent might well qualify as a surprising place as it is not a half cent that gets much attention, but when you consider the factors surrounding it as a good coin for the money it can start to look better and better
Coin Clinic: What Happened to the Dalles Mint?
Why was a branch mint proposed for Oregon when a mint was already in operation in San Francisco?
A Pacific Northwest mint was perceived as being necessary following the discovery of gold in Idaho in 1860. Due to the distance between The Dalles and San Francisco, gold dust was being used as currency in Oregon rather than wait for coins to be struck more than 600 miles away and shipped to Oregon.
Why wasn’t the Dalles Mint ever put into operation?
There were continuing construction delays
The Ike Dollar: A Symbol of Hope
A 1974 clad-composition Eisenhower (Ike) dollar. (Images courtesy usacoinbook.com
Letters to the Editor: May 5, 2020
Hunt Continues Despite Series ‘Roadblocks’
I have always wanted to assemble a complete collection of one or more coin denominations, but it seems there are at least one or two roadblocks in each coin series. For example, the 1916-D Liberty dime, the 1916 Standing Liberty quarter, or the 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent, just to name a few. Going back into the 19th century gets even worse, with more and more “key dates” needed to complete a collection
Community Voice Response: May 5, 2020
From the April 10, 2020, Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
Do you think the “W” quarters with privy marks are a good way for the Mint to mark the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II? Why or why not?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
It is a great idea as long as this is not to make it easier for the Mint-contracted coin dealers to more readily identify the 2020-W quarters because they let some slip through to consumers and collectors in 2019.
Metro East Coin & Currency Club
via Facebook
It seems that such a world-changing event should have at least earned the entire reverse of a coin, not just a privy mark
Item of the Week: 1949 Franklin Half Dollar
A 1949-S Franklin half dollar graded PCGS MS-67 with full bell lines. (Images courtesy Heritage Auctions)
Franklin half dollars seem to have found an audience based on record prices and dealers running prices for coins they want to buy. An impressive list once came from the Littleton Coin Company in Littleton, N
Coin Clinic: Who is Farran Zerbe?
Image courtesy of money.org
The American Numismatic Association has a Farran Zerbe Memorial Award. What can you tell me about Zerbe?
Farran Zerbe (1871-1949) was president of the American Numismatic Association (ANA) between 1908 and 1910
Viewpoint: Coins and Mankind Are Here to Stay
By Michael S. Turrini
Coin meetings and shows canceled. Possible closure national assemblages
Letters to the Editor: April 28, 2020
Scout Coin Collecting Program a Great Success
Scouts from Troop 18 in Knoxville, Tenn., recently attended a Knoxville Coin & Currency Show to work on the BSA Coin Collecting Merit Badge. Attending the coin show completed one of their requirements and also enabled the scouts to complete their collections requirements if they were missing any coins while assembling at home
Dates Not Set on Mint’s Product Schedule
At the time of this writing, the United States Mint does not have dates set for the remainder of its 2020 releases.
The last on-sale date listed on the Mint’s online product schedule is April 17 for the 2020 silver proof set. The next three products set for release are the Air Force silver medal, the American Eagle one-ounce 2020 gold uncirculated coin, and the American Eagle one-ounce 2020 palladium uncirculated coin
Community Voice Response: April 28, 2020
From the April 3, 2020, Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
How have your coin/bullion buying and selling habits changed in light of the coronavirus bearing down on the United States?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
I have been trying to buy when I can in different amounts and types so I can just keep adding to my bullion totals. Nothing too aggressive just basic silver 1-ounce rounds, 90 percent silver and maybe the occasional 1/10-ounce gold Eagle
Dimes in a Penny Roll
I get my rolls of pennies from my Community Bank. This time, I found two dimes that were the same color amidst the pennies. One dime was from 1967
1804: Standout Era Dime
1804 dime with 13 stars on reverse. (Images courtesy Heritage Auctions)
Being a tough early dime of the United States is not an easy thing to do as virtually any early dime of the United States is tough and expensive. That said, the 1804 stands out as one of the better dates
Coin Clinic: How Does Restoration Improve Coins?
What can a professional coin restoration service do to improve my coins that I can’t do by cleaning them myself?
Restoration services don’t “clean” coins; they restore them. Such services can remove artificially and deliberately applied contaminants, these contaminants having been caused by improper care or storage. This includes such contaminants as polyvinyl chloride, spots, and fingerprints
Silver Proof Set Slated for April 17
If any collectors missed a coin released so far in 2020 or were unable to purchase a specific one, a 2020 silver proof set is the way to go. The U.S
Viewpoint: Response to ‘Mint’s Unintended Consequences’
By Ron Thompson
In the March 17 issue of Numismatic News, an anonymous writer suggested: “The U.S. Mint Enters the Land of Unintended Consequences
Letters to the Editor: April 14, 2020
1982 Small ‘D’ Cent
I’m pretty sure I found a 1982-D small-print penny. How do I go about finding its worth and selling it?
Mondo Sosa
Address Withheld
In Response to Mueller Error Coin
In regards to Christian Mueller’s error coin in the March 17 Letters section, I have been an error/die variety collector for three decades. I am also a member of CONECA
Community Voice Response: April 14, 2020
From the March 20, 2020, Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
How are you occupying your time during social distancing?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
I am refreshing myself by grading my coin collection. This entails some 10,000 pieces-plus in my uncertified collection
Dreaming of Coins
I started coin collecting in 1969 with the help of my sixth-grade teacher, Mr. Thorn, in a small upstate N.Y
Item of the Week: Buffalo Nickel Error an Affordable Option
A 1938-D/S Buffalo nickel graded MS-67 by PCGS. (Images courtesy PCGS)
When you think of errors, you usually think “expensive.” For example, the 1955 doubled die obverse Lincoln cent is not cheap, and with good reason
Community Voice Response: Fri, March 13 eNewsletter
From the March 13, 2020, Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
How have the economic and travel impacts of the coronavirus affected your current collecting approach?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
I will miss connecting with my fellow collectors. In the age of cocooning, the bourse is dynamic
How Do I Determine the Grade on a Coin Described as ‘Uncirculated Details?’
How can I tell if my Hobo nickel is an original or a modern machined example?
An extremely worn, dateless Buffalo nickel without a mint mark likely of low value is used as the host coin for most modern reproductions. Cut lines are sharp and clean, while lacking residue in those cuts. You should not be able to feel the engraving if you have an original
A Collector’s Pot of Gold
St. Patrick’s Day is March 17 but collectors won’t need the luck of the Irish to score this product. On March 19 at noon EST, the Mint is releasing its American Eagle 2020 gold proof four-coin set
Letters to the Editor: March 31, 2020
Artificial Rarity
In the Feb. 25, 2020 issue of Numismatic News, Steve McGowan poses 10 excellent questions for the U.S
Community Voice Response: March 31, 2020
From the March 6, 2020, Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
What coin or coin series do you consider to be the most underrated?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
Franklin half dollars.
Peter Gehrke
Address withheld
The large cent
Community Voice Response: Feb. 28, 2020
From the Feb. 28, 2020, Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
We are less than a year away from the end of the Mint’s America the Beautiful quarters program. Are you still collecting them?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers
Item of the Week; 1870-S $3 Gold
The 1870-S Indian Princess Head $3 gold piece. (Images courtesy Stack’s Bowers via usacoinbook.com)
The 1870-S $3 gold piece is one of the great American rarities and one of the great American stories
Coin Clinic: How Can I Determine the Value of an Error Coin?
Wouldn’t eye appeal be superior on a coin that has a better finish than another of the same grade?
One person may like nicely toned coins while someone else doesn’t like toning at all. A third person might think the toning on one coin is attractive, while the toning on another coin is ugly. The same goes for your opinion of the mint luster, if still present
Viewpoint: Ten Years of FUN
By Glen McClary
This is my tenth year in attending the FUN show. After so many years you might think it has become more of a routine visit, but NO, it is still a fascinating experience.
Usually, I attend on Friday each year
Letters to the Editor: March 17, 2020
Boycott the Mint
I too was mad at the Mint for the way they handled the November American silver eagle fiasco. It’s amazing that 30,000 were sold in 10 minutes. I tried to get through at noon as usual, but there was a busy signal
Community Voice Response: March 17, 2020
From the Feb. 21, 2020, Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
The Morgan dollar is one of the most popular coins to collect. What role has it played in your collecting journey?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers
Reader’s Showcase: Key West, Fla.
By Peter Huntoon
Every once in a while, a national goes by that simply takes your breath away. This 1902 plain back from Key West is just such a note.
It appeared Stack’s Bowers’ Spring 2019 Baltimore sale as lot 6008
Andrew Jackson Presidential Silver Medal
If you are a Presidential medal collector, be sure to mark your calendar. On Feb. 28 at noon ET, the Andrew Jackson Presidential silver medal will be on sale from the United States Mint
1793 Wreath Cent: Were Proofs Produced
Life in 1793 at the United States Mint had to be exciting. It is unfortunate that there were no recordings or other ways of saving what went on that year. For historical reasons, it would be nice to determine exactly what happened and why
Community Voice Response: e-Newsletter Feb. 14
From the Feb. 14, 2020, Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
Are you concerned about the ever-increasing tax requirements that affect coin dealers? What impact do you think it will have on the hobby?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
I used to be a part-time dealer for a few years; it wasn’t a business and I wasn’t in it for the money
Coin Clinic: Has the U.S. Ever Restruck Coins of Another Country?
There are now services that will “conserve” my problem coins. What is the difference between their conserving my coins and someone else cleaning them?
The principle goal of conserving a coin is to remove any detrimental materials from the surfaces while protecting the surface originality. A coin that has been cleaned may have contaminants removed, however, the surface is no longer original
Why I Collect West Virginia Scrip
By Billy Campbell
When I first started collecting coal scrip about 16 years ago I knew nothing about scrip. We were passing through Beckley, W.Va
Letters to the Editor: March 3, 2020
New 2021 Silver Eagle Proposed Design
Again, America loses an opportunity to make a great design. The new eagle is great on the reverse, but arrows should be in the eagle’s claws, not olive branches. It continues to make America look weak just like the obverse with Walking Liberty
Community Voice Response: March 3, 2020
From the Feb. 7, 2020, Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
Have you come across any error coins in circulation or in an inherited collection? If so, what was it?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
I’ve found a few “BIE” error coins, a couple of RPMs, some strike-throughs, and a couple die breaks
Item of the Week: The 1804 Gold Eagle
An 1804 Crosslet eagle. (Images courtesy Heritage Auctions)
The 1804 gold eagle is closely related to the famous 1804 silver dollar. There is one variety of the 1804 gold eagle that is actually tougher than the 1804 silver dollar but much less expensive, making the 1804 potentially one of America’s least-known rarities despite its famous date
Coin Clinic: Color Designations
Are the color designations Brown, Red Brown, or Red a judgment call on half cents, cents, and 2-cent coins or is there some standard a coin must reach to be identified as such?
Uncirculated and Proof U.S. copper coins are considered to be Brown if they retain less than 5 percent of their original mint glow, Red Brown if the original red color covers 5 to 95 percent of the obverse and reverse surface, and Red if more than 95 percent of the surface retains this original color
Viewpoint: Rethinking Coin Designs
By Bill Tuttle
While on YouTube, I came across a channel whose author talked about his “Ten least favorite coin designs” and made some suggestions for better designs (in his opinion). That got me rethinking about what I’ve written in the past about changing the coin and currency of our money.
The Union Shield cent was one of the ugliest coins listed
Letters to the Editor: Feb. 25, 2020
Missing Lincoln
I have found a 1980-D cent with no Lincoln in the Memorial. I went over the coin to see if it had been there at any time. The coin is about MS-63
With Brexit now a certainty, will you be watching for Brexit commemorative coins to be issued?
From the Jan. 31, 2020 Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
With Brexit now a certainty, will you be watching for Brexit commemorative coins to be issued?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
As an English numismatist for 60 years, but as a convinced European, I am deeply resentful that my hobby is being sullied by the official issue of a coin to mark such an unworthy event
The Difference Between Prooflike and Deep Mirror Prooflike
What is the difference between a Prooflike and a Deep Mirror Prooflike Morgan silver dollar?
A coin must first be at least Mint State 60 to qualify for either. According to Professional Coin Grading Service, the Prooflike has “mirrored surfaces at a distance of two to four inches. If the cartwheel effect or striations cause an area to lose clarity, the designation will not apply
Contemporary v. Modern Fantasy
Why would it have been expected that there would be more demand for the 20-cent coin in western states in 1875 than in the East?
There was a shortage of circulating currency in the West at that time, much of it brought about by the refusal of many people to accept anything but specie. This eliminated the circulation of the cent, 2-cent, 3-cent nickel, and the nickel 5-cent coins as well as paper money. Silver dollar production had ceased two years earlier, while Trade dollars weren’t meant for domestic use
Batty for New Samoa Coin
The 2020 America the Beautiful Quarters Program is kicking off with the National Park of American Samoa quarter rolls and bags, which go on sale Feb. 3 at noon (ET). The Uncirculated 5- ounce silver coin will go on sale Feb
Community Voice Response: eNewsletter Jan. 24
From the Jan. 24, 2020 Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
Will you purchase a 2020 coin or medal commemorating the 75th anniversary of the end of World War Two? Why or why not?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
Yes, if it is reasonably priced to match my budget
1942/41 Mercury Dime Overdate
In the world of errors, there are relatively few major coins that have widespread recognition and general acceptance by collectors. The 1942/41 Mercury dime has to be considered one of the very few errors in U.S
Reader’s Showcase: 1929 $50 from Yankton, S.D.
By Peter Huntoon
This very attractive new-to-the-census about uncirculated 1929 $50 from Yankton, S.D., went by in both the 2019 Heritage FUN and 2019 Knight IPMS auctions
Congressional Medals For Organ Donors
By Kari Browers
Several years ago, a senator and congressman introduced a bill that would give organ donors a congressional bronze medal for their unselfish act. For some reason, however, it did not gain enough support. Perhaps if the need for organ donation hit closer to home, more people would be in favor of a congressional medal for organ donors
Letters to the Editor: Feb. 11, 2020
Numismatic News Update
A smile came across my face while reading the “Editor’s Note” in the Jan. 7, 2020 issue of Numismatic News.
It is a welcome announcement that Numismatic News will focus on the print issue
Community Voice Response: Feb. 11, 2020
From the Jan. 17, 2020 Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
How do you predict the coin market will fare in 2020?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
Considering the U
Last Coin in Declaration Preamble Series Released
The final coin of the U.S. Mint’s Preamble to the Declaration of Independence platinum proof series is on deck
The 1796 Quarter
Images courtesy Heritage Auctions
There are not many coins in the history of the United States about which it can truly be said that they are both very scarce and very historic, but both things apply to the 1796 quarter, and that makes it a very special coin.
The 1796 quarter has a very secure place in history as it was the first quarter of the United States. The fact that it was not produced until 1796 is perhaps a good indication as to how low a priority producing quarters really was at the time
Coin Show Etiquette Suggestion
By John Quarfoth
I appreciate the “Coin Show Etiquette” part one (as a buyer) and part two (as a seller) articles.
The articles included good tips for the collector both as a buyer and as a seller.
I think a third article is needed, “Coin Show Etiquette’” part three (dealer etiquette)
Letters to the Editor: Feb. 4, 2020
Speculators and the U.S. Mint
I found what I could read of Bruce Frohman’s article on speculators (my copy was partially shredded by the post office) very interesting
Community Voice Response:
From the Jan. 3, 2020 Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
Do you think there is as much gold in Fort Knox as the government claims? How much do you think is actually there?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
Yes, I believe what they say that there is 147
Community Voice Response: Jan. 10 e-newsletter
From the Jan. 10, 2020 Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
Have you encouraged friends or family to become involved in the hobby? Was it successful?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
I am a fortunate man
Artist’s Renditions for Unissued Chinese Notes Star of Spink Auction
On. Jan. 3, 2020, Spink held its “Banknotes, Bonds & Shares and Coins of China and Hong Kong” auction
2020 ATB Quarters Proof Set
The 2020 America the Beautiful Quarters Proof Set (product code 20AP) will be available for purchase on Jan. 14 at noon EST, according to the United States Mint.
Priced at $18
Community Voice Response: Jan. 10, 2020
From the Dec. 27 Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
What is your level of confidence in gold as an investment?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
My level of confidence in gold as an investment is almost as high as the national debt
BEP and U.S. Mint Participating at 2020 FUN Show
The Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) and the United States Mint (Mint) will share booth #144 at the Florida United Numismatists (FUN) Show at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL, Jan. 9 – 12, 2020.
The BEP is showcasing its Billion Dollar Exhibit featuring more than $1 billion worth of rare antique currency, including sheets of $100,000 currency notes, Treasury Bonds, and Gold and Silver Certificates
The 1908 No Motto Double Eagle
1908-A 1908 Saint-Gaudens double eagle with No Motto. (Images courtesy Heritage Auctions)
Some coins are important because they are virtually impossible while others are important because they are more available than might be expected. It is the latter which is certainly the case with the 1908 No Motto Saint-Gaudens double eagle
What Are World War Two Tokens Made Of?
Are World War Two ration tokens made of cardboard?
The tokens are made of vulcanized fiber. The dyes used to make the tokens blue or red included an ultraviolet component meant to deter counterfeiters.
Why were these ration tokens produced? Weren’t there enough coins in circulation?
Many metals were considered too critical to the war effort to be spared for use in coins during the years of World War Two
Hope For the Hobby
by Roy Herbst
One of the biggest laments you keep hearing about numismatics is who is going to be the future collectors since younger people seem to have, at best, a lackadaisical interest in the hobby.
I know my own children, despite my constant prodding, are just not interested. I have dragged them to coin shows and even an auction or two but to no avail
Letters to the Editor: January 21, 2020
In Defense of the U.S. Mint
I just finished reading the letters in the Dec
American Eagle 2020 One Ounce Silver Proof Coin, Congratulations Set
Luck be a lady tonight, or in this case, Lady Liberty. Another new product that the United States Mint is putting out during the first quarter of the new year is the American eagle one-ounce silver proof coin. It is set to go on sale Jan
Community Voice Response: Jan. 21, 2020
From the Dec. 20 Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
What hobby activities do you kick off the new year with?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
Either F
1836 Half Dollars
An 1836 Reeded Edge half dollar graded AU-53, GR-1 PCGS Secure. (Images courtesy Heritage Auctions.)
There are two related but very different 1836 Bust half dollars
Mint Updates Sales Figures December 16
After a six-week hiatus, the U.S. Mint released updated sales numbers in an email to industry editors Dec
Community Voice Response: Jan. 1, 2020
From the Dec. 13 Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
What are your numismatic resolutions for the new year?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
One of my numismatic resolutions is to do what I can to make sure coin collector’s concerns are represented and NOT deep-pocket businesses
Mint’s Birthday Sets Kick Off 2020
While most of us are busy preparing for and perhaps already celebrating our December holidays, the Mint is readying its first products set to go on sale in the new year – and marking births and birthdays is the theme.
The first products available for collectors to purchase in 2020 are the Happy Birthday Coin Set, the Birth Set, and the Happy Birthday Currency Note. All three items go on sale at noon EST on Jan
Did They Try to Get a Mint in Chicago?
In an answer, you mentioned that the Indian Head and Lincoln cents were struck at the same time in 1909. Weren’t the Buffalo nickels and Jefferson nickels both struck in 1938?
As nearly as I can find, the last Buffalo nickels were struck at Denver in early 1938, legally completing the 25-year requirement. Schlag’s design for the Jefferson nickel was not accepted until late July, so production would not have started until later in the year, meaning the two did not overlap
Reader’s Showcase: Perryopolis note
Peter Huntoon
There is nothing quite like landing a national from the town where you were raised, particularly if it turns out to be the first of its kind in the census. Gerald Dzara reeled in this very attractive Perryopolis note under exactly these conditions. It is the first type 2 $10 reported from the bank
Is There Any Way to De-Whiz Coins?
I have a sealed mint bag of Denver cents, dated Nov. 11, 1982. Would the coins be the small or the large-date variety?
They are probably the small date
Community Voice Response: Dec. 24, 2019
From the Nov. 28 Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
Do you collect numismatic items marking the Chinese Lunar New Year? If so, what types of items do you collect?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
I collect various Chinese Lunar coins depending on the occasion
Georgia Innovation Dollar Rounds Out 2019
The last American Innovation dollar coin issued in 2019 is also the final product scheduled to go on sale from the Mint this year. Bags and rolls of the dollar commemorating the state of Georgia and its Trustees’ Garden will be available Dec. 19 at noon EST
Nominees for 2020 Coin of the Year Awards Determined
It’s that time of year again! Time to start the process of narrowing down nominations for the Coin of the Year Program. Australian coins came out on top, earning a total of nine nominations in eight different categories, as the 37th annual Coin of the Year (COTY) program kicked off with nominee selection of 2018-dated coins.
