Expert: PAPAJACK - 8/3/2007

Question
I recently found (in a roll of half dollars) a 1973 Kennedy half that appears to be missing the copper core. By this I mean when I first saw it in the roll, I was sure that it was silver because it was silver colored throughout the entire edge. When I saw the date, it ended up not being silver. It feels a little bit lighter than the others (not 100% though).

It also looks a bit grainy on the obverse and reverse.

Is this a true error? Any potential value?

Thanks


Answer
Hello Eric,                     

I am sending this to both emails you gave me.
I have heard a few ways of this look happening on clad coins,
There was always the possibility of a off-metal coin blank (Like a silver Half blank)getting stuck in the bins the mint used and ending up in another production run. (This error would have to be confirmed by an expert.)

Get a good magnifier and a light source. Examine the edge on the coin at all angles.
The silver colored part On a Nickel clad coin is 75% copper and therefore very ductile. The metal often stretches over the coins edge to hide the copper core in the metallic sandwich. Also someone may have plated the coin.

If you have access to a good scale the Silver Half blank weighs 12.50 grams and the copper/nickel blank 11.34 grams, so a silver one is a bit heavier.

If you still suspect it to be a genuine error it needs to be checked by a specialist. If it is a genuine error, it will have numismatic value. But it cannot be estimated without a knowledgeable coin person seeing it.

The Item would have to be seen to be accurately appraised. A photograph would not really help with this. If you write back with the general location (nearest large cities) and telephone area code or codes and some zip codes in your area, I can direct you to an AMERICAN NUMISMATIC ASSOCIATION MEMBER/DEALER near there. They are ethical and trustworthy.

I hope this information Helps.

Please remember to rate this answer.

Good Luck

PapaJack