1833 Half Cent - Physical Characteristic Tolerances

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Author	Replies: 5 / Views: 1,014
Buffalo78 New Member United States 43 Posts	Posted 07/07/2020 07:45 am I just acquired an 1833 Half Cent in around VF condition. I am a little OCD when it comes to checking weight and dimensions. This is the first Half Cent I have acquired which exceeds the mint specification of 5.44 grams. It is weighing in at 5.59 grams (103%.) Based on my data I would expect that coin in VF to weigh around 5.35-5.40. My scale is pretty good and I have used the same scale to collect all weights so comparison should be relative. Also diameter is a bit on the high side at 23.75 however I have an 1828 that measures the same and I believe the specification lists the diameter at "approx." 23.5 mm. Most of my collection runs around 23.5-23.6. Curious is anyone thinks the extra weight is a red-flag or if mint tolerances on the old coppers varied a bit for the planchets? I will try and get some pictures of the coin to post this evening. I have return privileges on the coin so I can return if necessary. Thanks Report this Post to the Staff

kanga Pillar of the Community United States 5825 Posts	Posted 07/07/2020 08:30 am Report this Post to the Staff
Ariette Valued Member United States 295 Posts	Posted 07/07/2020 08:36 am I don't think that a slight weight difference alone is enough to say for certain whether the coin is bad, as copper coins are not going to be subject to the same strict tolerances as silver and gold coins. If everything else checks out, I wouldn't worry about it. Report this Post to the Staff
Buffalo78 New Member United States 43 Posts	Posted 07/07/2020 09:25 am OK, here are the sellers pics. They are pretty dark. Report this Post to the Staff
Conder101 Bedrock of the Community United States 17884 Posts	Posted 07/07/2020 10:09 pm There isn't an "official" tolerance for the 1833 Half Cents, the official tolerance didn't start til the act of 1837. That standard was +/- .227 grams. If since the official weight didn't change if you apply the 1837 tolerance that would allow an upper weight of 5.667 grams Report this Post to the Staff
Buffalo78 New Member United States 43 Posts	Posted 07/08/2020 07:25 am So here are two much better pictures at my coin table with some lighting. Much better than the seller's pics. I appreciate the insight Conder. I believe there was only one die set for the 1833. The reverse diagnostics check out to me. Overall I am pleased with the coin for the price. I did not see any flags other than being slightly overweight. I think I am looking at a F obverse and VF reverse. Report this Post to the Staff
	Replies: 5 / Views: 1,014

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