The awards competition, presented by World Coin News and sponsored by The Journal of East Asian Numismatics, begins each year when the COTY Nomination Committee convenes to select the nominees
Mint Issues 2020 Year of Rat Note
Image courtesy of the U.S. Mint
If Lucky Money is on your holiday gift-giving list this year or is simply a collecting tradition, keep your eye out for the $1 Year of the Rat 2020 product to become available at noon EST on Dec
Who designed the 1792 disme?
Can coins having belonged to Binion be identified?
Many of the more select coins, especially Morgan silver dollars, that Ted Binion put aside were later authenticated and graded by Numismatic Guaranty Corporation®. The coins include an acknowledgment they once belonged to Binion on their NGC® label.
The United States issued U
Reverse Proof Pennsylvania American Innovation Coin on Sale Dec. 5
image courtesy of the U.S. Mint
On Oct
Enhanced Reverse Proof Sale a ‘Fiasco’
By Steve McGowan
As what seems to be the new “norm” for the U.S. Mint, there was a fiasco on the Nov
Letters to the Editor: Dec. 17, 2019
Frank Church River of No Return Quarter
I found five of the Frank Church River of No Return W mint quarters on Nov. 16.
Warren Lane
Address Withheld
New Presidential Dollar
With the passing of President George H
Community Voice Response: Dec. 17, 2019
From the Nov. 22 Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
Would you ever own “paper” (non-physical) gold? Why or why not?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
No
How War Medal Production Delayed Proof Coin Production
When did the U.S. mints finally satisfy the country’s demand for coins?
It may come as a surprise, but it wasn’t until the 1870s that production caught up with demand
Searching for Silver
I was shopping for lunch and dinner. As a habit, I checked the Coinstar machine and found a few coins. They turned out to be a 1946 Roosevelt, a 1940 “wheatie” and a 1999 Canadian quarter
Frank Church Set Available Nov. 26
The Mint’s final 2019 America the Beautiful three-coin set goes on sale at noon EST on Nov. 26.
The quarters pay homage to Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness in Idaho
Community Voice Response: Dec. 10, 2019
From the Nov.15 Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
Do you collect medals in addition to coins? If so, what types? If not, why?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
Rarely would I collect medals
The 1796 Dime
The 1796 dime. Images courtesy of Heritage Auctions
It has few peers in terms of historical importance, and for those who like tough coins, it also qualifies on that front as the 1796 is both historic and scarce. The only real problem with the 1796 is that you have to find one being offered and then you have to be able to afford it which is sometimes easier said than done
1944 Jefferson nickel without mintmark
I have a 1944 Jefferson nickel without a mintmark. The Red Book states, “1944 nickels without mintmarks are counterfeits.” Why would someone go through the trouble of counterfeiting a nickel that otherwise lacks numismatic value? Is it possible this could be a mint error coin?
There are no known mint error 1944 nickels lacking a mintmark
Adams Presidential Medal Rounds Out Year
The last of four Presidential medals issued in 2019 will honor President John Quincy Adams. The silver piece goes on sale from the Mint today.
The Adams medal joins those issued this year for Thomas Jefferson in January, James Madison in May and James Monroe in August
Community Voice Response: Dec 3, 2019
From the Nov. 8 Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
What coins are on your wish list this holiday season?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
I want a 1955 Lincoln double die for Christmas
What is a Nevada ‘Pooping Horse’ Quarter?
What is a Nevada “Pooping Horse” quarter?
The best-known state quarter varieties are the Wisconsin “Extra Leaf” coins of 2004. These two varieties were caused by some change or alteration to reverse dies. The lesser-known 2006-P Nevada “Pooping Horse” quarter is a variety caused by an extra piece of metal somehow getting into the reverse die in a position where it appears the horse to the far right may be relieving itself
Delaware American Innovation 2019 $1 Reverse Proof Coin
On Nov. 7, the U.S
Coin and Currency Set Hits Ground Running
This week saw one new product added to the charts: the 2019 Youth Coin and Currency Set. This product marks both a first and a last. It is the first time the Mint has produced a coin and currency set focused on the younger generation, and it the last kid-focused product to be issued this year
Community Voice Responses: Nov. 26, 2019
From the Nov. 1 Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
Do you think special finishes like Reverse Proof and Enhanced Uncirculated are worth collecting? Why or why not?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
Yes
Frank Church Bags, Rolls Now on Sale
On Nov. 4, the bags and rolls for the American the Beautiful quarter honoring Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness began at noon EST.
The Frank Church quarter is the fifth released in 2019 and 50th overall in the ATB quarter program
Coin Finds: Coin Collecting Partner
I have what I consider a disappointing coin find. I collect Kennedy half dollars and for the last few years, I have been buying uncirculated rolls. This year I bought my usual two sets and was breaking one set for gifts and resale when I discovered that the reverse of the Denver half was deplorable
Coin Clinic: Nov. 19, 2019
Do you have statistics on the Lincoln cent die life?
In 1909, the Lincoln cent dies were listed as 150,000. In 1914, Denver cent dies averaged 198,833. By the 1970s new steels and hardening raised them to more than a million for the obverse and 1
Pennsylvania Innovation $1 Sales Numbers In
With the Oct. 24 release of the 2019 American Innovation dollar honoring Pennsylvania, we’ve added a new chart to the Bag and Roll section.
The Pennsylvania coin is the second of four to be released this year
Community Voice Responses: Nov. 19, 2019
From the October 25 Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
How has your involvement with a club or organization enhanced your hobby experience?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers
The smartest decision I made was to join the Charlotte Coin Club years ago. There’s a huge amount of knowledge among the members that they are always willing to share. Plus, there are always some good deals available for purchase
Youth Coin and Currency Set Available Oct. 31
The U.S. Mint’s first youth-focused coin and currency set becomes available for purchase at noon EST Oct
Item of the Week: 1838-O Half dollar
1838-O half dollar. (Images courtesy of Heritage Auctions)
Without a lot of fanfare except among specialists, the 1838-O half dollar is probably on a very short list of the most important coins of the United States and also on the short list of the most historic.
The story of the 1838-O dates back before 1838 to the agreement to establish a branch mint in New Orleans
Reader’s Showcase- Mt. Gilead, Ohio
by Peter Huntoon
Brett Irick sent this pair of notes that he assembled from Gilead, Ohio, (his birthplace.) Both are the only reported notes respectively from the Granite Bank and The First National Bank. The 25-cent scrip dated November 25, 1862, predates by 27 years the $5 brown back, which was printed in 1889
Resurrecting the silver dollar for circulation in 1840
Was the Manila Mint a branch mint of the U.S. Mint or did it operate independently?
The Manila Mint began as the Casa de Moneda for the Philippines under Spanish domination
Letters to the Editor: Nov. 12, 2019
War in the Pacific ‘W’ Mintmark
I was in the self-checkout at Walmart four weeks ago here in Mt. Vernon, Ill., and received a little bit of loose change for my purchase
Limited Edition Silver Proof Set Starts Strong
New in this week’s reporting is the 2019 limited edition silver proof set.
It contains eight silver coins: an American Eagle one-ounce silver proof coin with “S” mintmark, the five 2019-dated America the Beautiful quarters, a Kennedy half dollar and a Roosevelt dime.
The set made a strong debut with 29,691 sold in the four days since its release on Oct 17
Thrill of the Hunt
My boys, ages 7 and 11, and I have just recently gotten into coin hunting and collecting within the past year. We have found that buying $50 bags of pennies from banks is the easiest resource for us and we have met some great people that are willing to help us get coins to search. We have found the usual wheats, Canadians, minor varieties, a few errors, plus the occasional dime and washer
Pennsylvania Innovation $1 Bags, Rolls on Sale
Dr. Jonas Salk and his team developed the polio vaccine. The feat is captured on the Pennsylvania American Innovation $1 coin that becomes available in bags and rolls Oct
The 10th Anniversary 1995-W Silver American Eagle
Shown here is a 10th Anniversary 1995-W Silver American Eagle Proof. Images courtesy ofHeritage Auctions
It was a single special silver American Eagle and as such, it was expected to attract a lot of attention, but when the 1995-W silver American Eagle was offered, it did not result in the sort of sales which might have been expected. This has resulted in the 1995-W silver American Eagle becoming an extraordinary coin today and one which seems to keep looking better and better with the passage of time
The Mint Urban Legend of the 1875 Dot Indian Cent
I’ve noticed a small dot in the “N” in “United” on my 1875 Indian Head cent. Is this a variety worth noting?
There is an interesting story behind the 1875 Dot Indian cents. It is believed a mint employee was suspected of stealing coins, according to a mint urban legend
Increasing Coin Club Memberships
by Bruce Frohman
A general consensus in the coin collecting community is that the hobby is in decline. Attendance is down at many clubs.
The perception of hobby health may be inaccurate
Letters to the Editor: Nov. 5, 2019
Silver Lindbergh Medal
I have a 1927 Paris Mint Charles Lindbergh medal in silver. It is three inches wide and its edge is stamped “2 Argent.” Lindbergh wears a suit on the obverse and the reverse shows a trans-Atlantic path of Lindbergh’s flight
Circulating ATB Set, Innovation Proof Set Debut
The drought is over! You will notice that the 2015 America the Beautiful circulating and uncirculated coin set listings have been removed to make room for a new ATB product: the 2019 circulating coin set. Its debut week of sales made a strong showing at 14,113.
Also new this week is the 2019 American Innovation $1 proof set
Community Voice Responses: Nov. 5, 2019
From the October 4 Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
Is attracting speculators good or bad for the hobby?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers
Some are good and some not so good. I’ve been collecting coins for a long time and like (some)other collectors, haven’t really thought much about grading if the coin looks good and it’s clean (not cleaned). I belong to several coin clubs & if I ask for some comments on grading, then I get lots of different comments
Silver Proof Set Available Oct. 17
Collectors will have the opportunity to get their hands on the U.S. Mint’s 2019 Limited Edition Silver Proof Set when it becomes available at noon tomorrow, Oct
1792 Half Dime
1792 half dime, flattened. PCGS Genuine. (Images courtesy Heritage Auctions
Short Snorters and Courtesy Autograph Notes
Is there any premium value to a banknote that has been autographed above the facsimile signature by the Treasurer of the United States?
There is a modest premium for such notes, depending on who signed the note, the condition of the note, and the denomination. Mary Ellen Withrow notes appear to be the most common. During her term, she became a Guinness Book of Records record holder for having signed notes in person
Dollar Programs Continue to Be Unpopular
2009 Native American golden dollar. (Image courtesy of the U.S
Letters to the Editor: Oct. 29, 2019
Cleaning a Coin
When a grading service renders a coin improperly cleaned that implies there is a way to properly clean a coin. What are those ways? I thought any kind of cleaning was a no-no!
Rodney Pelles
Toccoa, Ga.
Innovation Coins
Thanks to my e-mail alerts from the U
Silver Shines During Product Release Slowdown
Silver continues its charge this week as we see a bit of a dry spell on new releases from the Mint. This marks the second week of no new products to add to the charts.
The silver spotlight is still shining on 2019 proof sets
Community Voice Responses: Oct. 29, 2019
From the October 4 Numismatic News E-NewsLetter
What subject would you like to see featured on a commemorative coin?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers
I would like to see the Battle of Lake Erie.
Mike Bondi
Cicero, N.Y
Silver Proof Set Available Oct. 17
The 2019 Limited Edition Silver Proof Set is available from the Mint beginning Oct. 17.
Collectors will have the opportunity to get their hands on the U
Worth the Wait: 1899 Liberty Nickel in VG8 Condition
I recently began a Quarter Type Set collection. I just purchased an 1834 Capped Bust on eBay that would grade around VG8 or 10. I could see in the photos that it was an O over F variety even though it was not described as such in the listing
Mint to Launch Innovation Proof Set
The U.S. Mint will host an Oct
Largest U.S. Proof set in number of coins
Why can’t I find an exact figure for the mintage of the 1823 large cents? You have it included in the 1824 mintage.
We use the same inclusive figure as is found in most reference works for 1824 in all our publications and catalogs, which includes all 1823-dated mintage, as this is the best available figure based on extensive research into the Mint records. The early records were frequently confused, including two or even three years of production in a lump sum, or including coins struck with dies for any of several years, so it is impossible to go beyond the generally accepted figures
2019 Proof Coins Take Bigger-than-expected Leap
After last week’s palladium plunge where the 2019-W proof palladium Eagle dropped from 16,690 to 13,319, this week it is reporting at 14,733. It must be a difficult one to reconcile!
For those of you following bullion sales, we’ve moved on to October numbers, with sales through Oct. 4
Community Voice Response: October 22, 2019
From the September 27 Numismatic News E-Letter
Do you prefer participating in online auctions or in-person auctions and why?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter reader
I prefer live auctions. I enjoy the presence of fellow collectors and the opportunity to view the coins in person.
James L
Ten-Coin Set of 2019 ATB Quarters for $8.95
The United States Mint has announced that it will begin offering the America the Beautiful Quarters 2019 Circulating Coin Set on Oct. 9, 2019 at 12 pm Eastern time.
The set includes one of each of the five circulating quarters minted in Philadelphia and one of each of the five circulating quarters minted in Denver, for a total of ten coins
Louisiana Purchase Exposition Dollars
Shown here are examples of the two 1903 Louisiana Purchase Exposition gold dollars. Jefferson is on the left with McKinley on the right. (Images courtesy of Heritage Auctions)
Did the U.S. Half cent ever have purchasing power?
I recently read about the 2019 Floating Head variety Lincoln cent in Numismatic News. Since the image wasn’t clear, can you describe the coin?
The 2019 Floating Head Lincoln cent has no neck, although the tie at the throat area is visible. Since multiples of the variety have been discovered, it is likely the variety is caused by an inferior or over-polished obverse working die than from foreign material becoming lodged momentarily in a die
The 1982 No P Circulation dime
Shown here is an example of a 1982 No P dime. Image courtesy of Heritage Auctions
by Richard Fickau
I just read the full-page article in the Sept. 17 issue of Numismatic News on the famed 1975 No S Roosevelt dime proof coin which was featured in Heritage’s Long Beach Auction
Palladium Takes a Plunge
I had to look twice and then again to make sure I didn’t make a blunder last week. Thankfully, it wasn’t my tired old eyes! Last week, our Mint Stats showed 16,690 sold of the 2019-W proof palladium Eagle and this week, the Mint released the updated numbers and instead of growing, that number decreased to 13,319 – a change of 3,371 or a 20% downward adjustment. That’s quite a reconciliation!
Silver bullion Eagles also saw a decrease, moving from 711,000 down to 686,000 in sales of the one-ounce coin
Letters to the Editor: Oct. 15, 2019
Finally Found a W Quarter
After looking at literally thousands of 2019 quarters, I finally found my first W mint. It is a Lowell quarter, and I didn’t find it in a bankroll. I was rolling up quarters from the pool table at work and found just this one example
Community Voice Responses: Oct. 15, 2019
From the September 19 Numismatic News E-Letter
The ANA is asking about the location for future World’s Fair of Money shows. What do you think? Stay in Chicago, continue rotating, or move somewhere else?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter reader
I think it should move somewhere else.
Jay (Last name withheld)
Address Withheld
Keep it in Chicago
American Innovation™ $1 from Delaware Released
Last year, the United States Mint launched the American Innovation $1 Coin Program with the release of its introductory coin. Now, in 2019, the program truly gets underway. The 2019 Delaware $1 Coin is the first of a 14-year, 56-coin series recognizing innovation and inventions in each of the 50 States, District of Columbia, and five U
$2 Charter Over Seal Variety
by Peter Huntoon
Michael Scacci sent this photo of a $2 Original Series note with the scarce charter number over seal variety from a printing made for The Bristol County National Bank of Taunton, Mass., charter 766.
He was responding to my article on the variety in the January 2019 BNR
Percentages of existing examples of old series of coins
Has anyone compiled percentages of existing examples of old series of coins?
Walter Breen cites a few figures: An estimated 3 to 6 percent of the large cents survived, 4 to 8 percent of the early silver, and 0.02 to 2 percent of the half cents. Any such figures have to be classed as estimates as there is no known way of determining exact numbers
Hidden Gem: Blazing Silver 1943 penny
One morning in April 2018 I went to a nearby store and checked the Coinstar machine to see what I could find. A couple of coins on the floor near the machine got my attention. When I looked into the reject slot, my curiosity turned into shock when I saw the reverse of a Walking Liberty Half Dollar!
As I scooped everything up (including two dimes and three pennies) and walked away, I turned over the half dollar to see the year
America the Beautiful Series: Quarter Sets of Five-Ounce Coins?
The U.S. Mint announced in their Coins Online newsletter this week that the 2019 Apollo 11 Anniversary Five Ounce Proof Silver Dollar is back in stock
Community Voice Responses: Oct. 8, 2019
From the September 13 Numismatic News E-Letter
Why do you think sales of the U.S. Mint’s American Legion 100th anniversary coins have not taken off as the Apollo 11 coins did?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter reader
They are not doing as well because almost all modern commemoratives have lost 50-75% of their original purchase price
Commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the American Legion
The United States Mint, together with the Bureau of Engraving and Printing began offering a commemorative set, recognizing the 100th anniversary of the American Legion on September 16. The set includes a commemorative 100th-anniversary coin along with a full-color print, embossed with gold foil to capture the artistry of the emblem. The print is not available individually, but only with the set
1860-O Seated Liberty Dollar
With a total mintage of 515,000, the 1860-O Seated Liberty dollars are 90% silver and 10% copper. Seated Liberty dollars from 1840 to 1866 did not include the “In God We Trust” motto, which was added back mid-1866. (Images courtesy of USACoinBook
Who were the Chapman Brothers?
Is it true that there are more counterfeit Indian $2.50 quarter eagle coins than any other U.S
Coin Show Etiquette Part Two
by Bruce Frohman
Proper Coin Show Etiquette as a Seller
Most collectors have much less experience selling than buying and must adapt to a new set of unfamiliar experiences to be successful.
Dealers need coins in order to have merchandise to sell. However, they prefer coins that they know their customers want and avoid items that they know are difficult to move
Are Bullion 2019 Silver Eagles Up to the Challenge?
There was no major movement in sales of U.S. Mint products this week
Community Voice Responses: Oct. 1, 2019
From the September 6 Numismatic News E-Letter
If you had an unlimited budget, would you buy an 1879 Coiled Hair Stella or an 1894-S Barber dime?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter reader
I have collected many things in the past (baseball cards, stamps, fossils, wildflowers, etc.) Right now I am collecting books – primarily Zane Gray and John Grisham. In general, once I get two of anything I start thinking maybe I should start a collection
Letters to the Editor: Oct. 1, 2019
DissapointMINT
Last May 28, I filled out a Mint form telling them I was missing a bonus cent from three I was supposed to receive.
In the box they were shipped in, the three cents were in a small cellophane bag, but the ends were open and not taped or stapled. I searched every part of the shipping box and the missing cent was not there
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park 2019 Quarter, 3-Coin Set
On Sept.10, the United States Mint released a three-coin set, commemorating the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. The set includes an uncirculated 2019 quarter from the Philadelphia Mint, an uncirculated 2019 quarter from the Denver Mint and a proof 2019 quarter from the San Francisco Mint
How long have we had mintmarks on coins?
I found a 1965 two-cent coin from the British Caribbean Territories-Eastern Group. Where is this group?
The BCT-EG was formed in 1950 and uses a common currency. The group includes Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, The Leeward and Windward Islands, British Guiana and The British Virgin Islands
The Market is Bullish on Bullion
Bullion Eagle sales for the month of August were modest, with 8,000 ounces of gold sold. Putting this into perspective, the three previous months closed with 4,000, 4,500, and 5,500 ounces sold. So, while 14,500 ounces isn’t as high as the January through April sales, it’s interesting to see, given the increase in the price of gold
If you had an unlimited budget, would you buy an 1879 Coiled Hair Stella or an 1894-S Barber dime?
From the August 29 Numismatic News E-Letter
If you had an unlimited budget, would you buy an 1879 Coiled Hair Stella or an 1894-S Barber dime?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers
I would buy a decent selection of 19th-Century Italian gold.
Krzysztof Fordonski
via Facebook
The Stella.
John Veach
via Facebook
Both? The 1894-S dime certainly gets more notoriety, though
2019 Palladium Eagle Features Reverse Proof Finish
On Sept. 4, the United States Mint will begin accepting orders for the American Eagle 2019 One Ounce Palladium Reverse Proof Coin.
