verdigris

dan1ecu

Here’s the dictionary’s definition of verdigris:

1) A blue or green powder consisting of basic cupric acetate used as a paint pigment and fungicide.
2) A green patina or crust of copper sulfate or copper chloride formed on copper, brass, and bronze exposed to air or seawater for long periods of time.

There’s an 1884 PCGS PR65 Liberty nickel up for auction at Heritage that, according to the description, has some verdigris on star #6. I took a close-up look at the coin, and there is indeed a green spot on star #6. What I’m wondering is... how can you tell the difference between verdigris, which is apparently not harmful (correct?), and PVC?

What’s your experience with verdigris?

Dan

Proof Liberty nickel with verdigris

DHeath

Verdigris is another term for normal corrosion, while PVC contamination specifically refers to the damage caused by that plastic. Verdigris, patina, toning, corrosion, tarnish.......take your pick.