Question for modern commem folks.

mdwoods

I recently finished my set of modern 1/2 dollar commemorative coins in PCGS MS69. It's a fairly inexpensive set. I became interested in set because of the Bald Eagle half. The obverse with the chicks is kind of ho hum but the other side with the adult eagle is very nice. The way the light plays over the eagle is pretty cool. My question however is about the 91 D Mt. Rushmore half. I noticed that there are a number of black specks on both sides. I doubt they were there when the coin was slabbed. Are specks problematic with this particular issue? I looked at photos of some more that are listed on ebay. Some seem to show specks but you know how ebay photos can be.

johnperk747

Hi "mdwoods",
I don't have an "answer" for you but wanted to say HI !!
There are not a lot of us Modern Commemorative Coin guys on the board that I know off
I also have a Modern Commemorative Set - Both Dollar & Half Dollars in PCGS 69's In both MS & PR Coins (180 coins so far!!!)

Blessings

John Perkins

19Lyds

Black "specs" are not the bain of solely Modern Commemoratives but can affect literally any coin alloy. Usually, they are the result of someone blowing dust off the coin and replacing that dust with tiny, nearly imperceptible, droplets of spittle. These contaminate the surface after a fairly long time.

I'm of the opinion that the damage is permanent. Especially with a proof issue.

Can you provide a photograph or two?

mdwoods

I'll try to get a decent photo. They're tough to see. With the naked eye you can almost not notice them.

ebaytrader

As far as black specks go - no. I do see minute breaks in the frost on the portraits of the prezes that could be mistaken as specks, though.

Cougar1978

Congrats on an impressive accomplishment.

Specks can affect any coin issue. Their cause can be an impurity in the metal, something in the minting process, or some other factor. Unless the coin is in a vacuum, reaction with the atmosphere (I don't believe slabs are air tite) and heat will affect it. Salt air can be especially damaging.