The Mint introduced an American Eagle One Ounce Palladium Bullion Coin in 2017, followed by a collector version palladium proof coin in 2018
The First Cent that Stirred an Angry Mob
1793 Flowing Hair Wreath reverse cent. (Images courtesy of usacoinbook.com)
It was probably a case where back in 1793 working at the U
Are there any surviving 1964-D Peace dollars?
Price guides don’t appear to agree on the value of individual coins, and what’s more, many times dealers are asking prices that disagree even further. Is it really that difficult to put a value on a coin?
We like to, what a coin dealer recently called “commoditize”, the value of individual coins. Eye appeal is perhaps the most challenging part of grading and pricing a coin, but understand each coin needs to stand on its own regardless of how we may categorize it
A Rigorous Analysis of Our Hobby
by Blaine Buckman
If this has not been proposed before, I would offer we all consider together to perform a rigorous analysis of our hobby. Would we as members be able to pool information that we know or be able to obtain, analyze it using formal statistical and/or other analysis, and share that information in this publication? The goal would be to better understand how our hobby works and the relevance of it in a changing world. The possibilities are almost endless
Proof Sets Continue to Climb
The biggest sales increases this week are all from the 2019 proof coin sets column. The 10-coin clad proof set gained 3,190 and is now at a total of 390,398. The 10-coin silver proof set increased by 1,948, ending the week at 290,459
Community Voice Responses: Sept. 17, 2019
From the August 23 Numismatic News E-Letter
Are Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies a threat to the coin collecting hobby?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers
No. The more people are satisfied with fake coins, the more real coins for me.
Mark Silverman
Chicago, Ill
Letters to the Editor: Sept. 17, 2019
Congratulations
I just wanted to congratulate Active Interest Media on the acquisition of Numismatic News. I am sure you will live up to and surpass subscriber expectations.
Dom Cicio
Groveland, Fla
New Offerings for San Antonio Missions National Park Coins
Each of the 5-ounce coins includes 99.9 percent silver and is delivered in a keepsake box accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. (Image courtesy of the United States Mint)
The United States Mint will be opening sales for several new offerings of the 2019 San Antonio Missions National Historical Park coin, which are part of the America the Beautiful Quarters® Program
Why is the 1921 Canadian silver five-cent rare?
How many coins are needed for a complete Barber coin collection?
Assuming you mean the dime, quarter and half, respectively, 75, 74 and 73 coins to complete the three series, without varieties.
Listings refer to the lettered edges on the Saint-Gaudens $20 gold, but what does the lettering say?
The motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” is on the edge.
Are there two different designers for the two years of issue of the Canadian George V dollars?
The 1935 issue was the Jubilee design of Percy Metcalf, technically a commemorative
The Mint Has Been Busy with New Products
In reviewing the numbers for this week’s report, one obvious thing that stood out was the volume of new products the Mint put out since our report in last week’s paper – six to be exact. First in the report is the James Monroe silver presidential medal with sales of 7,723. Two American Liberty products were released, including the gold one-ounce coin, which sold 4,948 and the 2
Community Voice Responses: Sept. 10, 2019
From the August 16 Numismatic News E-Letter
What’s the best deal you have ever gotten that made you feel a bit guilty?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
Best deal? I don’t know if this qualifies, but an elderly patron of the bar I worked gave me an envelope that said 28 foreign coins. I didn’t have time to look at it then because it was so busy
A Breathtaking Rendition of Lady Liberty
The United States Mint American Liberty Program celebrates modern renditions of the iconic Liberty that embody the ideals of freedom and equality first set forth in our Declaration of Independence. In the 227 years since its establishment, the United States Mint has issued a vast array of medals with the concept of Liberty personified by allegorical female figures. More than two centuries of evolution have borne witness to an ever-changing symbol
Why is there a name on my Capped Bust half dollar?
Why was the production of the Peace silver dollar resumed in 1934?
Silver was being purchased at 50 cents per ounce by the government through the Act of May 12, 1933. On Dec. 21, 1933 President Franklin D
Coin Show Etiquette
by Bruce Frohman
The Coin Show is a major opportunity to buy and sell coins and provides a source of great enjoyment in our hobby. The astute collector can make the best of the experience by employing basic principles of show etiquette.
In past Numismatic News ‘Letters to the Editor,’ some collectors have complained about coin dealer behavior
1894-S Dime Sells for Over $1.3 Million
The Legendary 1894-S Barber dime is one of just 24 coins struck.Only nine examples are currently known.
Numismatic history was made in the Stack’s Bowers Galleries Official Auction at the 2019 ANA World’s Fair of Money, where an example of the legendary 1894-S Barber dime sold for over $1
2019-S Proof Silver Eagle Sales Kick Off
War in the Pacific coins seem to be popular with collectors. Looking at the numbers, the 3-coin set gained 276 since last week and is closing in the sales of the American Memorial Park that release before it which is currently at 12,631. The 5-ounce coin also gained since last week, rising from 13,378 to 13,554
Community Voice Responses: Sept. 3, 2019
From the August 9 Numismatic News E-Letter
Gold, silver, neither or both? What are you buying?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
I am not buying anything while prices are up.
David Wyndoze
via Facebook
I am buying Small Eagle bust coinage
Letters to the Editor: Sept. 3, 2019
12-S Lincoln
This is in regards to Mr. Vodney’s article in the Aug 6 issue of Numismatic News. I found the 12-S Lincoln back in my dad’s change back in ‘58 when I started collecting pennies
American Innovation 2018 $1 Reverse Proof Introductory Coin
On August 14, the United States Mint began taking orders for the American Innovation 2018 $1 Reverse Proof Introductory Coin. The United States Mint American Innovation $1 Coin Program is a multi-year series to honor innovation and innovators with $1 coins from each State, District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, U.S
1836 Reeded Edge Half Dollar
The later version of the 1836 Capped Bust Half Dollar. The standard lettering on the edge of the coin (FIFTY CENTS OR HALF A DOLLAR) was removed and replaced with a reeded edge. (Image courtesy of usacoinbook
Indians, Quarter Eagles, and Peace Dollars
What are the U.S. gold coins for which I should be most watchful regarding their possibility of being counterfeit?
Any $1 gold, Indian $2
US Bills Should Have Stories
by Bill Tuttle
When we first started minting our own coins and printing our dollars on paper, we basically followed the Europeans. Until it became too costly to produce, the US cent was about the same size as a British half penny. Even though the US silver coins weren’t “sterling,” (
Where’s the Bullion?
Just under a week into August and bullion sales are scarce. The 2019 one-ounce gold Buffalo has sold 1,000. The one-ounce gold Eagle has also sold 1,000
Community Voice Responses: Aug 27, 2019
From the August 2 Numismatic News E-Letter
Should the IRS be taxing Precious Metals IRA purchases?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
Yes, tax the IRA bullion at time of purchase then eliminate tax at time of sale like the Roth IRA.
Joe Gorak
Carlsbad, Calif
Letters to the Editor: August 27, 2019
Lowell W Quarter
I had a crazy couple of weeks, so I’m not sure where I received this coin. When things settled down I went through my change and found this!
That’s right! I found a Lowell W quarter! They are out there. Just keep your eyes open and keep hunting
Commemorating Our Nation’s Fifth President
The United States Mint has announced it will release the fifth medal in its Presidential Medal Series on August 8, with sales opening at 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time
How many tokens were struck by Dr. Feuchtwanger?
Were there any competing designs for the new cent in 1909? Who designed the wheat reverse?
Victor David Brenner was selected as the designer by President Theodore Roosevelt, without any competition, at least from outside the Mint. The wheat ears design was one of three submitted by Brenner, a point often overlooked in the publicity given the obverse. It’s ironic, considering the controversy about his name and initials on the cent, that if he designed both sides of a coin in 2005, his initials would have appeared on both sides without the slightest question
Silver Bullion Takes a Leap
The one-ounce silver Eagle sales marked an impressive gain from previous weeks, moving from 337,000 up to 1,224,000 ounces. Sticking with silver bullion, the Mint also released sales totals for the 2019 War in the Pacific Park 5-ounce bullion coin. Sales of that coin are listed at 57,000
Community Voice Responses: Aug 20, 2019
From the July 26 Numismatic News E-Letter
Do you support the legislation to authorize the production of 2021 Morgan & Peace silver dollars?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
Why not sell them as souvenirs of great collector coins? The mint, grading firms, modern coin dealers, tv show sellers will cash in big time. I’ll buy one example direct from the source if they make that possible
Collector Favorite Returns for 2019
The perfect gift for any occasion, the 2019 American Eagle One Ounce Silver Proof Coin is also a collector favorite, as it is the collector version of the Mint’s American Eagle Silver Bullion coin.
The obverse (heads) features Adolph A. Weinman’s full-length figure of Liberty in full stride, enveloped in folds of the flag, with her right hand extended and branches of laurel and oak in her left
Few 1920-S Eagles Survived the Great Gold Melt
With only 118 specimens certified by the major grading companies, the 1920-S gold eagle draws a pretty penny at auction. A specimen in MS-67 PCGS sold for $1.7 million in 2007
Reader’s Showcase: IA-Macksburg
by Peter Huntoon
I’ve had reason to look into the smallest Series of 1929 issuances from Iowa lately and found that the four smallest were Montezuma (charter 2961) at 125 notes total, Keokuk (14309) at 135, Malvern (8057) at 228 and Macksburg (6852) at 336. I then checked the National Currency Foundation census to see if any survived. I hit goose eggs as I worked through this short list—not a big surprise—until I got to Macksburg
Is it Illegal for Toll Booths to Reject US Currency?
I have dozens of rolls of lightly circulated 1960-D Small Date Lincoln cents, 1968-S to 1974-S Lincoln cents, Jefferson nickels with various die breaks around the rim, etc. Is there any collector value to these?
As with any other item there ‘may’ be someone who is interested in purchasing these coin rolls at a modest premium. Generally speaking, roll collecting isn’t as popular as it was in the past
Ultra-Grade Common Coins
by Douglas Nyholm
Recently a 1938-S Mercury Dime was sold at auction by Legend Rare Coins for an astronomical sum of $364,000! This is mind-boggling and I as well as many other collectors, are asking themselves ‘why’? Yes, it is the finest known, beautifully toned, and a very attractive classic design but who would pay such a sum? The ‘Coin Market’ in Numismatic News gives a value of $160 in MS65 FB. Recently I have followed several relatively common coins which have sold for hundreds of times what one would expect with many making headlines equal to classic rarities. Just to mention one other example is the 1958 MS67+ FBL Franklin Half which sold late last year for $129,000
Happy Birthday and Congratulations
It’s interesting once in awhile to step back from the usual movers and shakers in the Mint Stats and take a closer look at some of the lesser-talked-about products. Take for instance the three annual miscellaneous offers – the Birth Set, Happy Birthday Set and Congratulations Set. Every week, the numbers inch up from the previous week
Community Voice Responses: August 13, 2019
From the July 12 Numismatic News E-Letter
Has the inclusion of a 2019-W Lincoln Cent in select Mint products influenced your buying decision this year? Why or why not?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
I had set plans to purchase each of the Mint’s Proof, Mint and Silver sets prior to the inclusion of the W-minted cents. While I was not influenced personally, I did purchase an extra set of each for my younger brother and lifelong collecting partner
Letters to the Editor: August 13, 2019
Unexpected Find
I bought a 20th century set of gold coins in 1974 from a dealer in Florida. There were two 20’s, two 10’s, two 5’s and two 21/2’s. Later, I realized that one coin was dated 1881
The Mystery Behind ‘Magicians Coins’
I’m looking to invest in rather than to collect gold in some form. Are gold stocks or gold coins the better choice?
Are you looking for growth or a hedge against market calamities or hyperinflation? Gold mining stocks can be part of a retirement portfolio. Gold stocks offer appreciation, compounding, and a likely faster return
US Mint Issues New Native American Coin & Note Set
The United States Mint (Mint) will open sales for the 2019 Native American $1 Coin & Currency Set (product code 19NR) on July 24 at noon EDT.
This unique set pairs one enhanced uncirculated 2019 Native American $1 Coin produced by the United States Mint at Philadelphia and one $1 Series 2017 note produced by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing.
The reverse (tails) of the 2019 Native American $1 Coin depicts Mary Golda Ross writing calculations
Is the ‘Youth Approach’ the Only Answer?
by Michael S. Turrini
Recently, I had an exchange with a distinguished and recognized national philatelist and ‘stamp booster’. We were conversing about the exemplary efforts annually committed by dedicated volunteers at the internationally known and well-attended WESTPEX, in Burlingame, California, at the end of each April
Active Interest Media Acquires Four F+W Groups Including Numismatics
Boulder, CO: North America’s leading participant media company today announced the acquisition of four storied groups of enthusiast brands from F+W Media. “The addition of Writer’s Digest, Popular Woodworking, Horticulture, and the Collectibles Group significantly extends our footprint in passionate markets that fit Active Interest Media’s vision for future growth,” said President & CEO Andrew Clurman. “These groups bring a combined publishing history of more than 300 years and audiences that demonstrate incredible loyalty through their attendance at events, participation in online conversations, and high rates of membership and subscription renewal
Mint Statistics: Clever Marketing Boosts American Legion Silver Dollars Sales
All 10,000 of the mintage limit of the American Legion 100th Anniversary 2019 Proof Silver Dollar and Medal sets sold out. With a retail price of $99.95, it’s a clever way for the Mint to move an additional 10,000 units of the proof silver dollar which has sold 29,546
Community Voice Responses: August 6, 2019
From the July 12 Numismatic News E-Letter
What tips/advice do you have for new collectors looking to find error coins?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
Read, read, and read some more, books that is. Online info is also a good source if from from a reliable expert
Letters to the Editor: August 6, 2019
June 25 Viewpoint
I thorougly enjoyed reading Dominic Cicio’s realistic and nostaligic Viewpoint in the June 25 issue of Numismatic News. He is spot-on regarding the pleasure derived by a find vs. a purchase
Pride of Two Nations Launch Event a Success
The United States Mint’s communications department shared some photos this week from the Pride of Two Nations launch event held on July 3. Mint Director David Ryder welcomed Royal Canadian Mint CEO Marie Lamay to the Mint’s Philadelphia facility to launch the 2019 Pride of Two Nations Limited Edition Two-Coin Set.
The set commemorates the nationhood of both countries with coins that capture their rich history, pride, and their close relationship as neighbors and friends
How rare are the 1981 SBA dollars?
What is the weight of the thick copper Russian ruble of 1771 that you mentioned some time ago in this column?
The 1771-dated Sestroretsk novedel rouble, struck in 1845, weighs more than 4 pounds. It is 77.6 mm in diameter, 26 mm thick and round, in contrast to the rectangular plates used by Sweden
Mint Statistics: Pride of Two Nations Charges Ahead
Released on July 3, the Pride of Two Nations 2019 Limited Edition Two-Coin Set has come and gone. The product limit was listed at 100,000 and this week’s sales report from the Mint shows 95,308 sold. Checking the product page today, the product has been listed as currently unavailable
Community Voice Responses: July 30, 2019
From the July 5 Numismatic News E-Letter
What do you find most interesting about the SS Central America shipwreck finds?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
I find most interesting are the San Francisco Mint Reserves, particularly the gold coins like that Double Eagle 1857-S with 970,000 minted, how many nice pieces will be returned to the collector market and how it will affect prices. Not that I can afford one mind you
Pride of Two Nations 2019 Limited Edition Two-Coin Set
The United States Mint announced its newest release, Pride of Two Nations 2019 Limited Edition Two-Coin Set on July 3.
This beautifully rendered and unique special set is the first-ever joint coin set between the United States Mint and Royal Canadian Mint. It commemorates both nations with coins that capture their rich history, pride, and close relationship as neighbors and partners
Does King Edward VIII Appear on Any Canadian Notes?
Please explain the difference between an essai, a piefort, and a proba.
An essai, or essay, is a trial strike of a design, made to test the dies. It may be in a different metal and a different thickness than the normal coin and may also be considered to be a proof coin or a pattern
Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Apollo 11 with a Special $50 Bill
The Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) has announced a new 2019 Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Currency Set to commemorate the moon landing. The set features a Series 2013 $50 note with a serial number beginning with “1969” and an engraved representation of the famous “Buzz Aldrin on the Moon” photograph taken July 20, 1969. The reflection in Aldrin’s visor—which includes Neil Armstrong, the United States flag, and the lunar lander—is embossed
Community Voice Responses: July 23, 2019
From the June 28 Numismatic News E-Letter
What is the best deal you’ve gotten when buying a coin for your collection? Tell us your story.
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
The best deal I ever got was sort of by accident
Mint Statistics: Will Apollo 11 Coins Take Off Again Soon?
With the anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon landing approaching, if you are reading this issue when it is sent, we thought it would be worthwhile to take a look at how the Apollo 11 coins are selling.
Between the proof and uncirculated options, the gold $5 is about 80 percent sold. About 10,000 remain between the two
The 1893 Isabella Quarter is in a Class of Its Own
Shown here, a fantastic example of an 1893 Isabella quarter in MS-67 PCGS condition. The coin is being offered at the July 11-14 Summer Fun US Coins Signature Auction in Orlando by Heritage Auctions. (Image courtesy of Heritage Auctions)
Coins that stand out or are unusual are always interesting and that is true of the Isabella quarter as the Isabella quarter ranks as the only commemorative quarter in U
Coins Being ‘Cracked Out’ of Third Party Slabs
How long would a cancelled note (regardless of technique) remain in Treasury hands before being eventually destroyed, if that was in fact the case?
I didn’t find anything specific to cancelled US bank notes, but Howard M. Berlin’s book The Coins and Banknotes of Palestine Under the British Mandate, 1927-1947 gives some insight into the subject through Palestinian Mandate currency.
According to Berlin, “Even as late as 1974 bank notes of the Palestinian Currency Board were redeemed and the Crown Agents in London still await any bank notes that may be redeemed
Collecting is in the Thrill of the Hunt
By Daryl Conley
I started collecting when I was about 10 or 12, so about 45 years ago. I went through anyone’s pocket change that would let me do so. I still check all my pocket change, along with my wife’s
Mint Statistics: Not Much Movement on Gold or Silver Bullion Sales
Gold bullion remained the same as last week, with total ounces at 4,000 and total units 8,500. With the price of gold eclipsing $1,400, it will be interesting to see how long these numbers go unchanged. Silver, on the other hand, added 305,000 and will end June at 855,000
Community Voice Responses: July 16, 2019
From the June 21 Numismatic News E-Letter
Would you buy a coin that has not been authenticated?
If so, when? If not, why?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
For the most part, yes. But if there are any questions about high value or key date coinage, it’s an extra bird in the hand so to speak
Letters to the Editor: July 16,2019
1986 ASE Coin Clinic Question
I noticed that Mercanti mentions the Denver Mint as a contributor in the production of the 1986 Bullion Strike ASE in his books on the subject. Does anyone know if the Denver Mint saved one? It would seem strange if they didn’t. There are no availabe records of how many were minted at Denver, either
War in the Pacific Three-Coin Set Available
The United States Mint announced that a three-coin set honoring the War in the Pacific National Historical Park is now available. Orders began to be accepted on June 18. This set represents the third of five sites to be commemorated in 2019 as part of the America the Beautiful Quarter Program
Did The 1933 Gold Eagle Circulate?
Image courtesy of usacoinbook.com
The 1933 Indian Head gold eagle is probably the best coin of the United States, which could be called a poor man’s 1933 gold coin. Considering the 1933 gold eagle currently lists for $600,000 in MS-65 it is hard to imagine the word “poor” in any sentence involving the 1933 but since the only other gold coin of 1933 (the famous Saint-Gaudens double eagle of 1933) which once sold for $7
Alaska Rural Rehabilitation Corporation tokens
Can sharpness of color of an Uncirculated coin impact the Mint State grade (between 60 and 70) assigned to it?
The sharpness of color is particularly important to prooflike coins, but the sharpness of color or the severity of toning can impact the grade of any coin. This needs to be determined on a case-to-case basis.
Why were Alaska Rural Rehabilitation Corporation tokens issued? Weren’t US coins legal tender in Alaska at the time?
The tokens of which you speak were issued during the 1930s through the US Federal Emergency Relief Administration
Coinage System Needs Major Changes
by Tom Miller
Should Kennedy half dollars still be minted? Well, the whole system of coinage needs re-configuration.
