Merc Question. FB?

DanArgent

What does the FB refer to in referance to Mercs?

Numismanic

The center bands on the reverse have to be be fully split and rounded.

DanArgent

you mean on the facis?

Numismanic

<< <i>you mean on the facis? >>



Yes

Fairlaneman

Should look like this on the reverse. Only the Middle Band needs to be split for the designation.



Ken

DanArgent

So is it all three horizontal bands or just the center one? also, what about the diagonals. how many bands are there supposed to be in one group, two?

Numismanic

<< <i>So is it all three horizontal bands or just the center one? also, what about the diagonals. how many bands are there supposed to be in one group, two? >>



Just the center one.

DanArgent

thanks guys, I didn't see the pic post when I was typing my last post. Thanks, the picture was helpful.

coinguy1

DanArgent, the pics no longer show but here is an old thread I started on this subject. If you need additional help, please feel free to PM me.

Link to old thread

JrGMan2004

I can't find it on my computer, but I recently wrote an article for the YNA Newsletter about how to spot FB Mercs, and some other information about it... I'm pretty sure I still have the hardcopy somewhere, but I don't feel like typing it all in...

DanArgent

is not having a full band just a sign of wear or were there different dies used, one with and one without?

Dan

JrGMan2004

It's a matter of strike. A circulated coin (Even AU) can not be designation as FB. The central bands of the fasces must be fully split and rounded. A nick across the bands is enough to take it out of the FB designation. Fully split bands is an indicator of a strong strike. Some date/mm combinations are notoriously bad about weak strikes. For example, take 1945. An EXTREMELY common coin that sells for $20 in MS65. Tack an FB on to the end and you're talkin about close to $10k for that puppy in PCGS plastic...