Opinions needed
Mwoodell
Posts: 2 ✭
Hey all, I'm new here and in need of some opinions on this 1804 spiked chin 1/2 cent. I have always thought that at some point someone scratched initials in it. I pulled it out the other day and snapped this photo to look a little closer at it and I am convinced that the initials are not scratched but raised. I would welcome any opinions on this. Thanks
1
Comments
They're scratches for sure. It's graffiti.
Collector of Capped Bust Halves, SLQ's, Commems, and random cool stuff! @davidv_numismatics on Instagram
Welcome to the forum.
I believe that your thoughts regarding scratched initials were (edited for spelling) correct.
Mark Feld* of Heritage Auctions*Unless otherwise noted, my posts here represent my personal opinions.
They're scratches, which can create displaced raised metal.
I love the irony.
Edited to add:
Feld, you never disappoint.
peacockcoins
Thanks guys.
No. Those are most likely parallel scratches that create the impression of raised die lines. I have something similar on my 1851 half between the NI in UNITED. It looks like a die scratch or break, but it's an illusion from two fine parallel scratches in the surface of the coin.
Graffiti
Sometimes, it’s better to be LUCKY than good. 🍀 🍺👍
My Full Walker Registry Set (1916-1947):
https://www.ngccoin.com/registry/competitive-sets/16292/