A big (for me) NEWP -- 1936 proof Mercury dime.
Shurke
Posts: 395 ✭✭✭✭
I didn't set out with the intent to build a set of proof Mercs. But I've been working on set of business strikes for a while, and the Mercury dime is one of my all-time favorite coin designs. A couple years back I decided I should buy at least one proof, just because. The coin I chose was an inexpensive (just over $100) 1942 graded PR65. What I didn't anticipate was just how much I would like it. Of course you know how these things go. I decided I should keep my eye out and pick up one or two more that appealed to me. The next one I added was a gorgeous 1939, and it was all downhill from there; I was officially hooked.
I eventually sold that first 1942, as well as some other dates that came and went as I honed my tastes and goals for this set.
Recently a PR66 1936 with CAC approval at DLRC caught my eye. Strictly speaking, it wasn't the most beautiful proof dime I've ever seen, but it was extremely original in a way that spoke to me. I found myself surfing over to the site multiple times a day to check it out. When I realized how disappointed I'd be if I found out it had sold, I pulled the trigger.
There are two sets of photos here, which are interesting because both are accurate--in very different ways. First, the DLRC photos: these are the most natural shots of the coin and are very representative of what you'd see with the coin in hand in most viewing conditions.
Second, the Trueview: while these aren't the most flattering shots of the coin, this is exactly how it looks when you put a strong, very low angled light on it. As cool as it is to see exactly what's on the surfaces, I'll admit I've given some thought to crossing this to CACG in hopes of getting more flattering photos attached to the cert.
So the series key becomes the third coin in my set, following the 1939 and 1942 issues. And I'm really happy with it. It's lovely in hand, and it fits the aesthetic of me set nicely. Crazy that I'm almost at the halfway mark.
Comments
Thanks for sharing the coin and your thoughts on it.
Congrats on your newp.
but it was extremely original in a way that spoke to me
Curious why you feel it is "original"; I'm no expert on early proof coinage but that haze looks like old dip residue to my eye. Not trying to bag on the coin just don't know if that is a normal original look for proofs of this time
My Collection of Old Holders
Never a slave to one plastic brand will I ever be.
No worries, @coinbuf. There are a few things going on here that in my experience are typical of proofs that were kept in their cellophane.
One is the way the cellophane haze sometimes covers only a portion of the surface, leaving the proof mirrors to show through in spots. It's a little clearer (and more attractive) on this 1942 proof. Note especially the reverse field around the EPU area. The same sort of effect can be seen on the 1936 below the EPU and also on the obverse on Liberty's neck and below her chin.
Another thing is the spots on the reverse of the 1936, especially in the right field. Original proofs frequently get small contaminants on their surfaces, and colorful halos seems to spring up around them. While the colors don't show in these pics, the spots on the 1936 have some vibrant yellows and greens that flash when light hits them at the right angle. Basically, they're in keeping with spots I've seen on other proofs that I'd consider original.
Finally, there are the red hues around the base the Liberty's neck on the 1936. Color on proofs with cellophane haze frequently has a light quality that makes it seem almost like it's been brushed on top of the haze. And that's certainly the case here.
Keep in mind, the colors that you maybe associate with dip haze don't show except in extreme lighting conditions. In hand the coin looks very white, excepting toned areas around the rim. In fact, when the 1936 is placed next to the 1942 above, the two don't look all that dissimilar.
Thanks @Shurke always good to learn something new.
My Collection of Old Holders
Never a slave to one plastic brand will I ever be.
I love the look of cellophane toning on proof coins, but I always wonder if there's an MS68 waiting to emerge once it's had a bath
Commems and Early Type
Lovely look to that one @Shurke!
To add to the discussion on original vs. not - below are images of a 1942 Proof dime that was removed from the original cellophane and graded 67+. Original Proofs will often show slight spotting and varying levels of chalky to colorful haze, while dipped coins will rarely regain that surface. The haze often has a pearly sheen to it.
Coin Photographer.
Thanks, @FlyingAl. That’s high praise coming from someone with your expertise on proofs.
Great looking coin, @Shurke and I also share your sentiments about the beautiful design of the Merc. Just bought my first proof Mercury dime this month and I am too, hooked. Only difference is that I prefer a coin with bright white reflective mirrors. To each their own and enjoy your quest. I too am looking forward to my next purchase, but for now, this ‘39 will do nicely.
All posted photos,very well done. My favorite series.
Very nice! The dime was the first coin I bought for my 1936 set, a very similar looking PR66 CAC example.
Collector, occasional seller
A little bit of cellophane haze is okay with me as long as it’s not too thick. It’s a sign that the coin has not been dipped.
Some of these coins have random dullish spots in the fields. I used to think that was from dipping, but it isn’t. The Proof dies were plated with chromium. When it flaked off during the minting process, the fragments left those marks. Since they are part of the minting process, it’s technically not a defect, but I prefer coins that don’t have them.
Wow! I just noted that this is post 34,000 for me. It’s been quite a ride over the past 23 years.
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No doubt that’s a big part of the reason so many of them have been dipped.
At least I’m confident that mine is not 68 in disguise.
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That is a lovely example. Not sure why it is, but I just couldn’t fall in love with fully brilliant proofs from this era. I picked a few up, could objectively recognize how nice they were, but ultimately they left me cold.
As you say, to each their own. I’m looking forward to seeing your next addition!
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I’d love to see it if you’ve got a pic handy.
I have!
Collector, occasional seller
Very nice!
I like your new coin a lot. Nice pickup!