Coin and Paper Money Collecting/1854 twenty dollar coin

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Expert: - 2/24/2009


Question
I have found a 1854 twenty dollar coin at my house in some old stuff, it matched the one shown for lots of money except mine has the word copy above the stars on the back of the coin, it is in very excellent condition and its a very nice color and weight. so how can i find out if it is a real coin or worth anything, i would like to save for my grandkids, donna

Answer
Donna,

Sorry but the word COPY means just that -- it's not real -- probably gold plated at best.

A real one is supposed to weigh 33.44 grams.  If yours weighs less, that proves it's not real.

Enjoy its beauty and novelty -- it has no value.

Dan

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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.

Organizations I belong to :
American Numismatic Association Member #187770
Michigan State Numismatic Society Member #8255
Florida United Numismatics Member #19710
Monroe Coin Club Treasurer
Lincoln Coin Club Board Member
WINS Member #14
CoinMasters Member #1814

Frequently Asked Questions :
I have created a Frequently Asked Questions page on my website, where you may be able to get an immediate answer to your question. You can find the page here :
http://www.workingmancoins.com/FAQ/index.htm


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