A few years back, I came across a Roanoke half dollar that immediately struck me as being "off." After a bit of inspection, it became clear it was a copy and not an original. It's not a horrible copy - if you only give the coin a quick glance (I've seen worse!) - but even a cursory examination will yield its multiple deviations from a genuine coin.
Genuine 1937 Roanoke Half Dollar
Image courtesy of PCGS Coin Facts, http://www.PCGS.com/coinfactsTo point out just a few of the issues present...
- Poor and incorrect detail in Raleigh's hair and beard on the obverse.
- Mistaken shapes and serifs on multiple letters in the various obverse inscriptions; the letter "R" seemed to present a strong challenge for the "artist."
- Poor level of detail throughout the depiction of Elinor Dare on the reverse; it could just be the artificial toning/aging applied to the piece, but the eyes of Virginia Dare make her look like an alien baby rather than a human!
- As on the obverse, the reverse has multiple font issues/discrepancies in its various inscriptions.
- Clear differences in the leaves/branches of the pine sapling to the right of Elinor (viewer's perspective) on reverse.
Pieces like this one make it very important to remember...
When buying raw coins - especially from internet sellers on auction sites - make sure to take the time to compare what is being offered against a coin known to be a genuine example (e.g., a coin in a PCGS/NGC/ANACS holder). As the old saying goes, if the deal seems too good to be true, it most likely isn't. Keep your collection - and wallet - safe!
Read More: Commems Collection
Posted 10/16/2020 6:16 pm