Consider this; One hundred years ago one could buy a draft beer in a bar for five cents, and a penny bag of candy was enough to satisfy a child’s sugar craving. One could buy a complete steak dinner for two in New York City in 1899 for a quarter
Mint Statistics: Eagle Soaring Lower Than Usual
New to Mint Statistics this week is the 2019-W Uncirculated American Gold Eagle. The Mint launched sales for this coin on Thursday, June 13. With just four days of sales recorded on this week’s report, the total of 1,467 represents one of the slower starts in many years
Community Voice Responses: July 9, 2019
From the June 7 Numismatic News E-Letter
Should the U.S. Mint continue producing the uncirculated Kennedy half dollars or is it time for something new?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers
Letters to the Editor: July 9, 2019
2019 Floating Head Penny
I am writing to you about the 2019 Floating Head Penny from your June 4, 2019 issue of Numismatic News.
Would you answer my question regarding the article? My question is, is the head larger than the 2018 pennies?
I am concerned about the coin collectors and your subscribers. You do not apply answers that people ask you
$370,000 Buys 1792 Silver Half Disme
This history of the production of the 1792 half disme is one of the most important events in the birth of our nation’s coinage. (Image courtesy of Ira & Larry Goldberg Auctioneers)
At the conclusion of bidding at Ira & Larry Goldberg Auctioneers’ Pre-Long Beach Auction on June 2, a PCGS graded MS-64 half disme, which was estimated to sell $350,000 sold for $370,000.
Only 1,500 of these coins were struck and it is estimated that less than 200 examples survived
Liberty’s Torch Shines On
The United States Mint released the gorgeous 2019 American Eagle One Ounce Gold Uncirculated Coin – struck in 22-karat gold – on June 13 at 12pm Eastern Time.
This coin is a collector version of the Mint’s American Eagle Gold Bullion Coin. Struck at the United States Mint at West Point, the obverse (heads) features a version of Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ full-length figure of Liberty with flowing hair, holding a torch in her right hand and an olive branch in her left
1874-S Seated Liberty Dime
With a metal composition of 90% silver and 10% copper, the 1874-S Seated Libertydime, designed by Christian Gobrecht, can be purchased for a reasonable price.(Image courtesy of usacoinbook.com)
There are many great coins available at what are really discount prices
Which toned silver coins bring the highest prices?
Which toned silver coins tend to bring the highest prices?
Since eye appeal is the main factor, there is no “one size fits all” formula for valuing toned coins. In general a coin exhibiting naturally occurring waves of neon hues on the obverse tend to be the most popular. I can’t be more specific than that
BEP Celebrates 50th Anniversary of the Moon Landing with the 2019 $2 Rocketship
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) has announced a new product, the 2019 $2 Rocketship.
$2 bills have the fewest produced annually. In both 2014 and 2014, just 32,000,000 were produced each year, with 179,200,000 in 2016 and none in 2017
Why is it a Penny When it’s not a Cent?
by Bill Tuttle
Since the beginning of its creation, the US cent has been mislabeled a penny (plural = “pennies”).
Why?
This author’s theory is because our roots as a country are British, which use the “Pound Sterling” counting system (240 Pence [“proper” plural of Penny] = 1 Pound). While we, the Thirteen Colonies, were “controlled” by the British, the Pound Sterling system was in use
Community Voice Responses: July 2, 2019
From the June 7 Numismatic News E-Letter
What rare coins will be popular in 100 years?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
The Liberty of Thought (aka Mercury) Silver Dime will always be a collector’s item as well as Walking Liberty Half Dollars. And any of the nineteenth century coins will demand collector interest, especially Bust type
Mint Statistics: Kennedy Halves – What is their Future?
An interesting Letter to the Editor came in this week in which the reader was questioning the need to continue producing the Kennedy Half dollars for collectors, which got us looking at the Mint sales of those a bit closer. Released on May 1 this year, sales of both the two-roll sets and 200-coin bags increased by about 500 units each since last week. Looking at the three-year sales numbers, sales do seem to be declining each year
Coin Finds: Luck at the Coinstar Machine
Recently I was lucky to have some luck at the Coinstar machine at the Acme. One trip yielded a 1946 Mercury Dime and a second trip a 1919 Lincoln, both in good condition.
Not bad for a simple stroll to the Coinstar machine
48th ATB Design Available in 5 Ounce Silver Uncirculated
The United States Mint is offering a 99.9 Percent Silver War in the Pacific Historical Park Uncirculated Five Ounce Coin. First available at twelve o’clock noon Eastern Time on June 6, a mintage of 20,000 is being offered
1878 $3 Gold
There are some coins which are hard to describe, or understand, and the 1878 $3 gold piece is one of those coins. There may be theories, but facts explaining exactly why the 1878 $3 is so available are hard to determine.
Shown here, an 1878 Three Dollar Doubled Die Reverse, graded MS-64 by PCGS
Disney Dollars and other Souvenir Scrip
Aren’t Disney dollars and other currencies offered by entertainment venues as an alternate to cash a form of seignorage by which the issuer benefits?
Souvenir scrip can be purchased at a theme or entertainment park at face value. The scrip can later be redeemed by spending it at that venue. This is a novel way of creating seignorage for the issuer since many people will simply keep the scrip as a souvenir rather than spend it
The State of Coin Collecting
by Dominic Cicio
Just glanced at the May 14 issue of Numismatic News and noticed the R.W. Barker letter about the pending liquidation of F&W Media
Mint Statistics: 2019 Sets Continue To Be Collectors’ Choice
2019 sets continue to be where collectors are focused. Another 10,743 of the 2019 uncirculated 20-coin set sold since we last reported, bringing the overall total to 200,681. Proof sets are also a popular choice
Community Voice Responses: June 25, 2019
From the May 31 Numismatic News E-Letter
Do you think a numismatic sales slump will hit this summer? Why or why not?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
While the rarest coins in the highest MS/PR grades should not be affected, as there is a lot of money sloshing around among the nouveau riche [think: Silicon Valley IPO billionaires], the long-term prospects for the rest of the market are negative, simply because of the supply/demand curve. Have you walked around a coin show lately? If so, what percentage of those in attendance were Millennials? Or even below age 50? Simply put, the hobby that the Baby Boom generation embraced is not being picked up by our younger generations in the numbers required to balance the supply and demand
Letters to the Editor: June 25, 2019
2019 AMP “W” Quarters
Can anyone answer if the quarters at this event were “seeded” with 2019 AMP “W” quarters? Per the article in the May 28, 2019 issue of NN, it says there were more than 1,000 students and 200 coin enthusiasts. Someone may know that answer. Usually a bank is named in the article who was in charge of releasing the quarters, but none was listed
War in the Pacific Quarter Bags & Rolls Available
100-coin bags are available with the (P), (D) and (S) mint marks. 2-roll sets come with (P) and (D) mint marks. 40-coin rolls come with the (S) mint mark
Mint Statistics: Will the 2019 Uncirculated Set Surpass 2018 Sales?
Modest increases were noted in bullion this week, after a jump of 566,000 last week in one ounce silver. The May total stands at 866,000, the second lowest this year, just ahead of the 850,000 sold in March. Gold is also the lowest month in 2019, with just 8,500 total coins sold
Community Voice Responses: June 18, 2019
From the May 24 Numismatic News E-Letter
Which coin would you like to see the U.S Mint offer a new restrike of?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
I would like to see a restrike of the Liberty Cap cent
A favorite of many collectors and gift givers
2019-W Uncirculated American Silver Eagle – obverse, presentation case and reverse.
For those of you not already a member of the United States Mint’s American Eagle Silver Ounce Uncirculated Coin Enrollment program, May 29 is the day the Mint will have this product available for sale.
Known as the world’s only one ounce silver bullion coin with a weight, content and purity guaranteed by the United States government, the America Silver Eagle has a face value of one dollar and contains one troy ounce of 99
1804 Quarter
The year 1804 is just magic when it comes to coins. The main reason is the famous 1804 dollar which, of course, was not even produced in 1804 but rather a few decades later. That said, everyone remembers 1804 simply because of the dollar
Does an ANA membership have to be sponsored?
I hate to make it sound crass, but the only requirement for membership in the American Numismatic Association appears to be paying dues. Is it true that at one time your membership had to be sponsored?
I don’t know when it changed, but when I joined the ANA about 40 years ago you needed a member to sponsor you. A friend recently told me of his potential sponsor asking him some questions to ensure he was sufficiently knowledgeable prior to being sponsored
An open letter in response to the U.S. Mint
by Michael S. Turrini
Dear Mr. Landry of the U
Mint Statistics: Silver Bullion makes a small leap
After a small drought in silver bullion sales, a moderate increase from last week has silver bullion one ounce Eagles at 726,000, up from last week’s total of 160,000. Bullion gold Buffalos increased year to date by another 3,000, while gold American Eagle one ounce bullion coins grew by 2,000. The tenth ounce gold American Eagle increased by 5,000 since last week, now at 140,000
Community Voice Responses: (June 11, 2019)
From the May 17 Numismatic News E-Letter
What is the next coin show you plan to attend and how far will you travel for a coin show?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
I attended last year’s ANA in Philly. It was only a one and a half hour drive for me
Letters to the Editor: June 11, 2019
Ads are useful
In response to comments on the April 02 issue of Numismatic News. Personally, I enjoy looking over the advertisements. Many coin dealers offer their inventories and this shows a good gauge of what individual coins are going for and what is in demand
American Legion Proof Silver Dollar and Medal Set
The American Legion 100th Anniversary Proof Silver Dollar included in this set is also available individually for $59.95.
On May 20, the United States Mint began offering a commemorative American Legion 100th Anniversary 2019 Proof Silver Dollar and Medal Set
Item of the Week: 1870 Two-Cent Piece
The 1870 two-cent piece is a slightly better date. It is not the key two-cent piece business strike as that honor falls to the 1872 while the proof only 1873 remains the toughest date needed to fill a collection. That said, the 1870 tells a story about the times and about the denomination so it’s a date worth knowing and having in a collection
Viewpoint: Why coin shows are important
by Bruce Frohman
The most important role of a show for a coin club is to bring new hobbyists in. When the Livermore Valley Coin Club has its annual show, we widely advertise it throughout the community. (Our next show is March 1, 2020)
Mint Statistics: Sales of 2019 Proof Sets Tapering Off
After three strong weeks of sales, the Mint’s annual proof sets have begun to slow down just a bit. The silver proof set came out strong and showed week over week increases of 16,856 and 21,730 the first two weeks and this week has grown by another 7,866. The clad version added another 4,065, not such a dramatic drop from the 5,520 increase seen the prior week
Community Voice Responses (June 4, 2019)
From the April 26 Numismatic News E-Letter
Following the conclusion of the Central States Numismatic Convention in Chicago, we’d like to know what you think the most important role of coin shows is within the hobby?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
Oh boy is it ever important to go to a coin show, look at the items up close, and to NOT buy them based on a claim or a picture shown on the internet!
Tom Demaree
Fridley, Minn.
The Major Shows across the Country are useful to those who can afford to travel to them, and rub elbows with true professionals within Numismatics
Letters to the Editor: June 4, 2019
Crystal ball fails
In 1975 the San Francisco Mint started issuing the Bicentennial 1976 Proof Sets. Coins Magazine predicted the 1975-S Proof Cent would become scarce and rare because none would be issued except in the proof sets.
That scarceness did not materialize
2019 Uncirculated Sets on Sale May 14
On May 14, the United States Mint began taking orders for their 2019 Uncirculated Coin Set. Each set contains two folders of 10 coins each, one from the United States Mint at Philadelphia and the other from the United States Mint at Denver, totaling twenty coins.
2019 20-coin uncirculated sets went on sale May 14
The 2019 edition of the United States Mint Uncirculated Coin Set includes the following coins:
The five 2019 quarters in the America the Beautiful Quarters® Program, including Lowell National Historical Park in Massachusetts, American Memorial Park in the Northern Mariana Islands, War in the Pacific National Historical Park in Guam, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park in Texas and Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness in Idaho
1938-D Jefferson Nickels: Low mintage at a good price
The 1938-D Jefferson nickel in MS65 if valued at $15.00, while in 65FS the value jumps to $95.00
Can an auctioneer avoid having their lots swiped?
If I employed auction sniping software wouldn’t this result in my paying a very high price for a coin that might not have bid as high otherwise?
Programmed bidding acting as your auction representative will result in higher prices realized when more than one bidder is using this software. In such a case you have multiple sniping bidders trying to outbid each other using automation. When only one bidder sets a high maximum bid and no-one else is willing to challenge the automated counterbids the price for which a coin might sell could be much lower than if two competing bidders are in the same room
Viewpoint: A letter to the Token Medal Society
by Dennis Tucker
Dear Bill,
I’ve got something to vent about.
Your article in the January/February 2019 issue of the Token and Medal Society’s TAMS Journal (“Merchant Token Ephemera From Wiley, Kansas”) makes me feel like I’ve been asleep for the past 15 years as a writer and researcher.
Thanks a lot! Just when I was starting to feel like I knew something about numismatics
Mint Statistics: Is the Bonus 2019 Lincoln Penny Helping Annual Proof Set Sales?
The Mint’s annual silver proof set continues to climb, adding another 21,730 to its total. The clad proof set, the less-expensive of the annual sets, grew by 5,520. Could the bonus 2019 Lincoln penny with a reverse proof finish bearing the “W” mint mark be helping sales? Time will tell
Letters to the Editor (May 28, 2019)
Signature on $1.00 note
In the “Letters” section of the April 30 issue of Numismatic News entitled “Trio of Mnuchin signature,” the 2017 series does not have the Secretary of Treasury signature. I have two uncut 50 $1
The Bank of England Gold Sale Fiasco
This month marks the 20th anniversary of the decision by former British Chancellor of the Exchequer Gordon Brown to sell the majority of the British government’s gold reserves, a process that took two years.
At the end of May 1999, the pound was worth about $1.61 US
Overdates and mintages
Shown is an 1823 10C Large Es is NGC graded MS66 from the Joseph C. Thomas Collection. (Image courtesy of Heritage Auctions
Mint Statistics: Silver Proof Sets Continue to Climb
A flagship product of the United States Mint, the annual silver proof set came out strong, selling 191,670 in just the first five days. Since we reported that number last week, the total has grown to 208,526, adding 16,856. The 2018 silver proof set currently sits at 320,215
Community Voice Responses (May 21, 2019)
From the April 26 Numismatic News E-Letter
What do you think about the Great American Coin Hunt going on this week?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers.
I think this is great. Thanks to those who participated
Exhibit Award Winners Announced for 2019 National Money Show
Twenty exhibitors displayed 27 impressive competitive exhibits at the 2019 National Money Show, held March 28-30 in Pittsburgh. The American Numismatic Association recognized each exhibit winner on March 30 during the Exhibit Awards Presentation & Reception, along with two noncompetitive exhibitors who also displayed material.
Michael Kodysz received the Steven J
1889 Three-Cent piece
An 1889 nickel three-cent piece can range in price from $90 to $500, depending on condition, according to U.S. Coin Digest
Will gold coins stored in envelopes tone?
Will gold coins stored in envelopes containing some sulfur tone in time?
Gold is an inert metal that doesn’t rust or tarnish when exposed to air or water. Since most gold coins struck for circulation contain other metals, these metals may react to the environment if they are near the surface of the coin.
Will gold bullion coins such as the Gold American Eagle tone if they are stored in paper or cardboard holders that contain sulfur?
Gold bullion coins including the GAE, Canadian Maple Leaf, Austrian Philharmonic and others are typically 0
Viewpoint: Nous sommes avec vous (we stand with you)
By Tom Robbins
The beautiful Notre Dame.
In the past, some of our commemoratives benefitted restoration projects such as the Statue of Liberty coins and the Captitol coins. As I sit here watching the Notre Dame burn, an idea came to my mind
Mint Statistics: 2019 Proof Sets on the Rise
This week, the Mint released the American Memorial Park 3-coin set, which is reporting sales of 10,585 after less than a week of sales. It is 1,047 behind the last America the Beautiful installment, Lowell National Park, which is at 11,632. For the most part, it seems that sales of these 3-coin sets have been declining since the launch of the program
Community Voice Responses (May 14, 2019)
One method of attracting new collectors would be to get some magazines in the magazine racks at book stores and supermarkets. I see magazines for everything from cars, video games, knitting, and movies to hunting. Nothing up there to even show that coin collecting is a possibility
Letters to the Editor (May 14, 2019)
Catalog Number
I am cataloging my worldwide coin collection and “stuck” in Portuguese India. My 2008 Standard Catalog of World Coins, 35th Edition 1901 – 2000 has no listing for the coins I have. All three coins are bronze 10 Centavos dated 1958, 1959, and 1961 and are roughly the size of a US Cent
2019 Silver Proof Sets Include a Bonus This Year
Collectors of the United States Mint’s annual coin sets will be receiving a bonus with this year’s set. Each 2019 United States Mint Silver Proof Set® will include a separately packaged reverse proof 2019 Lincoln penny with the ‘W’ mint mark of the West Point Mint.
Bearing the “S” mint mark of the San Francisco Mint, this 2019 edition Silver Proof Set includes ten proof coins encased in two clear plastic lenses
1955 Franklin Half Dollar
(Image courtesy of Heritage Auctions.)
It is hard to be certain whether the 1955 Franklin half dollar should be basically where it is in price or whether it should be significantly better as there are so many factors to be considered and in some cases they are hard to judge.
It started with a very unusual year
Morgan Dollars Headline Heritage Platinum Night at Central States
A total of 58 lots will be offered in “The Perfection Collection of DMPL/Prooflike Morgan Dollars” during Heritage Auctions’ Platinum Night on April 25 at 6 p.m. at the Central States Numismatic Society Show in Schaumburg, Illinois
Do Challenge coins use specific metals?
Modern art medals occasionally use non-traditional compositions including rocks, glass, and even organic materials. Is there a specific metal or metals from which Challenge Coins are expected to be produced?
There are no specific ‘rules’ dictating the designs or composition a Challenge Coin must follow. Since Challenge Coins are privately issued they have already been made using gold, silver, brass, nickel, iron, copper and porcelain
Viewpoint: Enjoy your numismatic journey
By Bill Tuttle
I received the latest issue of Numismatic News (April 16, 2019) today and started with “Letters” on page 8. I’m directing this letter to the Boy Scout, Carter Sisam, who is in pursuit of furthering his new hobby coin collecting. You can find old coins just about every where you look
March coin production continues to slide
We’ve rounded up the latest U.S. Mint production totals for circulating coins and are noticing some dramatic changes compared to the first two months of 2019
Mint Statistics: American Legion Coin Sales Soft
I had the opportunity this week to attend an orientation meeting for the Badger Boys State Program, which is hosted by the American Legion. Afterwards, I chatted briefly with a few of the members who were there and asked for their thoughts on the new 100th Anniversary commemorative coins. I was surprised that none had heard of them
Community Voice Responses (May 7, 2019)
From the April 12 Numismatic News E-Newsletter
What do you think about the U.S. Mint offering W- Mint Marked Quarters?
Here are some answers sent in from our E-Newsletter readers
Letters to the Editor (May 07, 2019)
Moon Landing set thanks
Thank you for taking a look at the Moon Landing Coin & Stamp Commemoratives set I sent you. I figure there must be somebody out there thatknows something about these sets. I enjoy reading your magazine very much
1879 Shield nickel set low mintage trend
An assortment of circumstances at the time of its release explain why proof 1879 Shield nickels are today much cheaper than circulated examples. (Images courtesy of www.usacoinbook
How does the Rare Coin Values Index work?
(Image courtesy www.us-coin-values-advisor.com/rare-coin-values-index
Viewpoint: Low serial note searching for 30+ years
By Chad L. Magee, Ph.D
Mint Statistics: Fluctuations unpredictable like the weather
Last week, we were happy to say that spring had finally sprung at our office in Stevens Point. Well, score one for Mother Nature, as today we are under a winter weather advisory and expecting several inches of heavy snow. These sudden fluctuations in spring weather are similar to what we have been seeing in some of the sales at the U
Franklin has buck teeth on ‘Bugs Bunny’ half
(Image courtesy of www.pcgs.com)
What is meant by a “Bugs Bunny” half dollar?
“Bugs Bunny” is a nickname or slang term for a die clash that appears across Benjamin Franklin’s mouth on the half dollars, giving him the appearance of having buck teeth
Mint Statistics: Spring releases moving at a slow pace
Spring has finally sprung at the Numismatic News office in Stevens Point, Wis. However, Mint sales numbers are not springing.
American Legion coins are moving at a relatively slow pace, with the $5 coin sale increasing just 147 from last week
Future seems certain for 1808 gold half eagle
Struck for just one year in relatively small quantity, the 1808 gold half eagle with John Reich’s new Turban Head design is a key type coin likely to only continue rising in price. (Images courtesy of www.usacoinbook
No museum exclusively for counterfeits
Is there a museum of counterfeit coins?
