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Coin and Paper Money Collecting/1863 Indian head misstruck?

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Expert: - 2/5/2008


Question

1863 Indian head
Hello, I recently got into some coin selling.  A co worker came to me with a coin I can't seem to find any information on, and my father, who has spent a significant amount of time in the business, has never seen anything like it.  This is an 1863 indian head with 3 extra shields imprinted on the wreath side and 2 on the head side.  Do you have any explanation for this?

Answer
Hi Chris,
The coin was not produced at the mint like this.  Those extra shileds were punched into the coin afterwards, for what reason I do not know.
It was pretty common in the 1800's to counterstamp coins.  It was done either by merchants, or individuals.  Sometimes it would have the merchant's name.
Good luck with it.
Regards
Joe Hylas

Joe Hylas

Expertise

Numismatic professional with over 30 years experience can answer your questions about US coins, their values, how best to sell them and where to buy them. Interested in starting a collection? Find out which areas are undervalued and how to acquire those coins at the best price.

Experience

Ex-Head Precious Metals trader for Deak-Perera International with 42 offices worldwide. Industry experience since 1978. Has worked co-operatively with US Mint, Royal Canadian Mint, Austrian Mint, Chamber of Mines of South Africa, World Gold Council and Platinum Guild International. Professioanl numismatist specializing in US Coins. Always buying collections, will travel if size of collection warrants. Website: www.AllCoins.US

Organizations
PCGS, NGC, Rotary

Publications
Physician's Money Digest

Education/Credentials
Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration

Awards and Honors
Paul Harris Fellow

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