Official "Post A Counterstamp" Thread....

Regarding attribution .... Some years ago, I rebuilt an earlier database, for my collection. One of the updates was the addition of a field that addresses attribution. I'm constantly researching and updating information for each record/counterstamp in all of 20 fields. I've owned some of these counterstamps for forty years. It's an ongoing process.

I call this attribution field the P-scale or PROOF scale. It ranges from 0-4. Whereas a "0" is a stamp that's likely to never be attributed, a "4" is a stamp for which "Proof Positive" exists. This scale helps me focus better upon pieces that have higher potential for attribution; this, while scrolling through my database of 2,500+ pieces.

0 = Maverick that will likely never be attributed (e.g. - numerals, simple initials)
1 = Possible - Three or more possible issuers (e.g. - found in directories and elsewhere)
2 = Potential - Two strong potential issuers
3 = Probable - One likely issuer (e.g. - lacking a match on a product or "clue" on another host coin)
4 = Positive - A conclusive attribution that's totally provable

This P-scale gives me a mindset to focus on levels 2 and 3. I more so focus on level 3, seeking "Proof Positive." For example, I seek out matching silversmith hallmarks on spoons, gunsmith maker marks on firearms, cutler marks on knives or other cutting tools, etc.

I never seem to lose interest in this more dynamic approach to collecting. The upside is making discoveries, solving mysteries; this, by pegging a probable or, better yet, a positive counterstamp attribution.

I only have one counterstamp that I researched and attributed. It was from the B.A.M. Co. Someone who worked at the tool making company must have been bored and pulled this LWC out of their pocket and stamped away.





After scouring the web I finally ran across these hand punches one day on ebay.

@chafemastej .... Fine job of attribution!

If the matching tool isn't too expensive, I'd consider buying it as a go-along. It's great to have the pic though. Perhaps, you can add some history to your attribution?

@Exoguy.... I did purchase the tools at the time.

Also, excellent attribution system you developed for yourself.
Very mindful. Keeps things moving efficiently.

@captainrich .... These look like modern fantasies; though a different seller than the bogus CSA seller.

Over the years, whether a novice or a seasoned numismatist, I've seen collectors, dealers and ebay sellers, alike, fooled by modern, fantasy counterstamps. On the heels of Rulau's token books, back in the eighties, counterstamped coins gained long overdue recognition in the numismatic community. Along came Brunk. Increasing prices realized at auctions spurred the production of fakes or fantasy pieces. Typically, these fakes were produced with individual letter punches, and they're easily recognized. Rulau and Brunk illustrated some of the fakes, and their classic books are essential.

Some years ago, I attended a show in North Carolina. There was a dealer who had an interesting counterstamp in his case. It was not for sale, just for show. I struck up a conversation with him, asking about the piece which was a "logo punch" that illustrated a name, address and town (details long forgotten); this, the entire legend struck with but a single punch. He asked me, if it was for sale, what I'd pay for it. I said that it looked early, but I didn't recognize it and would, absent research, but take a shot at $15. The dealer said he'd been offered far more than that, yet he complimented me, saying he stamped the coin, a large cent, with an antique punch. He enjoyed showing this piece in order to make collectors wary. Lesson learned ....

1890 C.D. Stamped IHC...