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 Replies: 9 / Views: 2,494 |
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New Member
United States
2 Posts |
I just recently picked up an 1892 Columbian Expo half dollar from a large and reputable online coin dealer which I have used many times in the past with no issues. The coin in question was advertised as being in "nice uncirculated" condition, however, immediately upon inspecting it, I noticed several hairline scratches on the obverse, directly to the right of Columbus' face. There are also scratches evident on the reverse of the coin near the top sail directly under the letters "bian" in Columbian and the letters "exp" in Exposition. I know it is difficult to see them in the photo, but they are definitely there. I have been a collector on and off for a few years, so my knowledge is nowhere near as advanced as most members on this board, but am I correct in assuming that these scratches are indicative of harsh cleaning? Please forgive my photographs, I know the quality is not the greatest, but I believe they show what I am talking about. If more photos are needed, please let me know. Thanks for your help!   |
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Pillar of the Community
United States
3843 Posts |
Definitely cleaned. Are you able to return it for a refund?
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Pillar of the Community
Canada
5417 Posts |
Oh yeah, it's cleabed. The devices look frosty too so possibly polished. You should ask for a refund/return.
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Pillar of the Community
Korea, Republic Of
1881 Posts |
No doubt it's been cleaned, wiped with a polishing cloth or something. You are right about hairlines being all on the surfaces. It'd be unethical for the dealer to not give you a full refund. I'd never buy anyting from that seller again.
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Pillar of the Community
United States
898 Posts |
I wouldn't call those hairlines... they seem pretty harsh. Nice looking coin, but obviously cleaned.
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CCF Master Historian of USA Commemoratives
 United States
12271 Posts |
As others have stated, the coin does appear to have been "wiped" in the past in an attempt to improve its appearance.
It's a little hard to tell because of the lighting used, but the coin does appear to have nice remaining detail. If it didn't have the fine lines noted, it would likely grade a nice AU.
Collecting history one coin or medal at a time! (c) commems. All rights reserved.
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Moderator
United States
15420 Posts |
Concur with a wiping ... nice coin overall.
Hopeful that you maintain an interest in the classic silver commemorative series ... 50 type coins filled with history and wonderful numismatic stories.
David
Take a look at my other hobby ... http://www.jk-dk.art |
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New Member
 United States
2 Posts |
Thanks for the information everybody, I really appreciate the quick replies. It's unfortunate that the coin was cleaned, but the company that I purchased it from has a very good return policy, so I will be promptly sending it back. I guess that's what you get for purchasing raw coins sight unseen. And nickelsearcher, I will absolutely keep an interest in the classic silver commemorative series, it is among my very favorite. This is just a small setback.
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Moderator
United States
15420 Posts |
Quote:
I will absolutely keep an interest in the classic silver commemorative series, it is among my very favorite. This is just a small setback. Good for you ... this is a tremendous series of USA coinage that is perhaps under-appreciated by the mainstream collecting body. There are many experts on the series here at the CCF ... I encourage you to engage them for input and of course to share any new acquisitions. Hopeful to be able to support your growth in these special coins. David Take a look at my other hobby ... http://www.jk-dk.art |
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Pillar of the Community
United States
899 Posts |
That's really too bad - because it looks like it was a very nice coin. Like others mentioned, even cleaned it was a real nice example of the coin.
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Replies: 9 / Views: 2,494 |
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Posted 08/05/2014 12:27 am
