Expert: Troy Thoreson - 11/24/2009

Question
QUESTION: Found a coin dont know if it is real or not. In the catalog it looks like a 1783 1 cent George Washington. Fully tonedand pitted.
Any suggestins

ANSWER: Hi Jim,

Next step is to get the diameter measurement in millimeters (mm) and weight in grams.  Reply when you have the information.  Did you find this with a metal detector back east or just laying on the ground?  

Yes, the following is a canned response designed to help the novice collector with general information.  If you need more explanation or you feel my answer is to short, please call me or reply with a more specific question.  I own and operate two active coin shops and I apologize in advance if my answer is short, to the point, or lacking detail.  Again, please reply or if I missed something or if you need more information.

Information given about values is general and determined by current market conditions and/or the price of metals.  Prices and values are subject to change.

Please remember to never clean coins, this can damage and lessen their value.  Also, soft plastics can contain harmful chemicals that can react with coins over time.  Try using inert materials when storing coins.  Plus, it is always a good idea to store coins in a safe.  The safe should not be exposed to the elements and should not be up against a wall to the outside.  These are just a few tips I have learned over the years to help keep your collection in top shape.

If you found this information helpful please nominate me for category expert in coins.  If coming through Los Banos, CA please feel free to look us up at Thoreson Numismatics, 947 6th Street, Los Banos, CA  93635.  209-826-0777, email troy@aucpro.com or TNC Coins located at 118 West Main Street, in Turlock, CA  95380  209-668-3682.   Please remember that we are always in the market to buy and sell coins, currency, tokens, and medals both U.S. and World.  We are also licensed to buy scrap gold & platinum jewelry.  

Thanks for the question,


Troy Thoreson, President
Auc Pro, Inc.
Thoreson Numismatics
www.aucpro.com


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks Troy.
Found it  at a estate sale with a lot of other coins in Europe. The size is 1 1/16 inch in Dia. and according to my coin scale its 7.5 grams. Are there copies of this coin on the market? (fakes)

Thanks Jim

Answer
Hi Jim,  The coin is suspect because of the porosity and strike detail.  The weight is a touch on the light side.  I recommend you take it to a local coin dealer in your area.  There are a lot of fakes on the market.  You may also want to have it certified by NGC or PCGS.  Check their websites for local authorized dealers (ngccoin.com and pcgs.com).   Note that even if it is real (after considering the condition) do not expect much because of the condition.  Thanks! Troy