Thumbing a coin. Would someone please explain what is actually done to a coin when it is thumbed?

UncleWiggly

Is it done to hide wear? Bag marks? Scratches? Also, after a coin has been thumbed, does it stay that way? Or does it start to show up more and more some how? Thanks,



Jerry

dthigpen

The goal is that the oils in the thumb will transfer to the surface of the coin and 'hide' some of the scratches and marks, to put it simply.

UncleWiggly

Thanks, I had visions of someone using their thumbnail some how. So I guess after time it would start to show some sort of signs that it had been thumbed.



Jerry

morganbarber

I believe that the thumb is first rubbed on the nose to get the required modicum of grease.

UncleWiggly

Then why don't they just stick the coin on their nose?



Jerry

dthigpen

<< <i>Then why don't they just stick the coin on their nose?



Jerry >>



Good idea~!

TUMUSS

<< <i>Then why don't they just stick the coin on their nose? >>

cladking

The oil will also help to lift off grime and debris. It can hide an old cleaning and make a coin appear much more natural. Very few circulated coins look worse afterward, but don't do it if there's corrosion or it will be highlighted.

UncleWiggly

Well, is using this technique hide/remove the defects permanently? Some yes, some no? Is it considered a ok form of cleaning or "doctoring"? Is thumbing used by some to "doctor" a coin in oreder to sell it?



Jerry

nwcs

No, just long enough to get into holders (is the goal). It also reduces the glare/reflection off of hits in the prime focal area. By making them look less noticable, they idea is that the coin will grade a bit higher.

Elcontador

TUMUSS, where I went to college, that photo would be considered by some to be pornographic!

morgannut2

Silver actors make up (grease paint) was popular for awhile until the TPGS learned to notice it.