There are many museums in which counterfeit coins reside, some known to be fakes while others deceive the curators. I am aware of collectors who specialize in either contemporary or modern counterfeits, but I am not aware of a museum that displays counterfeit coins exclusively on purpose.
Is there a way to determine if my coin, as well as the third-party certification service slab in which it is housed, are genuine without cracking the coin out for re-examination?
There are some diagnostics through which fake coin slabs might be detected, but the counterfeiters are good at their trade
Viewpoint: Hobby offers educational experiences
A seemingly rare 1943-P “copper” Lincoln cent disappointingly turned out to be a counterfeit.
by Sam Lukes
The March 19 issue of Numismatic News featured “Another rare 1943 ‘copper’ cent slabbed,” which followed on the heels of a Feb. 5 article in reference to the legendary Don Lutes Jr
Mint Statistics: Stronger first-quarter bullion sales for 2019 vs. 2018
With the first quarter drawing to a close, we thought it would be interesting to take a look at sales in the first quarter to 2019 as compared to the same time period in 2018. The first thing to stand out is the underperformance of the 2019 gold proof as compared with 2019.
Overall, total sales of all options offered are down about 3,500 coins, or 26%
Coinage legislation left out the word “The”
(Image courtesy www.usacoinbook.com)
Why is “The” missing from the inscription “United States of America” on our coins?
Section 10 of the Mint Act of April 2, 1792, says, “…with this inscription, ‘UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,’…” Once this tradition was established, nobody saw any need to change it
Mint Statistics: American Legion commemorative coins debut
First-day sales of the 2019 American Legion commemorative coins totaled 39,671, according to U.S. Mint spokesman Michael White
1921 SLQ tougher to find in lower grades
Although its mintage was less than two million, other factors played a greater part in why the 1921 Standing Liberty quarter is tougher than expected. (Images courtesy www.usacoinbook
Isabella quarters not meant to circulate
1893 Isabella commemorative quarter (Image courtesy www.ngccoin.com)
Unsold Columbus half dollars were released into circulation What about the Isabella quarters?
The Isabella quarters were sold to collectors and the public but were not released into circulation
Viewpoint: 70-point grading scale serves hobby well
By R. Vodney
I hope the numismatic community never adopts a 100-point grading system.
The only supportive argument that has ever been raised is that we all used the 100-point system when we were kids in school, therefore everyone will logically endorse it
Mint Statistics: Are gold Eagle proofs flying away?
This week, the U.S. Mint released sales figures for the 2019 proof gold, which we’ve now added below, bumping 2016 from the list
State of Louisiana seized New Orleans Mint
(Image courtesy us-mint.info/New-Orleans-Mint.html)
I know that the New Orleans Mint struck for both the federal and Confederate governments, but wasn’t there a third entity?
The third was the State of Louisiana, which seized the New Orleans Mint on Feb
Bullion still not available from U.S. Mint
As reported last week, silver bullion is still not available from the U.S. Mint
Expensive prices for once-unwanted 1876-CC 20 cents
The 20-cent denomination introduced in 1875 was unpopular with the public from the start. Today, the 1876-CC Seated Liberty is both tough and rare. (Images courtesy www
Do coin dog tags exist?
When did the U.S. military begin issuing dog tags?
War Department General Order 204 dated Dec
Viewpoint: Florida United Numismatists show still fun
By Glen D. McClary
This year’s FUN show was again a very enjoyable experience. I arrived early on Friday and was surprised at the venue being so close to my usual parking area
Mint Statistics: Mint halts sales of silver Eagles
The big news this week from the U.S Mint is a temporary sellout of 2018 and 2019 silver bullion Eagles due to market fluctuations. Sales over the past week trended way up from the previous week, causing inventory to run out
No additional strikes for rare varieties
Is there any chance that the Mint would deliberately strike additional examples of some rare, new variety after it appears? I see that they have duplicated some of the hubbing varieties.
This was one of numerous rumors that floated about and were quoted widely on the Internet and some of the online services. The duplication referred to occurred only under test conditions by the Mint and was done only to determine exactly how a given variety occurred so that corrective measures could be taken to prevent it from recurring
Mint Statistics: Apollo 11 half dollars remain popular
As of the Feb. 19 Sales and Production Report published by the U.S
How fast will U.S. dollar sink?
(Image courtesy www.forexlive.com)
According to current U
Weak strike or worn die?
How can I tell if my Uncirculated coin lacks detail because of it being a weak strike rather than being made from a worn die?
A weakly struck coin often displays a lack of detail in specific areas of the coin design, while a coin struck from a worn die typically shows mushy or fuzzy detail. A worn die may also begin to disintegrate, with raised lines appearing on the coin where the die has cracked.
Can you explain “album slide marks?”
Album slide marks and cabinet friction have one thing in common: the marks appearing on a coin occurred because of the method of storage rather than due to wear
Viewpoint: Saying Farewell, but not goodbye
A special “TIME for Retirement” mock magazine cover created to mark David C. Harper’s long-time career with Krause Publications, a division of F+W Media, Inc.
In our Feb
Mint Statistics: Lowell National Park starts out strong
The Lowell National Park 2019 uncirculated five-ounce silver coin, part of the America the Beautiful Quarters® program, is off to a strong start. This week, the Mint is reporting sales of 12,734 of the total 20,000 being minted. It will be interesting to see if this trend continues in the coming weeks and leads to an early sellout
1860-S quarter value continues to climb
Its rich history as a relic of the Gold Rush, combined with its lower mintage, make the 1860-S Seated Liberty quarter both relatively affordable and a coin that is poised to keep rising in price.
Many collectors want a rare date at a bargain price. I happen to be among that group, but I am not very impressed when I read what others suggest are sleepers
‘Galvanizing’ named after Luigi Galvani
Luigi Galvani (Image courtesy https://commons.wikimedia.org/ wiki/File:Luigi_Galvani,_oil-painting)
Is electroplating also known as galvanizing?
Today galvanizing only applies to a plating in zinc, but the process and its name originate from its inventor Italian physician Luigi Galvani in 1780
Viewpoint: Tell judge fakes damage collectors
By Beth Deisher
By mid-February, U.S. District Court Judge Robert B
Time to join ranks of loyal readers
David C. Harper
I have retired. After nearly 41 years working at the Numismatic News office, my chair is now vacant
Mint Statistics: Collectors continue Apollo 11 buying trend
Apollo 11 commemoratives still remain available for collectors, with sales inching toward the maximum mintages. The half dollar set is the closest to sellout, with 84,349 of the total 100,000 already sold. The 5-ounce silver isn’t far behind at 63,598 of the total 100,000 available there
Dime-stock planchet use for quarter
What can you tell me about a 1970-D quarter on a thin planchet?
You have one of an estimated 20,000 that were struck at Denver on dime-stock planchets. These were planchets that were accidentally punched from dime thickness strip to quarter diameter at San Francisco and shipped to Denver to be struck. There are similar quarter stock dimes, but only a very few of those escaped the Mint
Delayed shipping probably unnecessary
Apollo 11 50th Anniversary 2019 Proof Half Dollar Set
“I want my coins yesterday” is the informal slogan of collectors who order new issues from the Mint.
How else can you get them slabbed as first strikes? How else can you flip them for a profit on the secondary market? How else can you brag to other members of the coin club that you received them first?
Word has just come that the U.S
Mint Statistics: Apollo coins touch down in this report
A box for the Apollo 11 commemorative coins has been added to the report below to begin the annual redesign process. Old coins go off sale. New coins are added
Keep your eye on 1894 Indian Head cent
While supplies of the 1894 Indian Head cent are decent, they are a long way from being unlimited, which may make this better date a sleeper. (Image courtesy www.usacoinbook
‘Rocket’ removes residue from blanks
Coinage blanks go through several processes that include lubricants. How are these oils, etc., removed so the coins don’t turn out to be greasy to the touch?
Coin blanks are put through what has been nicknamed “rocket” where hot air is blasted to remove oils and water residue
Viewpoint: Gold prizes still go to CSNS exhibitors
By Mitch Ernst
In P.D. James’ 2011 mystery Death Comes to Pemberley, Jane Austen’s famed character Elizabeth Bennet, now Mrs
So many versions cause a headache
The 2018-S Pictured Rocks quarter proof. (Image courtesy www.usacoinbook
Mint Statistics: Innovation dollar coin has a good week
American Innovation dollars showed a renewed spark of life by adding 18,526 to the running total. It now stands at 142,494. This number will continue growing until all collectors with the 2018 proof set have ordered the proof coin that was not included in it
Many factors influenced 1850 silver dollar supply
A small mintage, lack of contemporary interest, the Gold Rush, threat of melting, and exportation overseas are factors that led to the limited supply of 1850 Seated Liberty dollars available today.
The 1850 Seated Liberty dollar is definitely a better date, which in the case of this series says a great deal. There are virtually no Seated Liberty dollars that can be called available or common
Medal maker not easily determined
(Image courtesy whitehousegiftshop.com)
I recently received the Korean Peace Talks Summit Coin [not really a coin of course] being sold by the official White House Gift Shop. Do you have any information about who manufactured this piece?
I was surprised how little information was published on who manufactured this souvenir
Viewpoint: FUN show jam packed with events
Opening day on the FUN bourse.
By Tony Swicer
The Florida United Numismatists convention show opened to the public at 10 a.m
2019 will be a year to please us all
Should I throw caution to the winds for my 2019 forecasts? I decided I should. Volatility is the name of the game these days as the future looks more and more uncertain.
Uncertainty means gold should be a winner
Mint Statistics: Silver Eagles beat January 2018 already
Sales of 2019-dated silver American Eagle bullion coin moved ahead by 695,000 this week. At the midpoint in the month, the running total stands at 3,366,000 coins. This already exceeds the 3,235,000 total achieved by the entire month of January in 2018
No reeding on off-center Anthony $1
(Image courtesy www.usacoinbook.com)
I’m concerned that my Anthony dollar might be a counterfeit
Who wins battle of video, written word?
When you want to know what the current price of gold is, do you want a tutorial about gold before the figure is given to you?
I don’t think so.
I was looking for something online yesterday. I had a question I wanted answered
Mint Statistics: 2019 bullion numbers jump day by day
The rush for 2019 bullion coins means that the figures below are different from the story here, which was about the first day of sales. As January goes along, more and more bullion coins are sold.
Since the monthly numbers for January below will be the same as year-to-date totals, I am being slow in making space for 2019 coins
More to 1919-S Buffalo nickel than mintage totals
Although lower-grade examples of the 1919-S Buffalo nickel are less costly than its sister 1919-D coin in lower grades, it vaults to nearly twice the 1919-D value in MS65 condition.
Things were pretty confusing back in 1919. The heavily favored White Sox lost the World Series to Cincinnati, and no one could understand that
VDB initials quietly return in 1918
Why were the initials VDB resumed on the obverse of the Lincoln cent in 1918?
The initials were restored following the replacement of Secretary of the Treasury Franklin MacVeagh with William McAdoo in 1913 and the passing of U.S. Mint coin designer Charles E
Viewpoint: Austerity chases exhibitors away
(Image courtesy https://pancoins.org/coin-clubs/)
By Robert F. Fritsch
A couple of weeks ago, Dave Harper asked, “Are numismatic organizations doing enough to look out for the little guy?” The answer to that question depends on the organization, be it local, state/regional, or national/specialty
Don’t bet on my annual forecasts
Some people you don’t trust with sharp objects. The year 2018 proved that you shouldn’t trust me with forecasts.
A toss of the coin would work out better once again
Mint Statistics: Buyers pause as year comes to end
We have just passed Christmas week where “not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.” Collectors weren’t moving either, judging by sales results up to Dec. 30
On edge about confusing coin terms
Listening to other collectors and dealers at a coin club meeting, I came away confused. They were talking about rims, edges, and collars as if they all meant the same thing. Do they?
The three terms each have differing meanings
Can’t get new dollars from your bank
They say news travels fast. It does. This is especially true in the age of the Internet
Mint Statistics: Look closely at Innovation $1 sales
What sort of yardstick should we use to measure the success of the new American Innovation $1 coin? If we look at sales of 100-coin bags, the new dollar has begun with a bang. The combined Philadelphia-Denver total nearly equals the 2018 Native American dollar 100-coin bag total.
This near equality was achieved in just a few days
What four words are on all U.S. coins?
Trick question: What four words appear on all U.S. coins?
Easy
New Iola park will honor Chet Krause
Chet Krause
To say that life is different in the Numismatic News office in Stevens Point, Wis., is an understatement.
We have been here since April 17, so nearly a year has passed
1954-S Franklin half remains a sleeper
Despite getting lost among other exciting issues of the time period, the 1954-S Franklin half dollar has shown solid price increases over the years. (Proof images courtesy www.usacoinbook
Could VDB appear on later cents?
(Image courtesy www.usacoinbook.com)
Is it possible for there to be a VDB cent between 1910 and 1917?
There is controversy whether working die 1909-VDB cents were reused following the initials VDB having been ground off the dies
Viewpoint: Too many special Kennedy halves
(Image courtesy www.usacoinbook.com)
By Todd Starbuck
Just a note to thank you for the heads-up in your Nov
FUN carries on Ambassador tradition
(Image courtesy www.funtopics.com)
How long does it take to make something fully your own? Does it ever happen? Whether it does or not, it should
Mint Statistics: Old favorites stay on top this week
Proof set sales keep perking right along as the last of the Christmas shopping is done. The clad set rose by 17,210. The silver set is up by 9,224
Silver Queen located in Virginia City
(Image courtesy truewestmagazine.com)
What is the history of the portrait known as the “Silver Queen?”
In a tavern in Virginia City, Nev., there’s a painting of a woman whose dress is decorated with 3,261 silver dollars
Unplanned action the biggest gift of all
Christmas has arrived. Time for family gatherings. Time to exchange presents
Mint Statistics: Proof sets keep holiday spotlight
Just how deeply into Mint offerings do holiday gift buyers dig? The question occurred to me as I posted the latest proof set numbers. Buyers grabbed 16,370 more clad 2018 sets and 7,815 silver sets. The uncirculated coin set sales total rose by 5,760
1873-CC no arrows quarter eclipsed by sister dime
Although half a dozen or fewer examples are known, the 1873-CC no arrows quarter has lived in the shadow of the sole 1873-CC no arrows dime specimen. (Image courtesy www.usacoinbook
Damaged cent found in proof set
One of the San Francisco Reverse Proof sets I ordered has a blatantly discolored and scratched cent to the point where you can see the gray zinc color in the groove. Do you know if a gloved or plain ol’ human hand puts the coins in the plastic slots?
I can’t be certain the Mint has a written policy on how Mint personnel handle proof coins; however, if images the mint has posted online are to be believed, gloves are to be worn when handling these coins.
Will the problem with the cent in my 2018 San Francisco Reverse Proof set impact reselling the set at a later date? A more knowledgeable friend said he doesn’t think it’s a big deal because the more sophisticated buyer, should I sell years hence, will look at the silver coins first
Newcomer shows us how it’s done
I tell myself that I don’t look through cents anymore because my old eyes just can’t handle the close work.
Is that a cop-out?
I am beginning to think it is as I report yet another find of valuable cent errors by someone who took the time to look.
This time, the error is a doubled-die 1995-D cent
Mint Statistics: Five-ounce silver leads latest sales
Block Island 5-ounce silver quarters are popular. The bullion version saw 80,000 taken away by buyers. That beats the other four designs by significant numbers
1807 half dollars reflect early Mint history
The year 1807 saw production of two half dollar designs: Draped Bust (top) and Capped Bust (bottom).
In the entire history of half dollars, there have probably been few more interesting and diverse years than 1807. It was a year when collectors simply trying to keep up with the different issues could almost have worn a path to their source of new coins, which makes for a truly fascinating story for collectors today
Error coins not seized
An example of the 2000-P error coin, which has a Washington quarter obverse muled with the reverse of a Sacagawea dollar. (Image courtesy www.pcgs
Viewpoint: Distribution uneven in quarter series
State Quarters Deluxe Collector’s Folder
By Harvey Stack
While going some file papers of the year 2009, I found a very complimentary letter from Delaware Congressman Michael N. Castle, chairman of the House Financial Services Committee in Congress during the time that the proposal for a statehood quarter program in 1995 was initiated to attract collectors and the public in collecting U.S
French speakers have found me
Small Date 1982-D copper cent
What’s the French word for counterfeit? I didn’t know, either, until I looked it up on Translate.Google.com
Mint Statistics: Holiday demand pushes up proofs
Holiday shopping seems to be boosting certain Mint sales items. The 2018 clad proof set jumped by 10,711 to 406,984. Silver proof sets rose by 6,065 to 264,239
1933-D Lincoln cent has been long overlooked
Currently listed at seemingly low prices in Mint State grades, the 1933-D Lincoln cent has long been overlooked by collectors more focused on years with lower mintages. (Images courtesy www.usacoinbook
Sacagawea dollars struck in gold
Base metal Sacagawea dollar coin. (Image courtesy www.usacoinbook
Mint asks for answers it wants to hear
By Glen McClary
I have a few remarks about the Mint survey I received and completed yesterday. I have been a U.S
Success derives from coin collecting
Chet Krause
Are coin collectors more successful in life than noncollectors? I think they are, but I have no way to prove it.
This is a thought that has crossed my mind many times over the years, but news of the auction results of the Armstrong Family Collection made me think about it again.
Heritage Auctions pulled off a sale that realized $5,276,320 Nov
Mint Statistics: Totals show zero interest in bullion
Nobody voted for gold or silver American Eagle bullion coins on election day. Zero have been sold so far in the month of November. No Buffalo gold bullion coins were sold, either
Pattern for blind ahead of its time
Please tell me what a “blind man’s nickel” is.
It’s a rarity, that’s for certain. Two 1882 pattern nickels, Judd 1683 and 1697, each had five equally spaced bars on edge
First book encounter was a lasting one
I am thinking about my first Red Book. It is dated 1965. It had been published the year before, but as a kid, I didn’t know that
Mint Statistics: Limited Edition set demand declines
Purchase momentum for the 2018-S Limited Edition Silver Proof Set slowed this week. Buyers took another 5,975 of the $144.95 set
Discovering scarcity of 1801 Draped Bust dollar
While the reported mintage for the 1801 Draped Bust silver dollar is 54,454, many factors raise questions about the accuracy of that figure and, therefore, the true scarcity of the coin.
The first coins of the United States are both historic and interesting. They are also generally scarce, and for some of us, they can be frustrating
Boy Scout medal features swastika
(Image courtesy coinquest.com)
What can you tell me about a medal on which a Boy Scout appears mounted on a horse on one side, with a reverse swastika on the other side?
These medals were issued between 1910 and 1914 by the Excelsior Shoe Company to mark the company’s association with the then-new Boy Scout movement. There are five major varieties of this medal to be collected
Viewpoint: Grading system needs linear steps
By Paul Richards
Years ago, I was an active shirt-pocket coin dealer, and I wrote an article about the grading services and about the 70-point coin grading scale.
The original article was published by Coin World, and its subsequent criticism caused me to drop the subject completely. Now, 15 years later, it may be time to dredge it up again!
The article proposes a new “linear” 32-point grading scale in contrast to today’s “non-linear” 70-point scale
Mint forum welcome step to future
News that the United States Mint is going to reach out to kids in 2019 is welcome. If anyone can reach that age group, it is the Mint. I write this not because I think the new cartoon characters will magically change kids’ attitudes toward coins
Mint Statistics: Buyers take half of Limited Edition set
The 2018-S Limited Edition Silver Proof Set posts a 24,990 number in the first few days of sales. Maximum of 50,000 is identical to the number in prior years. Price of the set is $144
1955 Jefferson nickel deserves attention
In a year filled with interesting coinage, the low-mintage 1955 Jefferson nickel has long been overlooked among other denominations. (Proof images courtesy www.usacoinbook
Maverick tokens can be tracked down
Please find attached two pictures of a token that I have recently acquired. Would you be able to help me identify what this token is or point me in the direction of where I can find material on how to identify this token?
