Counter Stamped 1888 Liberty Nickel W/Environmental Damage

Excellent!

Follow the polarity ladder.

Sweet!!!

Being a longtime collector of coins and counterstamps, I highly recommend mildly cleaning/conserving coins like this nickel. I use a product called Coin Care.

Counterstamped coins are already damaged, so cleaning or conservation is not a sin. A repeated, gentle swabbing to lift the verdigris from the stamped crevaces is recommended. Then, let the coin dry before storage.

Here's a POSSIBLE explanation for this capital "G" c/s ... In Freemasonry, the letter "G" (always capitalized) is a deeply symbolic centerpiece commonly placed between the square and compasses. While meanings vary, it universally represents two pillars of the fraternity: God (the Grand Architect of the Universe) and Geometry.

Of the now more than 3,000 c/s's in my collection, I'd estimate that at least half of them have some Masonic connection to their history. I've been able to make direct connections to Masons in at least 25% of the stampings that I've researched. This Masonic influence is the singlemost common factor behind the counterstamping of 19th century American coins; this, having been my focus of study.

Finally, there is admittedly no proof of intent apparent behing the stamping of the subject, 1888 nickel. It could have been produced as a pocket piece, a test stamp or any number of other motivations. Still, IMHO, the odds favor some Masonic connection of sorts.