Expert: Neil S Berman - 10/23/2008

Question
Some time ago, I acquired a type set, part of which included an 1833 half dime, dime, quarter and half, as well as an 1846 Dollar.  All 5 coins are bright white and untoned, and appear to be high grade, with no wear (just a few surface nicks here and there) . They all look "Uncirculated" yet do not show the usual mint "luster" I would expect to find on an Unc (although the dime seems to have some, just not a brilliant "cartwheel" luster like a newer Unc, and the Quarter has really nice toning only on the reverse).  I have a sneaking suspicion the coins might have been dipped at some point (but how would you dip half of the quarter?) as a result of this, and I've looked and can't find hairlines anywhere, which would seem to eliminate harsher "cleanings."  So, I have two questions:  (1) Is there any other reason (other than dipping) these coins might appear mostly white but with less luster than I've seen on newer coins?(these are the only Bust coins I've ever owned, especially in this high of a grade, so I have non-existent "in-hand" references to compare to!)  (2)  I'm considering certifying the coins, regardless.  Is it worthwhile in your opinion to send to NCS and let them "pass-thru" those that would not be considered "cleaned" to NGC, or to just keep them raw?  Is there a significant value difference slabbing the coin NCS "details" (which would be my "worst case" scenario) or should I keep them raw?  I'm not really looking to sell them-I just want to protect them and enhance their future value (especially that 1833 Quarter!!).  I've collected coins for 30+ years, and also would be able to provide large, clear & accurate color digital images if that would help you answer.  Just need to know where to send them...Thank you very much!

Answer
You are correct when you are suspicious of coins with no color. All silver coins a hundred years old have color. A lack of color and/or lustre is usually an indication that the color has been stripped off by harsh chemical means, which might include repeated dipping, on the entire coin or just parts of the coin. The fellows that do this to coins can be pretty good at removing or adding color, and the work was probably done by a pro if there are no hairlines. The 1833 coins are not rare in grades under uncirculated, but the 1846 dollar is in almost all grades. As a dealer, I do not sell coins that have not been certified by NGC or PCGS for a variety of reasons, one of which is the problem you now face. If they have been cleaned, they have no "future" value, so you best find out earlier rather than later as to what has been done to them. Any coin you plan to hold with any expectation of increased value should be certified without exceptions. I would be happy to look at your pictures, which may or may show the issues you mention. nsberman@msn.com