I just bought on Ebay what was advertised as a 1-ounce silver bullion coin. It has a toothed edge but has a copper-colored streak like clad coins. Could this be an altered Kennedy half dollar instead?
2007-11-08 12:37:00 · 5 answers · asked by Michael S 2 in Games & Recreation ➔ Hobbies & Crafts
Couldn't tell you without pictures.
1 - Take your coin to a local coin dealer (trustworthy ones can be found - shop around). It never hurts to get a second opinion. They will be able to tell you so much more by evaluation the condition of the coins. They will also know the amount minted and what it is going for in today's market.
2 - Try posting pictures on this website (there are many experts here that can help you evaluate it - there also may be people willing to buy if you are trying to sell):
http://www.coincommunity.com/forum/default.asp
3 - Repost this question and include pictures. You can use websites like http://www.photobucket.com and include the link in your question.
Good luck!
P.S. You should not clean your coins. Most coin collectors see cleaning a coin as the equivalent of stripping down antique furniture and refinishing it.
When cleaning, the surface metal of the coin is often stripped. Anything used to scrub the coin will leave scratches (even 100% pure silk will leave hairline scratches). Most cleaning products will have some type of reaction with the coin's metal and the surface metal can also be removed in this manner.
Your best bet is to leave the coins alone. Cleaning the coin will leave traces - which can be found by the knowledgeable collector - who in turn will not buy the cleaned coin. Also if you ever wanted to send your coin into a grading company, they can recognize signs of cleaning and will send your coin back in a "cleaned" slab (also called a "body bag" in the coin world) - which is usually a greatly decreased value.
If you absolutely must must must clean your coins do not use the method described above as it will react with the metal in your coin. Use 100% acetone (do not use fingernail polish remover!). It must be 100% pure because other additives will react with the coin metal. Place your coin(s) in the solution for several minutes (do not leave in for long periods of time). Rinse your coin(s) in distilled water. Next remove your coins and either pat dry with a soft cloth or allow the coin to air dry (air drying is better as you don't risk scratching the coin with the cloth). NEVER scrub your coins!
I would still advise you to leave your coins as they are. They may not be bright and shiny but that is what most collectors prefer.
2007-11-09 09:08:59 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Would need to see a picture of it to be sure. Is it Half Dollar sized? Is it a government issued bullion coin (US or other country)? Most government issued bullion coins are bigger than half dollars and have little to no copper in them depending on which country made them.
Sometimes tarnish can effect the edge of a silver coin, so streaking doesn't automatically indicate that is isn't real.
Best bet it to have a local dealer check it out for you or post some pictures on-line to have someone help you be certain.
2007-11-09 05:16:21 · answer #2 · answered by Chris 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I would have to see it. A Kennedy 1/2 is no where near the size of a one ounce bullion coin. What is on the obverse and reverse? Now for the edge it is called reeding so has a reeded edge. You could take it to a coin dealer. I would have to see both sides as well as the edge.
2007-11-09 08:25:18 · answer #3 · answered by Taiping 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Buying gold and silver in coins or bullion is the best investment choice. It furthers is widely known as a safe haven for future, during emergencies. Every investor must include Gold and Silver investment in his portfolio, to add value and safety.
2016-05-28 21:12:28 · answer #4 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You were probably sold a 40% silver Kennedy half. You probably got screwed on it, too.
2007-11-12 09:41:15 · answer #5 · answered by bbooptoon1959 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