Scratches or die polish lines?

CoinWW2

These look like scratches to me, deep ones, but I don't see them on the high points for some reason. Might just be my old, crusty eyes.

BustHalfBrian

Can't say much w/out a photo

CoinWW2

<< <i>Can't say much w/out a photo >>



There is a photo?

MrHalfDime

You are attempting to analyze a three-dimensional concept using a two-dimensional image. If the lines you are referencing are scratches in the coin surface (which they appear to be), they will be incuse in the coin surface. But if they are die lines, or the result of lapping lines on the coinage die, the lines on the coin will be in relief, or raised on the coin surface. But without the third dimension, such as could be viewed using a stereo microscope, we are left to guess.

Absent this, other clues would be the uninterrupted, smooth areas of the field immediately surrounding the devices, where the 'cleaning' or abrasion was avoided.

BustHalfBrian

<< <i>

<< <i>Can't say much w/out a photo >>



There is a photo? >>



Not on my end...

But maybe I just need to get my eyes checked

yosclimber

They look like scratches from a cleaning to me, because they go in different directions, and the luster is gone.

lkeigwin

Link for picture

Looks like scratches to me too. Die polish lines typically reach the edges of devices which are recessed on the die. These lines stop well before, suggesting careful but harsh cleaning.
Lance.

GoldCoin98

My vote is scratches, as lkeigwin said from a careful albeit harsh cleaning

LindeDad

Improper cleaning back in the wire brush days of coin cleaning.

BustHalfBrian

<< <i>Link for picture

Looks like scratches to me too. Die polish lines typically reach the edges of devices which are recessed on the die. These lines stop well before, suggesting careful but harsh cleaning.
Lance. >>



Ah, that's better. Thanks, Lance!

I also agree with Lance and the others who vote scratches.

BustCuds

The result from a harsh cleaning...scratches

CoinWW2

So why don't they appear on the high points of the coin? (or is it me..)

LanceNewmanOCC

.
PLS
.

grip

Looks like die polish lines to me.

AUandAG

<< <i>So why don't they appear on the high points of the coin? (or is it me..) >>



They do. Just look on the eagle's beak.

bob

grip

<< <i>Link for picture

Looks like scratches to me too. Die polish lines typically reach the edges of devices which are recessed on the die. These lines stop well before, suggesting careful but harsh cleaning.
Lance. >>



Looking at it again. You may be right.

coinkat

Hairlines form an unfortunate cleaning

NumisOxide

Appear to be hairlines from a harsh cleaning.

lkeigwin

Earlier I guessed "careful, harsh cleaning". But I don't think it was "careful" after all.

I suspect the reason for the seemingly undisturbed areas immediately in front of the devices had more to do with the object used for the wiping. An abrasive pad perhaps. Something that lifted slightly as it passed over devices instead of something like a paste which would have left cleaning lines closer.

Whatever. It is another spoiled classic helping survivors appreciate.
Lance.

Broadstruck

As all others have said the coin has been scrubbed.

LotsoLuck

That's a whole lotta scrubbing going on.