Basic/Stupid Question Re Double Mint Sets
RichR
Posts: 3,930 ✭✭✭✭✭
I own several original double Mint sets (thanks to my father)...and I know he didn't "play" with them. But the coins are stuck in the cardboard holders almost haphazardly. Some have both halfs facing up or down, ditto for the quarters, dimes nickels, cents, etc.
Was there any order in how the Mint originally pushed those coins into the slots? And should I try (wearing gloves) to gently bring order to the chaos...or is it better to just leave them alone?
Was there any order in how the Mint originally pushed those coins into the slots? And should I try (wearing gloves) to gently bring order to the chaos...or is it better to just leave them alone?
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Sorry...but they're rainbow toned...so you probaby wouldn't want them...
But seriously, they're arranged kinda random. I don't think there was a set pattern for packaging back in those days...just get them into an envelope and get them out the door.
Of all the mint sets I own, most have random patterns of rotation but for the most part show an obverse and reverse on a single board.
I do have a set or two where the coins are perfectly aligned and both obverse and reverse are shown. I find these are the exception rather than the rule and I have always wondered if the "perfect" ones are the ones that have been messed with.
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Having handled multiple hundred's of Double Mint Sets through the years it's not unusual to find a board or set with coins placed haphazardly. I've seen them mixed obverse/reverse up in all sorts of patterns. If the backside paper has an indention forward the coin most likely has been pushed out of the board and returned. Likewise, look at the edges of the board circling the coin, if it protrudes out the coin has been removed.
If you want to remove and align the coin(s) be careful not to push through the paper. Try flipping the cover paper over to double the paper on the back side and work the coin forward...do not push hard or your finger will fly through that old paper. Gently work the coin from all sides to move it forward and out. Yes, always use a white cotton glove.
Good luck...