A token that does not identify the issuer is called a maverick. These are particularly challenging to identify
Time for major new series of cents
The American Innovators $1 coin series is about to start. It will take us to the year 2032. The America the Beautiful series, which began in 2010, runs until early 2021
Mint Statistics: Silver Eagles want to fall asleep again
For the second week in a row, sales of silver American Eagle bullion coins have slowed down. Buyers grabbed just 200,000 pieces, compared to 260,000 the week before. The September sales surge is well and truly over
Viewpoint: Too late for 100-point grading scale
(Image courtesy of www.apmex.com)
By Bill Fivaz
Wow! I hope my good friend Ron Guth loves to fish, because he has opened up a big can of worms! Dipping his toe into the water and proposing a dramatic change from the current 70-point grading system to that of 100 points has prompted a tremendous and very divisive discussion – which is great! It shows that people are interested in the well-being of the hobby and are taking the time to voice their opinion
1861-D half eagle history shrouded in mystery
As control of the Dahlonega Mint moved from the United States to the state of Georgia to the Confederate States of America in the early days of the Civil War, questions remain on how many 1861-D half eagles were struck and under what authority. (Images courtesy www.usacoinbook
Short snorters organized by signatures
This Series of 1935-A $1 HAWAII note features signatures of Bob Hope and his entire USO entertainment troupe. (Image courtesy Mark Hotz)
Is there a way in which people typically collect short snorters?
There are many ways to collect these notes, but the most popular is likely when the note provides information including names, ranks, serial numbers, military unit designations, and other information of historical value.
Could the signatures on a short snorter be counterfeits? In other words, could someone forge a famous person’s signature on such a note?
Signatures in question should be examined by a handwriting expert
Viewpoint: Barber quarter variety worth a look
(Image courtesy www.usacoinbook.com)
By Mark Johnson
While browsing the dealer tables at the Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Coin Show, a nicely toned 1900 Barber quarter caught my eye at Dean Oakes’ table
We haven’t changed much, have we?
(Image courtesy www.govmint.com)
Looking at my calendar in preparation for this issue, it occurred to me that I have an anniversary to celebrate
Mint Statistics: Special coin and stamp set a yawner
The Breast Cancer Awareness Coin and Stamp set put up its first number below. It is just 2,846. Mintage limit is 25,000
Reference catalog not an offer to sell
If you don’t buy or sell coins, why do you publish all those catalogs offering them for sale?
Catalogs, like coins, come in varieties. There are two principal varieties of coin catalogs: reference catalogs and sale catalogs. We publish only reference catalogs
Topics many don’t want to think about
Benjamin Franklin (Image courtesy Joseph Duplessis [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons)Benjamin Franklin said the only things certain are death and taxes. Coin collectors are notoriously averse to thinking about either.
How many heirs have contacted me over the years after the passing of a loved one? Too many
Mint Statistics: Silver bullion Eagles put in big number
Silver American Eagle bullion coins are hot. In just one week, the Mint has sold 1,010,000 more of them to its Authorized Purchasers. The running tally for the year is now 12,680,000
Full-Bell-Line 1952-S avoids dud -65 price
A combination of factors (including not being saved and becoming subject to melting) makes 1952-S Franklin half dollars not readily available in any quantity, especially in top grade. (Images courtesy www.usacoinbook
BEP just one issuer of souvenir cards
Should I consider Bureau of Engraving and Printing printed souvenir cards to be the only true souvenir cards?
Souvenir cards are an exonumia area of collecting occasionally sought by both coin and stamp collectors. The BEP began its current program in 1969, but it is only one source of these cards. There is no reason you can’t collect those as well that are printed by other sources
100-point scale deserves discussion
(Image courtesy www.ExpertNumismatics.com)
We struck pay dirt in terms of numbers of readers responding to the question of whether numismatics should change to a 100-point grading scale
Mint Statistics: Steady buyers push up sales totals
Who are the steady buyers of clad 2018 proof sets? This week’s sales of 7,208 is a similar number to last week. The running total for the year is 355,245. In 10 year’s time, will they complain that the price has gone down, or have they simply tuned out the secondary market and reliably add a set to their collection each and every year? The Mint needs to put a high value on steady customers
Prince of Wales service with a smile?
Reverse of English twopence featuring the phrase “Ich Dien” on the ribbon (KM987).
Would you please translate “Ich Dien,” the German phrase on the English twopence?
It means “I Serve,” from the badge of the Prince of Wales. It dates to Edward, the Black Prince (1330-1376)
Good times once rolled for the ANA
Quick. When I say American Numismatic Association, who do you think of?
If you have been a member for 40 years as I have, the first few individuals who pop into mind might very well be dead.
John Jay Pittman was Mr
Mint Statistics: Don’t ration your attention to Eagles
Silver American Eagle bullion coin rationing is now in effect until the end of 2018. Who saw this coming after months of slow sales? This week, the Mint vended an additional 925,000 Eagle coins to bring the September running total to 1,962,500. The tally for the year to date is now 11,200,000
1878 Morgan with 8 tailfeathers remains popular
A nice 1878 Morgan dollar with 8 tail feathers is a special coin as the first of a very popular set.
When it comes to popularity, there are few U.S
Eagle box tape shows mint of origin
Between 2011 and 2014, the San Francisco Mint facility supplemented production of silver American Eagles otherwise struck at West Point; yet despite lacking a telltale mintmark, the certification services have been able to encapsulate these coins identifying which mint made the coins. How can they do this?
Silver American Eagle coins purchased in the large green monster boxes between 2011 and 2014 were secured with yellow strapping tape on which the mint of origin is marked. The U
Viewpoint: Tired of Mint State? Try lowball coins
By Mike Walker
For those who believe the only way to collect coins is to always be hunting for the highest grade and quality, I would suggest that you can have the same amount of enjoyment and intrigue building your coin sets in lowball grades.
Two primary issues come into play when building a competitive high-end set: 1) the cost increases with each upgrade, sometimes very significantly, and 2) one never knows for sure if your Top Pop 1 coin might be matched or even surpassed. The beauty of collecting coins in low grade is that once you have a PO01 (also known as a “poor one”), the worst that can happen is that your coin becomes a Top Pop as opposed to a Top Pop 1 because it can only be matched but not ever exceeded
Let average people strike first coin
Everybody knows what a first strike ceremony is. The bigwigs gather around a coin press. The guest of honor pushes a button, and the very first coin of a new design is made
Mint Statistics: Interest in ‘S’ proof Eagle plummets
Weekly sales of 2018-S proof silver American Eagles declined by three-quarters compared to last week. Just 5,006 were taken by buyers. As low as this number is, sales of the 2018-W proof silver Eagle were lower still at 2,692
Lower mintage, price make 1978 Ike a good buy
The 1978 Eisenhower dollar is one of the more interesting modern-date dollars. It is a tough coin to figure out. Available supplies have never really been tested, and until there is a real test, it is hard to know just how good or available this coin might prove to be over time
Eagle’s wings gave Ben buck teeth
Bugs Bunny variety of the 1955 Franklin half dollar. (Image courtesy of CCF Numismatics [CC BY-SA 3.0 (https://creativecommons
Viewpoint: Should leaders serve multiple clubs?
By Mitch Ernst
While I was at the American Numismatic Association World’s Fair of Money in Philadelphia, I took in their “What it takes to serve on the ANA Board” talk. I applaud the ANA for the topics discussed, the taboos touched upon, and the realities they told their audience they must face if they wanted to run for the ANA board. The booklet the ANA produced for the event is absolutely wonderful
Coins I didn’t buy were the good ones
Editor Dave Harper has never regretted standing in line at a local bank in 1964 to obtain two Kennedy half dollars on the first day they became available.
As I was writing up the results of the Ruth Weinberg estate coins in the GreatCollections.com auction on Page 20, I kept thinking of all the opportunities I have missed in coin collecting
Mint Statistics: Accountants active, buyers less so
Accountants have caught up with reality at the U.S. Mint
General put name on auto dollar
I’m told that the Chinese general who had the automobile dollar minted secretly put his name on the coin. Is this correct?
Several authorities agree that Gen. Chow, who was governor of Kweichow Province from 1926-1929, did order that the Chinese characters for Hsi-ch’eng be hidden among the grass blades, which cover the ground in the foreground of the obverse
ANA helps us see coins at their best
The United States Mint had three 1933 $20 gold pieces on display at the American Numismatic Association World’s Fair of Money in August in Philadelphia.
It is not too often that collectors have a chance to gawk at one, and we should be grateful the Mint is treating the coins like a legacy to be preserved for future generations.
Individual coin dealers also brought a number of historic rarities to the show
Mint Statistics: Silver reverse proof set reaches sellout
The 2018 San Francisco Silver Reverse Proof Set looks like it has sold out. The Mint website shows it as not currently available. The latest sales statistic shows that 189,325 of a possible 200,000 have been sold
1854-O gold $3 tougher than expected
Debuting in 1854, the gold $3 was struck at Philadelphia, New Orleans, and Dahlonega. Today, tracking down Mint State examples of the 1854-O (shown above) can be a difficult task.
Relatively little is known about the 1854-O gold $3
Damaged coins get put into jewelry
Can you explain what is meant by a “jewelry lot” of coins?
This is a group of coins that due to their low quality or damaged state are more suitable to be converted into jewelry or to be scrapped for their intrinsic value than to be collected.
2017 $25 American Eagle palladium bullion coin (Image courtesy www.usmint
Viewpoint: Protect websites from phishing attacks
By Scott Barman
Regarding L.A. Saryan’s Viewpoint article about how someone may have captured email addresses from his coin club’s website to use in an attempted phishing attack, please allow me to use my former life as an information security expert to help Saryan and other coin clubs to protect themselves
August 1987 seems relevant today
Silver has suddenly dropped to lows not seen since the beginning of 2016. The $14.41 price as this is written on Aug
Mint Statistics: World War I breaks out of the trenches
What do you know? When the Mint put the World War I coin and medal sets back on sale, the results have actually been positive. Even the commemorative dollars sold individually showed a little spark of life.
The Army medal set rose by 1,185 to reach 15,080
1805 the first quarter many can afford
Whether or not demand will result in significant price increases, the 1805 Draped Bust quarter with Heraldic Eagle reverse is a historic coin with a relatively affordable price in lower grades.
Early quarters are just plain tough. In fact, if you are living on an average income, you could have a real problem trying to afford any early quarter
Reopened ‘O’ Mint made proof dollars
New Orleans Mint (Image courtesy https://us-mint.info)
Branch mint proofs are unusual. Why did the New Orleans Mint strike proof silver dollars in 1879?
It has been suggested the proofs were struck to mark the reopening of the New Orleans facility, which had closed during the Civil War
Viewpoint: Mint three-cent coin to save money
How about a holed three-cent coin to replace some of the massive quantities of one-cent coins being produced?
By Wayne Pearson
Rather than abolish the cent, as some would like, saving the cent could be as easy as 1-2-3. A Trime. Consider if we issued a three-cent piece
Changes come through like buses
What are coin collectors thinking about this summer? Judging from the letters below, they are thinking about the same things they usual think about.
There are new Mint products to weigh in on, errors to report, circulation finds, and activities at major coin shows.
In short, numismatics in summertime is still bustling with activity
Mint Statistics: Current sellout watch like paint drying
World War I Centennial Silver Dollar and Medal Sets have gone back on sale. Sales figures below have inched up a tad for all five sets. Whether the Mint can resell all of the sets that were returned is another question
Mint packaging can be a problem
Is it safe to leave my proof coins and mint sets in the packaging they were in when I received them from the Mint?
As a general rule, the proof set hard plastic packaging is airtight, but the plastic envelopes used for the mint sets are not. Several world mints that use similar mint set packaging state specifically that it is not intended for long-term storage. The coins would be better off in an airtight holder, anyway
Who has the biggest pile of gold $20s?
(Image courtesy www.apmex.com)
United States Steel was the first billion dollar corporation back in 1901
Mint Statistics: Reverse proof numbers shy of sellout
Still interested in reverse proof sets? After all, a week is a long time in the Internet Age. Since the last column, the Mint has sold 39,281 of the San Francisco Silver Reverse Proof Set. This brings the total to 145,389
Beauty, history behind Saint-Gaudens design appeal
The 1907 High Relief Saint-Gaudens double eagle (shown here with wire rim) is considered by many to be America’s most beautiful coin. This, plus its historical significance, keeps prices high.
Most of us cannot afford a 1907 Ultra High Relief example of the Saint-Gaudens double eagle
First commem definitely Columbian
(Image courtesy www.ngccoin.com)
Reader Frank Crowe wrote: This is in response to the Coin Clinic comment in the June 5 “Numismatic News” concerning the debate whether or not the Columbian Exposition half dollar should be considered the first commemorative coin or not
Viewpoint: Coin club officers scam targets?
By L.A. Saryan
You’ve won the international lottery! A long-lost relative has passed away in a foreign country and left you an inheritance of $8
Lower-grade 1810 half cents show price jump
While the 1810 Classic Head half cent is not readily available in any grade, examples from the lower end of the grading scale have shown exponential price increases over the past two decades.
Half cents are a lot tougher than you might think. Just try to buy one in G-4 condition – even an example that all the specialists would scoff at will cost you a very good premium over a similarly average large cent
Veterans opposed design
I would like to know what symbol was originally on the Peace dollar, but not distributed. Was it a broken sword? Do any exist?
According to Q. David Bowers in Silver Dollars and Trade Dollars of the United States, “Representatives of World War veterans’ groups had obtained a copy of the drawing for the reverse and did not like what they saw
Viewpoint: Save money, better art; why not act?
By Wayne Pearson
To help with costs for the one-cent coin, do you think the introduction of a trime would be beneficial? If we made 16 trimes out of every 100 one-cent coins (48 cents), then we would need only make 52 one-cent coins. Already a savings in materials for 32 coins. 16 + 52 = 68
Use cash to buy while prices are down
It appears the news is continuing that as the price of gold and silver go, so goes the coin collecting market. Gold is dropping toward $1,200 per ounce, while silver heads toward $15. Platinum struggles to hold above the $800 an ounce level
Emotion and silver dollars together
Please don’t run me out of town on a rail. I frequently write that Morgan dollars are the most popular collector coin with the possible exception of the Lincoln cent.
From time to time, a weekly poll question has been asked whether this is so
Mints strike more than legal tender
Does the term “mint struck” mean the piece is a legal-tender coin?
Far from it. The mint might be either a government or a private mint. The item might be a circulating coin, a non-circulating proof or commemorative, or even a medal, token, or just about any other object that can be placed between a pair of dies
Platinum falls with copper and nickel
It has been nearly 12 years since the United States Treasury banned the melting of cents and nickels. It prohibited the export of the coins as well.
This was done in December of 2006 because the government was facing the growing prospect of the mass melting of nickels
Mint Statistics: Single coin ‘set’ puzzlingly unavailable
Remember the 2018 Congratulations Set? You can be forgiven for not being able to. I had to refresh my memory. This week, the sales number dropped by 501 to 19,252
Stars do not signify genuineness
Stars on the reverse of the Kennedy half dollar number significantly more than 13. (Image courtesy www.usacoinbook
Stars do not signify genuineness
Stars on the reverse of the Kennedy half dollar number significantly more than 13. (Image courtesy www.usacoinbook
Memories of coins might be painful
Clifford Mishler has long made the observation that people usually collect what they know.
People my age who are car collectors are drawn to the muscle cars of the late 1960s and early 1970s from a time when we were young. Coin collectors zero in on their memories of what they used to make purchases
Memories of coins might be painful
Clifford Mishler has long made the observation that people usually collect what they know.
People my age who are car collectors are drawn to the muscle cars of the late 1960s and early 1970s from a time when we were young. Coin collectors zero in on their memories of what they used to make purchases
Mint Statistics: Gold Eagle buyers step up their game
The latest results we can boil down to American Eagle bullion coins and 2018 silver and clad proof sets. The rest of the Mint’s offerings show so little movement that you can easily ignore them.
Gold Eagles began July fairly strongly with 6,500 one-ounce coins taken up by the Authorized Purchaser network
1944-S Walking Liberty half was long overlooked
The 1944-S Walking Liberty half dollar is edging closer to dates always assumed to be far better. While it probably will not catch either the 1941-S or 1942-S in price, it is only slightly more available than either. That should keep its price steady
Gold bars made since the Bronze Age
When and where was the first gold ingot (or bar) made?
Metal ingots have been cast since the dawn of refining when the Stone Age was replaced by the Bronze Age, which in turn was replaced by the Iron Age. No exacting time line exists for when one of these metal ages replaced a previous “technology.” Gold has been recognized as something of value to be used as money since at least the Bronze Age, perhaps earlier
Viewpoint: One good find deserves another
1943-P Lincoln steel cent. (Image courtesy www.usacoinbook
Reader finds show way to future
There is nothing like circulation finds to get a collector’s blood pumping. This week, the Viewpoint and a couple of letters offer results of coin searches.
I couldn’t be happier about it
Mint Statistics: Platinum surprise winner in bullion race
If you had to choose which bullion American Eagle coins, gold, silver or platinum, were having the best year compared to 2017, which would you choose? How about platinum? Though none has been sold in June, the 2018 sales total of 30,000 is 50 percent higher than the 20,000 number of platinum Eagles sold in 2017. In case you are curious, in 2016 the Mint also sold 20,000. In 2015, sales were zero
Check for whizzing on silver dollar
How can I tell if a Morgan dollar has altered surfaces and is not prooflike?
Examine the coin under significant magnification and good lighting. If the coin has been whizzed to improve the surface appearance, it will become obvious through minute hairlines.
How can I tell a proof from a prooflike Morgan silver dollar?
Any proof coin should have obviously squared rims, while a business strike coin (including prooflike Morgan dollars) will have a gently sloping rim
Viewpoint: Coins merit national tax exemption
By definition, sales and use taxes are called “consumption taxes” because they are imposed on items that are consumed or used up. Some states (Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire and Oregon) do not assess any sales or use taxes. Most of the rest of the states have complete or partial sales tax exemptions on the in-state retail sales of rare coins and precious metals
Club dinner part of a better future
A traditional coin show offers collectors a wide range of opportunities.
It’s a good thing I don’t go to the Nicolet Coin Club dinner more than once a year. I am treated so well by its members that I would get a swelled head
Mint Statistics: Proof sets set collector hearts aflutter
The most exciting sales figures this week were for proof sets. The 2018 clad proof set number rose by 5,159 to 243,540. The silver proof set rose by 4,316 and now stands at 176,752
1855 Seated Liberty dollar ‘dramatically underrated’
Several factors – including a low mintage, lack of public and collector interest at the time, and limited supply in today’s market – have caused the 1855 Seated Liberty dollar to become a true sleeper.
Sleepers come in all forms. Sometimes coins are not heavily collected, and as a result, are not priced at the same levels as others with a greater collector base
Full Steps help Jeffersons stand out
(Image courtesy http://jeffersonnickel.org)
How important is the appearance of Full Steps on a Jefferson/Monticello nickel to the overall grade of the coin?
Full Steps is a designation treated the same as are Full Split Bands on Mercury dimes and Full Head on Standing Liberty quarters. This doesn’t indicate the coin is fully struck or necessarily without some indication of abrasions or wear
Viewpoint: Idea not good if it burns collectors
by Charles Salemi
Your Class of ‘63 article in the May 29th Numismatic News suggests putting mintmarks on bullion coins to help the Mint use the enhanced capacity it now finds itself having more of than needed.
At first glance, this sounds like a good idea. However, doing some research on the Mint’s site, the Mint itself differentiates between bullion coins and all other coins meant for collectors and circulation (https://catalog
Nominate now for Numismatic Ambassador Awards
Organized numismatics could not exist without volunteers to do the work. That is a fact.
Another fact is that these volunteers do not get enough recognition
Mint Statistics: Uncirculated Eagle stalls under 100,000
Losing its oomph this week was the 2018-W uncirculated collector version of the silver American Eagle bullion coin. It went on the board a week ago for the first time at under 90,000 pieces. Another 5,980 were sold in the succeeding seven days
Firm put name on its reproduction
An example of the Massachusetts Pine Tree shilling.
I have a Massachusetts Pine Tree copper cent that has the word “Copely” on it. What is it?
It is a copy struck in 1960 by the Copely Coin Co
Shield collectors from randomness
Collectors like organizing principles. After all, what is collecting other than organizing chaos? On the other hand, the Mint likes marketing chaos. At least that is how I interpret what it is presently doing
Mint Statistics: Gold Eagle sales revive in month of May
May gold Eagle bullion coin sales stand at roughly half of the January levels. However, the important thing to remember is that the May totals are greater than February, March and April’s combined. Does this spell revival of interest in gold bullion coins? Throw in growing demand for the gold Buffalo in May and it just might
Bargain price attracts 1882 Shield nickel buyers
The copper-nickel Shield nickel of 1882 had a relatively large mintage in comparison to the series’ previous five years of proof-only (1877-1878) and less than 100,000 (1879-1881) pieces.
The Shield nickel is not presently a hot area of the U.S
Starship on Canadian $10
Mint Statistics: Will you be a buyer of proof Buffalo?
