Early lincoln matte proofs
sinin1
Posts: 7,500 ✭
How can you tell if you have a matte proof vs uncirculated business strike?
What caused purple toning on Lincoln's, and is it natural? Is it seen more often on proof coins than uncirculated? I think this is a cool colored coin.
What caused purple toning on Lincoln's, and is it natural? Is it seen more often on proof coins than uncirculated? I think this is a cool colored coin.
0
Comments
not a matte proof
i would love to see this coin in person and only then could i tell you almost! for sure the answers to your questions
i csnt say where the toning came from because i really need to see the color of this coin in person but a guesstimate from the scan usually this type/look of toning comes from envelope toning!
sincerely michael
LSCC#1864
Ebay Stuff
I've been told by several dealers at shows (when I asked for matte proof Buffalos and Lincolns) that I should be careful because it is easy to mistake a MS coin for a matte proof. I wanted to learn and asked how one could tell. I was told that they just know. This sounds like one more reason to buy these coins already slabbed.
al h.
Proofs
Hairlines: For the Matte Proof coins of 1909-16, hairlines are difficult to detect. The matte-like surface, which is really closer to Satin or Roman Proof than the Matte Proof look of gold coins, "hides" hairlines. These coins often have die polish, and making the distinction frequently requires careful examination. The brilliant Proofs from 1936 and later often have light to moderate hairlines from mishandling or cleaning. The field of the obverse is the most noticeable area affected by hairlines, with the central area among the denomination and lettering of the reverse also affected.
Reflectivity: The Matte Proofs do not have reflectivity; their surface is best described as satin When original, these coins have a soft "glow" that is very attractive, though not reflective. The brilliant Proofs of the later years, except the 1936 Type 1, have deeply mirrored field and often have frosted devices. After 1968, almost all Lincoln cents have deeply frosted or cameo devices that contrast superbly with the deeply reflective fields.
Strike: Almost all Lincoln cents Proofs are well-struck. The Matte Proofs of 1909-16, brilliant Proofs of 1936-42, and the 1950-64 and 1968-to-date Proofs are excellent examples of the Mint's ability to produce high quality coinage. The bow tie is sharp and distinct, as are Lincoln's hair and coat. The inner borders of the rims are nearly square with the fields, and broad, thick rims are found on nearly every coin. Nearly 100 percent of the modern Lincoln Memorial Proofs are razor-sharp strikes.
Eye Appeal: The most attractive coins of both Proof types have original mint red. The color of the Matte Proof coins is usually not as fiery as for the brilliant Proofs, with other factors determining eye appeal for the Matte coins. Spotting, discoloration, hairlines, and other surface impairments affect both types--and the presence or lack, of these deficiencies determines the eye appeal.
Matte proof will be -?
Satin Finish - glow/reflectivity throughout - no cartwheel
Sharp rim and edge
no hairlines but possibly some thread lines - like colored thread on dollar bill
Recolored? Why would someone want to make a coin look dark and purple - premium is for red is it not?
I definitely like the strike, either way.
The coin is definitely a business strike. The rims don't appear to be squared off enough for a matte proof and the fields do not appear to have the pebbly nature of a matte proof. Also, the detail in the hair and beard is lacking for a matte proof, there should be much better definition in these areas. It also appears to have too much gloss on the surface.
In honor of the memory of Cpl. Michael E. Thompson