Specks on Coin
MathandBikes
Posts: 31 ✭✭✭
Hello all. Could you please provide a little intuition on what the specks on this coin might be from? Also, would you expect them to continue to spread over time? Thanks!
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I cannot tell what the contaminant might be.... would just be guesses without microscopic examination. They do not look as if they would spread, but again, that is speculation. Cheers, RickO
could be carbon spots.
Usually when I see fly specks I think of moisture from people. Like a sneeze or spittle.
TurtleCat Gold Dollars
From the image they appear to be what many folks would call carbon specks or fly specks. In my experience, these are stubbornly adhered to the surface of the coin, but do not spread. Truly, on common coinage like this, if you don't like the spots I would simply continue to look for a different coin.
In honor of the memory of Cpl. Michael E. Thompson
It is the result of moisture coming in contact with the copper-nickel alloy from which the coin is made. Like others said, a sneeze or cough can cause this from saliva. It can’t be removed without making the situation worse. It is one thing to note when you are buying coins. It’s one of the problems that prompt me to pass on a coin.
@MathandBikes
Are there specks on the reverse?
Maybe the aftermath of someone sneezing?
If you don't already own it it is a coin you should pass on.
Here is the reverse. Similar spotting. I own this coin and am fairly new to collecting. I’ve had this one for about 2 years. I don’t remember the specks when I bought it. I have recently moved my coins to a new storage area and am using silicon gel packs to capture moisture.
This is the only coin in my collection with this look so not sure if it was my storage or if it was something I just didn’t notice as one of my first coin purchases.
The spots were most likely there before it was encapsulated. If you're not happy with it, sell it on ebay and buy another one.
pretty common on nickels, part of the hunt is finding a nice one without those.