1797 Large Cent

Very nice Draped Bust Large Cent with close to EF details. The reverse looks lightly struck and there is some corrosion but it's still a very valuable coin. If you got for under $300 it was a rip.

If familiar with copper conservation, that piece could use a little help to preserve it.

Actually purchased it for $65 so your making me very happy. What exactly could I do to help preserve it?

Even though you only paid $65 for the coin, I would consider sending it to NCS for conservation because it's worth at least 10 times that amount.

There are numerous methods used to conserve copper coins. The obverse looks like some verdigris is present and that needs to be removed. You'd also want to prevent any further corrosion and I have used several different products that put a thin layer of lubricant on the surfaces. Protection from humidity is a must and desiccants work well for this purpose.

Do NOT attempt anything yourself though. This is a very valuable coin that should only be conserved by a person with extensive knowledge and experience with copper coinage. It is also well worth slabbing and NCS (Numismatic Conservation Services) is second to none in the field. Click here for more info: http://www.ncscoin.com/index.asp

Good Luck and to CCF!

XF45 details. NCS would be an excellent suggestion although, I have never submitted a coin for conservation so I am not sure of their costs. I agree with bherring1964. He has given you some great advice. IMO, it's nice enough to conserve even though there are signs of a cleaning. Great pickup!