Coin and Paper Money Collecting/1970-D Kennedy Half

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Expert: - 7/25/2008


Question

1970-D Half dollar
I recently purchased a 1970 small date mint set. The half Dollar was described as clean. Upon examination, I found that the eagle head was obliterated, the lower quarter of the shield is gone  much of his tail, And Right (facing ) wing edge, and foot detail lost, Appears worn, but I know about grease filled dies. Seller says they were done with worn dies, but I cannot find anything about the reference to this. He is willing to give my money back, But I suppose an error coin would be worth keeping Your Opinion, and information would be appreciated.  Kelly  As a tool maker, I fail to see how a die would just wear in these areas, It would wear in all of the high areas.

Answer
Kelly,

Looks like worn die to me too.

The wear on a coin die is also dependent on the design on the opposite side of the coin.  Metal flows (and therefore die wear) will depend on the height of the design on BOTH sides of the coin.  Therefore, one wing will wear more quickly than the other.

I don't see much, if any, premium for this coin.  Keep it if you think it's neat -- return it if you don't.

Dan

Dan Moore

Expertise

My strong familiarity with all U.S. Mint coins, extensive reference library, and close relationships with many other dealers allows me to identify just about any coin made in the USA. I receive regular updates to all the current price guides -- both wholesale & retail -- to provide accurate values. So, with a good description or pictures, I should be able to identify and value any U.S. coin you have.

Experience

I've been a coin dealer since the 1980's and a coin collector since the 1960's. I specialize in U.S. Silver Coins and have an active online website -- The Working Man's Rare Coins -- http://www.workingmancoins.com -- offering information and inventory in U.S. coins.

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