Lincoln proofs...
Parker1974
Posts: 16
These are probably stupid, basic questions, but the 'search' function hasn't been much help.
1) Re: 1936 - 1958 cents: How do I tell a non-cameo proof apart from a nicely struck prooflike MS coin? I've seen references to a squared rim - is that what I should look for?
2) Re: matte Lincoln proofs - same question. I'm having a hard time figuring out exactly what a real matte proof is supposed to look like. Is there an easy-to-identify feature? I've never seen one in person - just pics online.
3) Are a lot of raw non-proofs sold as proofs? That is, should I look askance at any non-certified Lincolns described as 'proof' on ebay?
4) Not sure exactly how to phrase this...Why are early Lincoln proofs so inexpensive? I mean, relative to their apparent rarity. For example, mintage on a 1937 is just 9,320 pieces - yet decent-looking specimens appear to go for less than $200. It just seems to me that Lincolns must be a relatively popular series amongst collectors, and since proofs are basically the 'showcase' versions of regular strikes, I'd think demand would be great enough such that prices would be a good deal higher. I think I must lack some basic understanding of the market.
5) Any advice on where I can read more about Linc proofs, either online or in print?
1) Re: 1936 - 1958 cents: How do I tell a non-cameo proof apart from a nicely struck prooflike MS coin? I've seen references to a squared rim - is that what I should look for?
2) Re: matte Lincoln proofs - same question. I'm having a hard time figuring out exactly what a real matte proof is supposed to look like. Is there an easy-to-identify feature? I've never seen one in person - just pics online.
3) Are a lot of raw non-proofs sold as proofs? That is, should I look askance at any non-certified Lincolns described as 'proof' on ebay?
4) Not sure exactly how to phrase this...Why are early Lincoln proofs so inexpensive? I mean, relative to their apparent rarity. For example, mintage on a 1937 is just 9,320 pieces - yet decent-looking specimens appear to go for less than $200. It just seems to me that Lincolns must be a relatively popular series amongst collectors, and since proofs are basically the 'showcase' versions of regular strikes, I'd think demand would be great enough such that prices would be a good deal higher. I think I must lack some basic understanding of the market.
5) Any advice on where I can read more about Linc proofs, either online or in print?
Hutz: Now don't you worry, Mrs. Simpson, I - uh-oh. We've drawn Judge Snyder.
Marge: Is that bad?
Hutz: Well, he's kind of had it in for me, since I accidently ran over his dog. Actually, replace `accidently' with `repeatedly', and replace `dog' with `son'.
Marge: Is that bad?
Hutz: Well, he's kind of had it in for me, since I accidently ran over his dog. Actually, replace `accidently' with `repeatedly', and replace `dog' with `son'.
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Comments
1)There is no PL MS Lincolns.As Jeremy said the MS coins will have cartwheel lustre,while the Proofs will be brilliant.With the exception of the 1936 Satin Proof Lincoln.It has the Matte Proof finish.
2)There are Die Characteristics to look for in the 1909-1916 Matte Proof Lincolns.The squared rims is just a small part of it.Most of the Lincoln Matte Proof collectors have them.There was a book published with this info.I can't think of the name though.It was mailed to me by one of the other Lincoln Proof collectors.We have shared info and helped obtain coins for our collections.
3)Unless you learn the Die Characteristics,I'd steer clear of raw "Matte Proofs" on Ebay.Just a suggestion.
4)As with most coins the Lincoln Proofs in PR65 RED will sell for that kind of money.However the CAM and DCAM you'll find are very expensive.For that reason I choose to collect the all RED examples.
I sincerly hope this helps.
Registry 1909-1958 Proof Lincolns
My Complete PROOF Lincoln Cent with Major Varieties(1909-2015)Set Registry
has a little about the die characteristics for matte proofs.
I thought there was another book even better but can't think of it.
Marge: Is that bad?
Hutz: Well, he's kind of had it in for me, since I accidently ran over his dog. Actually, replace `accidently' with `repeatedly', and replace `dog' with `son'.
Albrecht, Leonard.
Matte Proof Lincoln cent, 1909-1917.
Colorado Springs, American Numismatic Association, 1983. p. 2051-2062. ill. Reprint of the article first published in The Numismatist, Oct. 1983 issue.
Doggedly collecting coins of the Central American Republic.
Visit the Society of US Pattern Collectors at USPatterns.com.
WS