Actually they were probably thinking "glad I got rid of that thing". During that era mint errors were NOT wanted and were considered trash. Literally! Many collectors or dealers up through the 1930's or so would have consigned that piece to the trash can.
Conder is absolutely correct about errors once being considered trash. One of my favorite coins in my Lincoln Cent clip set is this 1918-S, a metal detector find which has UNC details but is heavily corroded. I love to think someone threw this defective cent on the ground in disgust, only to have it recovered decades later and placed with pride in my collection.
Sean Reynolds
Incomplete planchets wanted, especially Lincoln Cents & type coins.
"Keep in mind that most of what passes as numismatic information is no more than tested opinion at best, and marketing blather at worst. However, I try to choose my words carefully, since I know that you guys are always watching." - Joe O'Connor
Comments
Craig
Conder is absolutely correct about errors once being considered trash. One of my favorite coins in my Lincoln Cent clip set is this 1918-S, a metal detector find which has UNC details but is heavily corroded. I love to think someone threw this defective cent on the ground in disgust, only to have it recovered decades later and placed with pride in my collection.
Sean Reynolds
"Keep in mind that most of what passes as numismatic information is no more than tested opinion at best, and marketing blather at worst. However, I try to choose my words carefully, since I know that you guys are always watching." - Joe O'Connor