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1884 and 1885 Three cent nickels -Proof or circulation strike?
rec78
Posts: 5,854 ✭✭✭✭✭
Hello, I have these two 3 cent nickels an 1884 and 1885 are these proof or circuation strike coins and how did you determine what you think they are? Please comment below.
I have had these for many years (about 40). I would like to know the die markers if any for determining a proof. Thanks in advance for your comments. Bob.
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Virtually impossible to tell when they are new and perfect, so there is no hope on circs.
Each of your coins are from dies that were used to strike both proof and circulation coins. There is no 100% agreed upon way to tell the difference.
Thankfully PCGS has figured out the secret to these... which is to assume less risk by just calling them proofs and still collect grading fees.
Are they graded XF?
Slab shots?
Student of numismatics and collector of Morgan dollars
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I guess you disagree with the grading service, right?
Ok, Thanks for pointing this out. I was confused but your answer explains everything.
Think that they are both circulation strikes but TrickleCharge explained the reason.
The price difference between Proof and Circulation strike is enormous. I will most likely break them out and send them to NGC or ANACS.
Thanks for everyone's comments. I am more knowledgeable on this issue now.
Do what you gotta do, but you can save yourself some money by reading my comment above.
If both types were struck from the same dies, how were they differentiated at the time they were struck? Were the proofs struck on different dates from the circulation strikes? Was the striking pressure different for each type? Or were they all struck in the same manner, with some sold to collectors and some released to circulation?
My Adolph A. Weinman signature
I should think that Proof is the default grade for these coins in any condition at any TPGS unless the coin SCREAMS OUT "I AM A MINT STATE STRIKE". Therefore, don't waste your money. They are what they are.
I did read it and respect it. But i still may gamble and send it to ANACS -It may be worth it.