Collecting Chaff - A Columbian Half
Catbert
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After the estimable Dr Tom Bush @TomB sold several consigned coins for me (he is highly recommended BTW for a no fuss/no muss experience) and before he sent me my proceeds, I asked him to include his Columbian Half that he culled from his collection. Tom has occasionally provided glimpses of his coins from his personal collection and every now and then, he will sift one out to place for sale on his website.
As all know, Columbian halves are readily available widgets, yet those with attractive colors like this are not as easy to find. In my admittedly limited experience with commemoratives, many Columbian halves are dark gray or brown, but I'm a sucker for blue toning. I also like the brilliant centers that even @ricko could love. Another reason I wanted to own one is, forgive me, in response to what I feel is a ridiculous rejection of all things Christopher Columbus. Beyond the high mintage, It would not surprise me that it will fall further in valuation due to some who have become disturbed with that part of our history. Maybe this is a questionable reason to buy a coin, but it was a small factor for me nonetheless.
You may remember Tom's article about this coin being submitted by him to PCGS in 1998 as it came back in one of the first blue holdered coins as the OGH was replaced by PCGS. You can read about his experience here if you've not seen his blog post:
While this coin is in a 64 holder with green bean, I agree with Tom that it warrants a 65, but the treasure map "X" at 2:00 on the reverse may be a limiting factor. I am happy to take his chaff and include it in my small collection as my only commemorative coin.
"Got a flaming heart, can't get my fill"
Comments
Very nice Columbian half, they are one of my coin weaknesses. I sure do love Columbians!
Maybe the nicest I've seen
I have always liked the Columbian Half... ever since I got my first one as a paperboy... kept that for years... disappeared when I joined the Navy.... Cheers, RickO
It's a great coin and I am glad you were able to use the image of myself I provided for you in the thread!
In honor of the memory of Cpl. Michael E. Thompson
Nice Columbian!
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Always like a nice looking Columbian Half... cool!
Michael Kittle Rare Coins --- 1908-S Indian Head Cent Grading Set --- No. 1 1909 Mint Set --- Kittlecoins on Facebook --- Long Beach Table 448
The only coin that I ever physically lost was the XF 1892 half from my father’s boyhood collection. It’s gotta be here somewhere!