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Posted 08/18/2006 9:18 pm
Toning has its place within the many specialties of numismatics. Collectors who want something which is different badly enough will pay a premium over "normal" coins. Look at all those interested in errors, varieties (especially VAMs), Cuds, die breaks, offsets, double-dies, etc. Toned coins are just one more variety.
But, therein lies the problem. Fraudsters abound, take notice of the varieties which bring in more money, then proceed to fake them. Thus, we see the proliferation of artificially toned coins and toning fluids or other chemical concoctions to make a regular coin of no particular value into something special (at least, that it the intent).
While I personally like attractive naturally (i.e., over decades or centuries with no induced toning) toned coins, I'm not especially eager to pay much more than current market value. I'm sure not gonna shell out 10X market value just because a coin is toned.
Fred
But, therein lies the problem. Fraudsters abound, take notice of the varieties which bring in more money, then proceed to fake them. Thus, we see the proliferation of artificially toned coins and toning fluids or other chemical concoctions to make a regular coin of no particular value into something special (at least, that it the intent).
While I personally like attractive naturally (i.e., over decades or centuries with no induced toning) toned coins, I'm not especially eager to pay much more than current market value. I'm sure not gonna shell out 10X market value just because a coin is toned.
Fred
