When a coin is said to have "skin"...

dan1ecu

What does "skin" mean when describing a coin's appearance? What are some different ways in which the term is used?

Dan

Newmismatist

The initial layer of toning on the surface of the coin - if formed in the right environment, you get pretty toning, in the wrong environment a fugly coin. If removed, the coin has nothing to protect it and bad things can happen (especially if the "removal substance" (dip) is not properly rinsed).

islemangu

when I hear that word I think of of skin that looks like its been lightly unifromly snowed upon with a tone that adds texture to the coin surface or at least gives the illusion of minute texture. Looks like you could flake it off if you tried..like on this Jefferson maybe which is a uniform gold tone.

dorkkarl

it references the original patina of the coin, prior to being dipped or otherwise cleaned.

K S