Whether you buy it or not, you have to agree that the one-ounce proof Buffalo gold coin is a beauty. The 2018-W went on sale, and the first results are in. Buyers snapped up 6,238 of them
What happened to 1934-D Peace dollars?
It is possible that the 1934-D Peace dollar was the only one in the series never released in bag quantities. (Images courtesy www.usacoinbook
Overstruck quarters raise eyebrows
Who is responsible for the quarters that have been overstruck to poke fun at some political figures?
No one appears ready to admit to making these, although there are a number of coin dealers willing to sell them.
I understand there was a problem in Canada recently when, due to the drop in the spot price of silver, the face value of some of Canada’s commemorative silver coins exceeded their intrinsic value. Has this happened elsewhere?
It has happened previously in both Panama (gold $100 coins) and the British Virgin Islands (silver coins)
Viewpoint: Kennedys hold memories, little profit
(Image courtesy coins.thefuntimesguide.com)
By Thomas Jillson
Thank you for your weekly editorial regarding Kennedy half dollars
Put mintmarks on bullion Eagles
It is no longer news that output levels of silver American Eagle bullion coins are at 10-year lows. It was not so long ago that production was setting records.
The 2015 number of 47 million pieces was a huge deal when it occurred
Mint Statistics: Not the dog days but May acts like it
My calendar says May, but activity at the U.S. Mint feels more like August’s dog days of summer
Dollar sign written before numerals
Why do some countries put the denomination symbol like the dollar sign before the amount and some after?
In the U.S., we write $10 and read it as ten dollars, exactly the reverse of the way it’s written
Shrink cent while cash still used
In the ongoing debate between keeping the cent and killing it off, I am surprised that the suggestion of shrinking it has so little traction.
We have done it before as a nation. When the small cent arrived in 1857 with a Flying Eagle on it, it proved to be wildly popular
Mint Statistics: Silver proof set makes its 2018 debut
The 2018 silver proof set goes on the page this week with an initial sales number of 161,518. Clad proof sets added 8,236 to bring the running total to 214,606.
What caught my eye this week were sales numbers for some 2017 basic collector sets
Relatively high mintage helped 1820 half eagle survive
Although not large by normal standards, the relatively high mintage for the 1820 Capped Head left half eagle (when compared to its contemporaries) led to a higher number of examples surviving in Mint State today than one would expect.
Let’s be honest – the average collector has little chance of acquiring a Capped Head left half eagle from the 1820s. It is just not likely to happen since the mintages are so small
Top officials on Assay Commission
Our now defunct Assay Commission included some coin collectors. I’m certain this wasn’t the original intent. Who were the commissioners initially?
The first U
Viewpoint: Take action to fight counterfeits
By Matthew D. Kohel
Counterfeiting has become the largest underground industry in the world. Fake goods can be found in nearly all types of products, including gold and silver coins and bars
New office means a new address
Saying hello from the new front entrance of F+W Media are current and former ‘Numismatic News’ graphic designers Rebecca Vogel (left) and Nicole MacMartin (right).
Settling into the new offices of Numismatic News has occupied a considerable amount of time recently.
But the process is now complete
Funny-looking coins not likely patterns
My information is that any unusual coin found in circulation is either a pattern or a trial strike. Care to comment?
You would be surprised by the number of letters in my files, frequently from dealers, making that same assumption. The fact of the matter is that there are almost no documented cases of either a pattern or trial strike getting into circulation in the 20th century, and not very many in the previous century
Coins offer insurance in bad times
During the Great Depression, Joseph P. Kennedy said in 1936 that he would gladly give up half his fortune if he could be guaranteed he would keep the other half.
That sounds peculiar until one remembers the context of the times
Mint Statistics: No spring in U.S. Mint sales numbers
There were 10 inches of snow in Iola, Wis., April 3. Spring definitely has not sprung here
1905 Barber half dollar tough in top grades
Low demand keeps prices down for the 1905 Barber half dollar, especially for proof examples, which are actually easier to find than high-grade Mint State examples.
Normally people don’t get very excited about issues from Philadelphia, especially those from the past century. Their mintages were routinely higher than either Denver or San Francisco, so they tend to be more available
Shield nickel has unimaginative design
The Shield nickel design is unimaginative, and other than the 2- and 3-cent coins of the time is the only coin lacking a depiction of Liberty. Why the shield?
The reasoning for yet another shield only two years after the introduction of the 2-cent coin is a lack of imagination and for that reason was loudly criticized. According to comments published in the 1866 American Journal of Numismatics, “The motto In God We Trust is very opportune, for the inventor of this coin may rest assured that the devil will never forgive him for such an abortion
Viewpoint: Crack-outs skew coin ‘pop’ reports
(Image courtesy http://news.coinupdate.com)
By Richard Francis
I am certain that in 1959, when a high-school student named Brian received an “F” on an assignment for music class, he must have been very discouraged
Ryder perfect for Mint directorship
David J. Ryder
The chair of David Rittenhouse has finally been filled after remaining empty for over seven years.
David J
Mint Statistics: Beware accountants with sales revisions
Mint accounting is reconciling again. You know what that means. All five World War I Centennial dollar and medal sets saw subtractions from their sales totals
Any originals of gold coin restrike?
(Image courtesy www.apmex.com)
How can there be restrikes if there weren’t any original coins?
The question referred specifically to the Austrian 1915 20 corona gold piece
Give this desk one last going over
he long-time headquarters for Krause Publications (a division of F+W Media, Inc.) in Iola, Wis., will soon be vacated for a new office in the city of Stevens Point
Mint Statistics: Proof gold Eagles now a flock of three
Proof 2018-W gold American Eagles go on the board this week. It is not elegant to put them where First Spouse gold coins were last week, but it is necessary. Would you believe the U
1908-S Saint-Gaudens supply held in European vaults
Although not widely collected at the time of its release, the 1908-S Saint-Gaudens double eagle supply is better than expected today as a number were shipped to Europe rather than melted.
While the 1908-S Saint-Gaudens double eagle is not a great rarity, it is tough. It also has an interesting story, which makes it fun for collectors to study and to own
Viewpoint: Civil War token found in cent roll
An 1863 Civil War token from Oshkosh, Wis., turned up in a bank roll of cents purchased from a bank in California.
By Matthew Malvini
My name is Matthew Malvini
How about a label for 2018 cents?
United States Mint Denver Facility
It appears a fountain of new cents has been yielding huge quantities of Denver coins across America.
Why Denver is getting this honor, I don’t know. But the best summary of it came from a reader who lives in Orlando – Philadelphia cent country
Mint Statistics: Proof silver Eagles outshine other coins
Proof 2018-W silver American Eagles are in the spotlight this week. Why? Sales did not decline. The weekly advance was counted in the thousands rather than the hundreds as most other categories were
Mint Statistics: Little notice paid to tenth-ounce gold
It is going to be a long slog to reach sellout status for the American Liberty tenth-ounce 2018 gold proof coin. Mintage limit is set at 135,000. In the opening days of sales, the Mint vended 14,741
Average supply makes top 1880-O Morgans tough
Original bags of 1880-O Morgan dollars did not always contain Mint State coins, resulting in a limited supply of top-grade examples left for collectors on the market today.
The 1880-O Morgan dollar might just be a sleeper. It’s a better New Orleans date than most people realize, although it is still at least available in most grades
Coin designer initials treated differently
(Images courtesy www.usacoinbook.com)
The letter “L” had appeared on Indian cents to identify Longacre as the designer
Viewpoint: CSNS to confront harassment issues
By Mitch Ernst
I think I speak for many when I say that I have been shocked to see the depth and scope of sexual harassment reports affecting many different kinds of workplace environments. Whether it is politics, the entertainment world, schools or athletic departments, the reports are stunning. Even more stunning are the reports of a culture that allows such behavior to go unreported due to fear of retaliation, disbelief of victims’ claims or simply turning a blind eye
Don’t let Wall Street disturb you
I wrote a blog a couple of days ago while the financial markets were throwing a fit. It is hard not to notice problems on Wall Street. However, we collectors should be grateful that we don’t have to, as I pointed out in the following:
Will the stock market continue to plunge today after big selloffs Friday and Monday? Coin collectors who have 401(k) plans and IRAs probably want to know
Mint Statistics: Negative sales the new Mint norm?
This is the week where the Mint apparently was taking coins back rather than selling new ones. The one-ounce proof 2018-W silver American Eagle saw sales decline by 5,968 to 235,897.
Some buyers of the World War I two-piece coin and medal sets must have discovered that they had purchased medals by mistake
Left and right confusing for coins
I’m never sure whether rules governing left and right on a coin refer to the coin’s left and right, or the viewer’s left and right. Can you help?
Where possible, coin designs follow the rules of heraldry. Under those rules, the left and right are those of the design, not the viewer
Collectors attracted to sunken treasure
Dwight Manley examines coins from the S.S. Central America
New 2018 issues climb very slowly
World War I Centennial two-piece set sales advanced a bit in the latest reporting week, but none of them is anywhere near a sellout. The set with the Army medal in it was up by 1,871, Air Service by 1,664, Navy by 1,600, Marines by 1,513 and Coast Guard by 1,215. The individual proof coin rose by 4,591 to reach a sales figure of 29,580
Top-grade 1918-D dime has become a key date
While lower-grade examples may still be readily available, the 1918-D Mercury dime in top grades is commanding prices that puts it among the top few regular dates in the series.
No one ever thought of the 1918-D Mercury dime as anything close to the key 1916-D in terms of availability, but that is beginning to change. Only in the past couple of decades has the 1918-D been sought in MS-65 condition with full split bands
Put unsold commems into circulation?
The Booker T. Washington and George Washington Carver half dollar was the the final commemorative half among classic U.S
Viewpoint: New Mint medal program just bullion
By Donald Scarinci
Last week, after years of prodding by members of the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee (CCAC) and the collector community, the United States Mint finally announced a medal program. Unfortunately, it is nothing more than a bullion sales program and is likely to do more to discourage future medal collectors than to encourage them.
The current plan is to reissue the bronze presidential medal series on proof silver Eagle dollar-size planchets
I’d be in good shape if it were 2012
Have you spotted a 2018-dated coin in your change yet? I asked readers of my blog on Jan. 11 to keep me posted. So far, no one has reported a 2018 coin find
Mint Statistics: Looks like just half of medals sold
If I am reading the latest sales figures correctly, the five two-piece World War I Centennial and service medal sets are not sold out. The numbers in the box below add up to 47,061. The Mint says “Product Limit: 100,000 across all 5 coin and medal set products
Two types for 1917-S Standing Liberty quarter
The Type I 1917-S Standing Liberty quarter featured Liberty with a bare breast on the obverse. A covered breast, and three stars added below the eagle on the reverse, debuted on the Type 2.
There are two 1917-S Standing Liberty quarters, and it’s safe to say that both are interesting coins
Bullion coins will survive cashless push
The cashless society concept appears to be catching on worldwide. What is your long-range view for the total demise of coins and bank notes?
Coins and bank notes as we know them might but in my opinion are not likely to change or go away. Specie coinage will remain even if circulation currency doesn’t
Viewpoint: FUN convention a memorable event
By Glen D. McClary
Last year was the first time I missed the Florida United Numismatists show in 10 years. The miss was due to the unfortunate closing of the airport at Fort Lauderdale
2018 looks like a good year all around
Here I go again, putting myself out on a limb to forecast what is going to happen in 2018. Making a forecast is a tradition stretching back many years. Just don’t bet the farm on any of these outcomes
Mint Statistics: Silver Eagles fly higher than gold
January bullion sales at the halfway mark show silver at 54 percent of the January 2017 results and the gold one-ounce Eagle at 34 percent. Obviously silver Eagles are outpacing the gold, but it is still nothing to write home about. With just 250,000 silver Eagles added since last week, it is easy to envision a month where results fall short of even 3
Curls gave Lincoln portrait texture
(Image courtesy www.usacoinbook.com)
Is the bust on the Lincoln cent an accurate reproduction?
Victor David Brenner took liberties with Lincoln’s hair, giving it the 1909 version of a permanent wave, as all contemporary photos show Lincoln with straight hair
Time to start my own cryptocurrency
If I wanted to get rich, I would announce the creation of my new cryptocurrency in this space. It is the latest trend.
Everybody is doing it from failing dictatorships in Venezuela to failing camera film companies like Kodak
Mint Statistics: Many asterisks denote coins off sale
The asterisk was the most frequently used non-numerical keystroke as I put this weekly set of numbers together from the Mint’s sales report. Many things have gone off sale.
Some new items have arrived
1916-S half appeals for numerous reasons
A new design, a relatively low mintage, and an obverse mintmark (later moved to the reverse) are factors that combine to lend collector interest to the 1916-S Walking Liberty half dollar.
Even though the 1916-S Walking Liberty half dollar is not as expensive as its low mintage might suggest, it certainly is historic. While you may not get a bargain price, you do get a coin with a lot to offer
Hard alloy created minting varieties
Why is it that there are so many date varieties within the Shield nickel series?
The metal hardness of the copper-nickel and the inexperience of the U.S. Mint with such a challenging coin of such a composition were the likely culprits
Viewpoint: Is Small Date copper truly an error?
The author’s one-of-a-kind 1982-D Small Date cent struck on a copper planchet.
By Paul Malone
The dust has settled, and my copper 1982-D Small Date cent now belongs to someone else. For 223 days the Internet was buzzing with speculation about its value, and hundreds of collectors were claiming to have found the next one
Half right, half wrong – no way to brag
How charitable do you want to be as I add up the results of my forecasts for the year 2017? I can make the figures add up to 6-4, 5-5 or 4-6 depending on whether you let me. I call it 5-5.
1
Mint Statistics: Boys Town focus of year-end buyers
As the year 2017 came to an end, collectors were putting in their purchases for Boys Town commemoratives. In terms of sheer numbers, buyers zeroed in on the uncirculated silver dollar. They took 703 in the week to push total sales to 12,313
Old notes weigh more than new ones
(Image courtesy https://www.uscurrency.gov)
Would a stack of 490 new U
New year offers many coins to acquire
A new year means there are coins with a new date on them to chase.
In the old days, collectors simply bought a proof set and a mint set and had them all.
It is no longer so easy
Mint Statistics: Nixon and Ford show odd increases
This is a head-scratcher of a week as collectors try to assess how last-minute demand affects the ultimate scarcity of coins going off sale. What will they make of the new numbers for the uncirculated Pat Nixon and Betty Ford First Spouse gold coins? Nixon rose by 259 to reach 1,975. Ford rose by 237 to reach an identical 1,975
Nearly 3 million coins in CC hoard
Can you tell me what was in the General Services Administration inventory of Carson City dollars when the auction sales began?
The inventory was without question the largest single accumulation of Carson City silver dollars. By date, followed by number of pieces, it included:
1878-CC 60,993
1879-CC 4,123
1880-CC 131,529
1881-CC 147,485
1882-CC 605,029
1883-CC 755,518
1884-CC 962,638
1885-CC 148,285
1889-CC 1
1890-CC 3,949
1891-CC 5,687
1892-CC 1
1893-CC 1
The total was 2,937,695 coins.
Aren’t those who oppose the abolition of the one-cent coin using a rather dated argument?
Perhaps a bit out of context, yes
Who gets to decide on coin designs?
Coin collectors have groused that Congress has taken commemorative coin programs to ridiculous extremes. The worst of it was during the Atlanta Olympic Games of 1996.
Since then, programs have been limited to two a year, and there is a standard template of a gold $5, silver dollar and clad half dollar to follow
Mint Statistics: Bullion buyers stay focused on gold
Interest in gold American Eagle bullion coins continues in the latest week. Sales are up by another 8,000 one-ounce coins. There are four months in 2017 where that weekly figure either beats or ties the whole month
1937-D three-legged Buffalo stays popular
The loss of a limb on the 1937-D Buffalo nickel reverse probably resulted from too much regrinding of a die in order to remove clash marks.
Some coins just seem to catch everyone by surprise and create a special demand because they are different. That is certainly the case with the 1937-D Buffalo nickel, since the animal on the reverse has only three legs
Change to Small Date deliberate
Close-up views of the 1982-D Large Date cent (top) and the 1982-D Small Date cent (bottom).
Was the change made deliberately from a Large Date to a Small Date cent in 1982?
Cents made early in 1982 are primarily composed of copper, while the later issue is comprised of copper-plated zinc. The obverse die was modified to allow better strike detail on the copper-plated zinc coins
Viewpoint: Not just silver Eagles seeing slump
By Sean Moffatt
Being in the bullion manufacturing business for going on 30 years, I have some insight that I would like to share. It is not just the U.S
Follow rules to give 2018 good start
It is not quite the end of the year as I write this. It will soon be time to evaluate my forecasts made for 2017. I then have to make new ones for 2018
Mint Statistics: Gold Eagle buyers jump in big time
Gold American Eagle bullion coins came alive this week. Suddenly, 28,000 one-ounce coins have been sold with smaller numbers of the fractional sizes. This makes December the second busiest sales month of 2017 for the ouncers
Hawaii cents ‘sacrificed’ to volcano
Do you know the legend that surrounds the disappearance of the 1847 Hawaii cents?
The reverse design of the 1847 cent includes a wreath of ohelo leaves and berries. This is a plant that grows on the slopes of Kilauea volcano. The connection was enough to make the coins popular as a substitute sacrifice to Pele, the goddess of fire who was believed to live in the volcano
Who will get Coin of the Year Award?
Coin of the Year balloting is occurring later this year than last. The international panel of judges began voting as this electronic issue of Numismatic News was being prepared.
Who will win? It is up to the judges to vote to determine the winner
Mint Statistics: Medal beats coin; can you believe it?
Can you imagine a medal outselling a coin? It is happening right in front of our eyes. Look at the proof Boys Town silver dollar. Mintage is 25,049
High-grade 1922-S Peace dollars tough
There was little demand for the 1922-S Peace dollar when it was issued. Bags released in later years were not examined for high-grade examples, so fewer exist today than otherwise might.
Almost no one considers the 1922-S Peace dollar as one of the better dates in the series
‘Pennies’ for ID
What are Masonic pennies?
Masonic “pennies” are actually medals identifying the individual as a member of the Masons. Most of these identify the Masonic lodge and the member. The concept of a medal as a membership card likely began at a time the Masons were a clandestine society
Viewpoint: Where you stay during conventions matters
(Image courtesy www.centralstates.info/)
By Kevin Foley
I read with interest your recent blog commentary on the issue of hotel room pickup as a factor in decision making by convention centers as to whom and when they will offer their facilities to
Many a calendar page has turned
My goodness, where has the year gone? This is the last paper issue of 2017. Next week will see an electronic issue put together. Then comes the Jan
Mint Statistics: Silver bullion Eagles beat September
November silver Eagle sales have inched past the September figure and now stand at 385,000 pieces. September sales of 320,000 remain as the lowest monthly total for 2017. Perhaps December will nudge September aside? We’ll see
South liked hard money after Civil War
Were silver dollars popular only in the West in the latter part of the 1800s?
A point often overlooked in the annals of this unloved and mostly unwanted coin was that it did enjoy a period of popularity after the Civil War in the South for at least two reasons. Most of the emancipated slaves were illiterate and on that account refused paper money in any form. The memory of the worthless paper money of the Confederacy was still fresh in the minds of everyone so the metal dollars took on a special importance, but one that would not last
Cent questions have staying power
How many generations of cent emails will I get? I ask that question after nearly a year of emails relating to 2017’s newly discovered Lincoln rarities.
The Jan. 3 issue of Numismatic News reported the discovery of a 1982-D small date copper cent
Mint Statistics: Clad proof set shows strong gains
Did you miss Mint Statistics while it was gone? I hope so, though I did receive one email in recent months saying these pages are a waste of space. All the other emails wondered where the figures had gone. Thanks for your continuing interest
1949-S Roosevelt dime an affordable key
The 1949-S Roosevelt dime did not draw much attention at the time of its release, resulting in a smaller number being put aside by collectors. (Image courtesy www.usacoinbook
Ikes at face value
(Image courtesy www.apmex.com)
Is there a premium value for common date copper-nickel Eisenhower dollars?
I found several Internet websites where bulk lots of circulated common date Eisenhower dollars are selling for a modest premium
Viewpoint: Many say Mint prices are excessive
A year ago, the U.S. Mint held its first Numismatic Forum in Philadelphia, with perhaps 55 invited guests in attendance
When will China buy American coins?
I stumbled on some interesting information while I was in China. A speaker estimated that there are 750,000 to almost 1.4 million buyers of gold and silver coins in China
1864 boasts trio of Indian Head cents
Shown here is the 1864L type of Indian Head cent struck in bronze, which features an “L” in the ribbon behind the obverse figure’s hair. A second bronze and a copper-nickel type also exist.
Three types of Indian Head cents exist for 1864, and one of them may well be a sleeper
Coin’s appeal in eye of beholder
I hear a lot about eye appeal. There are standards for such things as the depth of a mirror surface and for frosted devices. Are there any standards for eye appeal?
Although certification services usually consider eye appeal as a component of the condition for a Mint State or proof, realistically eye appeal impacts the desirability of every coin
Viewpoint: Time to bring money up to speed
By Bill Tuttle
In reply to “Vachon’s” Viewpoint/commentary in the Nov. 7 issue of Numismatic News, I can answer (or make a suggestion) to his question: “… so why not $10, $5 and $2 coins?” Why not, indeed! But instead of a $2 coin, why not bring back the old quarter eagle ($2.50), half eagle ($5) and eagle ($10) coins like when we were first minting our own coins in the 1790s
Just what is the perfect coin gift?
Should the United States issue a Christmas coin in a manner similar to the post office issuing Christmas stamps?
This question comes up each year about this time. I ask it again because it is time for us to prepare the annual Holiday Gift Guide.
There will be nothing from the United States mentioned among the new issues
Proof coinage move not part of plan
Wasn’t the present Philadelphia Mint (the fourth, constructed in 1969) intended to continue proof coinage?
Up until then, the Philadelphia Mint had struck almost all the proof coins issued. However, the coin shortage, capped with the failure of the roller-die press, caused a change in plans. The Special Mint Set production had already been shifted to San Francisco, which also had successfully struck proof coins for Panama
Mint conducts a ‘Liberty’ experiment
I often rank Mint offerings by dollar amount earned as a proxy for popularity.
My supposition is that if collectors spend $20 million instead of $10 million, they are twice as happy.
It is in this vein that I have been playing around with numbers generated by three Mint offerings of pieces with Miss Liberty as an African-American
1855-S half was first from San Francisco
In addition to its importance as the first half dollar struck at the San Francisco Mint, the 1885-S Seated Liberty half dollar was also the only San Francisco half struck with arrows at the date.
There are a lot of interesting Seated Liberty half dollars. High on that list has to be the 1855-S, which is both historically important and a much more difficult coin than might be expected
Viewpoint: More grades needed for copper
(Image courtesy www.pcgs.com)
By Scott Casey
We are all aware of the significant differences in the amount of red coloring remaining on vintage copper coins
Precious metal coins the way to go
When you place your order for the 2018-W proof silver American Eagle come Jan. 4, 2018, don’t think you are done. The Mint will not let you off so easily
1913-S Barber has no place to go but up
Despite having the lowest mintage for regular-date silver coins of the 20th century, the 1913-S Barber quarter is neither the most expensive silver coin nor the key date of the Barber series.
Just call it an unrecognized rarity. While expensive and desirable, the 1913-S Barber quarter does not get the attention it deserves, especially as the lowest-mintage, regular-date silver coin of the 20th century
Old slabs worth more
(Image courtesy www.ngccoin.com)
I understand coins housed in some of the older third-party certification service holders are worth more than are others of the same grade
Viewpoint: Change never came to U.S. money
I would like to know why people tolerate the production of coins with no purchasing power. Talk from old-time collectors shows how coins were once useful in the economy, but (and especially) since the 1970s, their purchasing power has eroded considerably. This erosion has not led to the production of coins (and cessation of corresponding paper money) that do have purchasing power
We should all salute Baltimore show
Whatever the future might bring for coin shows, there are a few that are so important that I cannot imagine the commercial hobby without them.
One of these is the Baltimore show. Actually, there are three Baltimore Whitman Expos each year
Surviving supply of 1960 halves is limited
An initial lack of interest, combined with a rush to cash in silver coins for a high melt price, has left a limited supply of the 1960 Franklin half dollar. (Image courtesy www.usacoinbook
Grades multiplied over years
How did we go from Morgan silver dollars simply being graded uncirculated to our convoluted Mint State-60 to MS-70 plus additional stickers system?
The numerical system began with grades MS-60, MS-63, and MS-65. By the mid-1980s, it became obvious this was a “one size (actually three sizes) fits all” policy that didn’t work. There were coins that were better than one grade, but not as nice as the next grade
Viewpoint: It’s all about those mintage, population numbers
When I was a kid, I learned that rarity and condition were the two factors that determined value.
Very old coins could be common because they are numerous. Modern coins can be rare because few were made, or the mintage was melted
It might be time to worry – or not
I was conversing with a dealer from the national circuit the other day about the seemingly slow start to the 2017 autumn collecting season.
He is earning his living, but he has nothing to write home about.
I can write the same thing
Numerous overdates in GSA sale
How many of the 80/79 and 8/7 overdates were included in the GSA sales of the 1880-CC dollars?
Out of the 131,000+ 1880-CC dollars, about 50,000 were overdate varieties. Slightly more than 15,000 of those were the VAM-4 variety of the 80/79.
I have a Spanish Carolus IIII 2 reales coin, but it is not listed under that country
Palladium bullion coin hard to peg
Is the 2017 one-ounce palladium American Eagle a bullion coin that some collectors will happen to collect?
Or, is the new coin, with a mintage of just 15,000, destined to be solely a collector coin?
Right now, I don’t think the new coin has yet had an impact on the thoughts of many collectors. Officially, it is a bullion coin. The collector proof version does not arrive until 2018
Community Voice Responses (Oct. 24, 2017)
From the Sept. 29 Numismatic News E-Newsletter:
Are American gold coins now a good buy?
Here are some answers sent from our e-newsletter readers to Editor Dave Harper.
In my opinion the answer to this question will depend on an individual’s preferences
Mint Statistics: Let’s look at bullion and proof sets
Bullion coins have made a slow start in October. Gold Buffaloes put 1,000 pieces on the board. On the bright side, this number is two-thirds of the 1,500 sold in all of September
1885 Seated Liberty half tough but available
A wave of concern over appearances that the Mint was intentionally creating rarities led to more 1885 half dollars being struck than were needed, even though mintages are considered low today.
When is a rarity not a rarity? The answer might well be a coin like the 1885 Seated Liberty half dollar. While certainly a tough and valuable coin, it is actually more available than its very low mintage would suggest
Where does the ‘Clinic’ column appear?
Currently the Coin Clinic column is being published only in Numismatic News (and perhaps World Coin News?), but not in Coins magazine. When was the last time such a column was present in Coins? Also, does Bank Note Reporter have an equivalent Clinic-like column?
The “Coin Clinic” column appeared in Coins magazine until the death of Alan Herbert in 2013. That is the same year I took over the column in both Numismatic News and World Coin News
Get that small-town feeling with coins
Downtown Iola, Wis.
When I walk down the street here in Iola, Wis., people say hello
Mint Statistics: Palladium debuts on expensive side
The price of palladium now exceeds that of platinum. Unless I have missed something, this is the first time since 2001 this has happened. While this was going on, the Mint began selling its first palladium bullion coins
Only one owner for 1794 dollars
1794 dollar obverse (Image courtesy www.usacoinbook.com)
Is it true that all 1794 dollars passed through the hands of a single owner?
It’s true
Mistakes can be fun and ‘profitable’
What is the point of buying the new palladium bullion American Eagle coin if we don’t think about what might happen to it in the future?
I recently met a reader who said he really loved my column. He began reading it when I made forecasts for the future. He said in the first one he had read I was mostly wrong
Enhanced set makes another advance
Is it worth a headline to point out that the United States Mint sold 2,367 Enhanced Uncirculated Coin Sets this week compared to 1,390 last week? It will have to do, because the rest of the Mint’s product line is a yawner. The running tally for the set is now 193,573, which is still a far cry from the 225,000 maximum.
Silver proof sets outpaced the clad for another week
Time near for 1884 Trade dollar to shine
Although only 10 examples of the 1884 Trade dollar are known, it has long lived in the shadow of the even rarer 1885. Just five examples of that date are known to exist.
A little mystery tends to help a great rarity
Cents look like copper coating is missing
Last week while searching through penny rolls, I found six pennies that have a pure zinc look to them. No copper coating at all. I have found very little information on this
Viewpoint: Many friends remember Colin Bruce
Colin R. Bruce II
By Richard Lobel
Today I heard of the death of one of the true giants of numismatics, Colin R. Bruce II
Never got one of these in change
(Image courtesy www.mintproducts.com)
I received an interesting quarter in my lunch change this week
Mint Statistics: Silver proof sets at top of buyer’s lists
When it comes to 2017 proof sets, buyers preferred the silver version this week over the clad. Sales rose by 11,131 silver sets, double the 5,541 clad gain. However, overall clad proof set sales are handsomely ahead for the year, 357,619 to 235,430
Horn measures wear on Buffalo
How do I tell whether my Buffalo nickel is a “full” or “quarter” horn? Is this some kind of grade like “full steps?”
It is not a grade but a visual check of the condition of the coin, or a key area to check for wear. To determine the amount of horn remaining, you either need an uncirculated coin or a good picture of one to compare the amount of horn detail or outline remaining. An uncirculated, fully struck coin will have a full horn, with the entire outline showing
My handwriting sets off a reader
Ever wonder what will happen as schools stop teaching cursive handwriting? I just had a taste of the possible results.
Funny, though, this experience came in correspondence with an older gentleman. It all began with a letter to me from him that began with a statement that he did not use a computer
Mint Statistics: Bullion coin buyers take their time
Bullion coin sales began the month of September very slowly. With bullion moving higher, it is a puzzle as to the reason. Just 25,000 silver American Eagles were sold and 2,000 one-ounce gold Eagles
1918-S one of best Buffalo branch-mint nickels
More available than expected in lower grades, tougher than expected in Mint State and rare in the highest grades, the 1918-S Buffalo nickel appeals to collectors on many different levels.
The 1918-S Buffalo nickel is one of the best of a very good group that is many times overlooked. At a price of $13,250 today in MS-65 condition, it certainly is one of the best of the branch-mint nickels from the teens and 1920s
Why not a West Point cent to go with 2017-P?
West Point Mint facility
Will there be any 2017-W Lincoln cents made for general circulation with an explicit “W,” or will such cents be misleadingly minted as 2017-P like the Philly ones? What act of Congress forced the “P” into 2017-P cents?
The West Point Mint facility hasn’t struck Lincoln cents since 1986. West Point currently strikes proof and uncirculated bullion coins as well as some commemoratives. The addition of mintmarks and other design modifications are at the discretion of the Mint
Viewpoint: Aversion to cleaned coins irrational
By Frank S. Robinson
Jim Klein (“Viewpoint,” June 17) is retiring from coins at 77 and offers advice to those still collecting. What comes through loudest is a phobia about cleaned coins, which he basically calls worthless
Wait until hype is over and then buy
The Forecaster is an investment newsletter than I have kept my eye on since 1969. John Kamin writes it from his base in Southern California.
Longevity in the investment advisory business means that people find enough value in the advice to keep paying for it
Mint Statistics: Time to tell the Ellis Island story again
The Ellis Island 5-ounce silver bullion coin went on the board below at 39,500. That is nearly double the number of the prior two designs. The story of Ellis Island has inspired collectors for years
Government was speedy in 1964
(Image courtesy www.usacoinbook.com)
I’m told that the Kennedy half was one of the speediest pieces of government action in history
Coins can provide mini-vacations
Everybody needs a vacation. Getting away and recharging the mental and physical batteries is important.
But not everyone has the budget to go on an exotic trek through the Himalayas, or even to relax at a lakeside cottage
Two clubs can show us how to do it
Two coin clubs in New York marked their 1,000th meetings just months apart. (Read more here and here.)
What a milestone it is to have achieved such longevity
Key 1877 three cents had low, proof-only mintage
While the 1877 copper-nickel three-cent piece had a proof-only mintage of just 900 coins, they were saved by collectors, and a high percentage survive today in Proof-65 condition or better.
There is little doubt that the 1877 Coronet Head three-cent piece is the key to the copper-nickel three-cent set. Interestingly enough, the date, which was issued only as a proof, is neither well known nor that expensive
Mint Statistics: Up or down? Platinum Eagle confuses
The mystery this week is posed by the 2017-W proof platinum American Eagle. According to the latest figures from the Mint, the sales number dropped by 209 to 9,017. Maximum mintage is 10,000
1873 Trade dollar is often overlooked
A mintage on the lower side, plus a small number of surviving examples graded MS-65 or higher, results in a relatively good deal on what might otherwise be considered an average date.
Trade dollars tend to be overlooked, and the 1873 tends to be more overlooked than most. It was the very first Trade dollar, a fact that should get it some attention
Viewpoint: Leon took time for buyers big and small
Leon Hendrickson
By Bob Bair
I was saddened to learn of the recent death of Leon Hendrickson. Like so many others who came into contact with Leon through the years, warm memories of the wonderful person that Leon was remain for me.
One of those memories occurred at a Milwaukee Coin Show in the spring of 1988, shortly after the birth of my only son
Who can save proof and mint sets?
Dave Motl, Acting Deputy Director of the U.S. Mint
The Mint was very kind to arrange a half-hour interview for me with Dave Motl, the Acting Deputy Director
Mint Statistics: Dreaming of palladium or just asleep?
This is apparently the week that the market is dreaming about the Mint’s new one-ounce palladium bullion coin. Why? Looking at the sales numbers for gold and silver, it has to be asleep.
But buyers are definitely not awake to collector issues, either
Some coins had favorite locations
Is there any truth to the story that back when coins were real silver they tended to congregate in certain cities?
They really did. Old records of the Federal Reserve shows that prior to the switch to clad coins, the half dollars collected in New York City and Atlantic City; cents in Pittsburgh and Dallas; quarters in San Antonio, Little Rock and Cincinnati; and both dimes and nickels headed for home in Baltimore, Louisville and Nashville. These cities were the ones likely to return coins to the Fed, rather than just drawing them, and the pattern repeated for many years
Yes, I am bugging out to Denver
(Image courtesy www.money.org/)
While this issue is being produced, many hobbyists are in Denver to see what excitement the American Numismatic Association World’s Fair of Money can produce
Price does not always reflect importance
While the Los Angeles Olympics silver dollar of 1983 can currently be purchased for $25 or less, its historical value in paving the way for modern commemorative coins is priceless.
As time passes, the Los Angeles Olympics silver dollar commemorative of 1983 receives less and less attention. That may be a natural consequence, but this is one coin that should not be forgotten
Morgan dollar varieties have colorful names
(Image courtesy www.vamworld.com)
Is there a Morgan dollar variety known as ‘scarface?’
The 1888-O VAM 1B variety is known as “scarface
Viewpoint: Political parties prevent debt elimination
Federal Reserve Chairman Janet Yellen
By V. Kurt Bellman
Once again, in his recent piece in the July 21 e-newsletter entitled “Safer with gold, silver,” Mr. Patrick Heller correctly identifies the problems facing the intermediate term American economy
Errors still spark dreams of riches
The Small Date 1982-D copper cent (above) shows the “2” quite a bit further from the rim than the Large Date version. (For visual comparison to the Large Date, click the link to images of the large and small date below.)
If a local coin show wants to generate huge traffic, all it will have to do is set up a table to evaluate 1982-D small date cents
Mint Statistics: Not the time to buy commemoratives
Remember the Lions Club silver dollar? Buyers didn’t this week, either. The Mint sold 86 proofs and 24 uncirculateds. The Boys Town results were slightly larger, but not so large to make it worthwhile to cite the figures
Error nicknames date back years
(Image courtesy www.usacoinbook.com)
I know that fanciful names were popular for minting varieties in the 1960s and that different type coin designs have been nicknamed, but were there similar slang terms for die breaks on older coins?
There are numerous examples in the old listings
Canadian note gives me an idea
Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance and Stephen S. Poloz, Governor of the Bank of Canada, at the June unveiling of the new $10 note.
Canada has issued a special commemorative $10 note to celebrate its 150th anniversary
Mint Statistics: Doldrums nothin’ – let’s go backward
If you think some numbers are going backward, you are right. They are. Various items were reduced since the last time this column was published two weeks ago
Interesting story behind 1864 Indian Head cent trio
A composition change from copper-nickel to bronze, plus a pointed bust variety of the latter that includes the designer’s initial, resulted in three different Indian Head cents for the year 1864.
The Indian Head cents of 1864 are a very interesting and historic group. As you may have guessed from the word “group,” there is more than one
Identical marks on coins evidence of fakes
I have two About Uncirculated gold $20 double eagles, same date and mint mark, each with what appears to be identical contact marks on the obverse. What are the chances of this being legitimate, or do I more likely have fakes?
You are wise to be suspicious. I can’t make a judgment without seeing the coins, but it is highly suspect when two coins have contact marks that are identical
Viewpoint: Don’t forget to check the reverse
Doubling is evident in the engraver’s initials on this Shield cent reverse.
By Ken Potter
As I was writing a story about an error cent, it occurred to me that most of the stories I’ve written in recent months revolved around checking the obverse of a coin for the date to see if it was a 1982-D Small Date, a 1983 or 1983-D Lincoln cent that needed to be weighed to see if it was struck on a solid copper ally planchet in error, or the discovery of a new significant doubled die on a 1944 cent showing best on the date, or my story on the 1968-S proof half dollar with an inverted “S” mintmark; all appearing within the last few months.
Going back to last year in January of 2016, I covered the discovery of a beautiful 2015 doubled die Lincoln cent that was discovered in November of 2015 that showed its strongest doubling on the date
Error coins guaranteed to please
It is too bad that the Combined Organizations of Numismatic Error Collectors of America doesn’t have more members.
Is it the long name? Does that intimidate?
Members call it CONECA for short.
I have been privileged to share a meal with members at the annual American Numismatic Association World’s Fair of Money in years past
Game counters look like old coins
What can you tell me about a coin that appears to be a mule of an Argentine coin and a U.S. gold quarter eagle? It’s been in the family for many years
Pause to remember Chet Krause
Chester L. Krause
Numismatic News founder Chester L. Krause was remembered at a short ceremony July 6 at the Iola, Wis
Mint Statistics: Proof sets lead a slow moving pack
Clad proof sets and silver proof sets are the most interesting Mint products this week. Sales of the 2017 clad set advanced by 7,654. At the same time, silver sets climbed by 6,148
1799 Bust dollar surprisingly available in Mint State
A heavy mintage for the time helped to make the 1799 today’s most available Bust dollar in Mint State condition.
In almost every set of U.S
What’s Nixon got to do with silver dollars?
Richard M. Nixon
Can you explain the term “Nixon dollars?”
An inscription and facsimile signature of President Richard M. Nixon appears inside the lid of the black and blue cardboard boxes in which Carson City minted Morgan silver dollars were sold by the General Service Administration
Viewpoint: Internet holds troves of info for collectors
One of the author’s recent online discoveries was the Newman Numismatic Portal.
I once believed the expression “there is nothing new under the sun” as I often caught myself starting to repeat a topic in one of my columns that I had recently covered. After reading some posts on one of the Internet forums last week, I realized that is not the case with numismatics as there is plenty of new information for those who seek it
Search your cents to inspire others
A waitress at the Crystal Cafe is watching her cents. I can’t take any credit for it. I became aware of it when I had my usual Monday lunch with Clifford Mishler
Mint Statistics: June avoids having lowest Eagle sales
One-ounce silver American Eagle coin sales have reached 911,000 for the month of June a couple of days before the end of the month. Will they pass one million? Whether they do or not, the important thing is June sales of 911,000 exceed the 835,000 sold in April. April will keep its title as the lowest silver Eagle bullion sales month of 2017
1898-S Barber quarter tough in top grades
Fewer 1898-S Barber quarters are available in top grades than might be thought based on mintage.
Finding a coin everyone has overlooked is fun. It does not happen often, because coin prices tend to be a very accurate reflection of the availability of most issues
Two dollar designs in 1921 seem strange
(Image courtesy www.usacoinbook.com)
It seems rather strange the Peace dollar was introduced very late in 1921, rather than waiting until 1922
Viewpoint: It’s time we ‘make coins great again’
By Wayne Pearson
This is in response to the letter by William Tuttle, “Get rid of the cent and paper dollar for good,” published in the June 13 issue.
I couldn’t disagree more with this Viewpoint. America needs to think out of the box instead of discontinuing our way of life by eliminating the cent and the dollar
Reassess your coins for cash boost
If you are like most collectors, you have been putting coins away for years. You also have a few regrets about coins that got away, or coins you never got around to purchasing.
Why not use the summer months to plan to change it up come the fall?
Resolve to buy that coin that you let get away
Mint Statistics: Newly released silver proofs beat clad
Silver proof sets of 2017 moved ahead by 14,358 to reach 189,082. The performance was good enough to beat the increase in the clad proof set number. It rose 8,922 to 285,471