Coin and Paper Money Collecting/two headed state quarter

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Expert: - 2/7/2009


Question
i have come across a two headed quarter.  if you compare to an old quarter not even close to looking the same BUT if you
compare it to a state quarter, identical except for heads on both sides.  there is absolutely no seam and like I said it is
exactly like one of the state quarters, size, printing, etc.

is this a us mint mistake?

thank you

deb

Answer
Hi Deb,

This is an interesting item that is sometimes called a magic coin.  99.999% of all the two-headed finds are man made after leaving the U.S. Mint.  This is a very common question.  Sometimes the coins are milled out and then attached, sometimes just cut in half and attached (a lot of work no doubt).  Basically, you have a coin that will win in a coin toss every time.  Other than that there is no real value to the coin.  To be sure it is not a Mint error you could always look up your local coin dealer.  True rarities will most likely be caught right out of U.S. Mint original sewn bag.

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.

Thanks for the question,

Troy Thoreson, aucpro.com  

Coin and Paper Money Collecting

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Troy Thoreson

Expertise

Please, no error coin questions unless your coin is dated 1955 or before. I can answer questions regarding all U.S. Coins, Gold & Silver bullion, including regular mint and proof issue coins and currency. Since 2009, I have been contributing to the Red Book, "A Guide Book of United States Coins", by R.S. Yeoman along with two other publications. I currently run two coin shops in California.

Experience

I have over 30 years experience in Numismatics. I own two coin shops and have examined thousands of coins over the years. Please allow up to 2 business days for an answer. This is a free service and I am happy to answer questions - but please be patient and understanding of my time.

Organizations
My company is an authorized P.C.G.S. and N.G.C. dealer. I am a Life Member of the American Numismatic Association and California State Numismatic Association. We are also an authorized Whites Metal Detector dealership.

Publications
I have written articles for Coin World and the Rare Coin Market Report.

Education/Credentials
I have a certificate of completion from the American Numismatic Association on how to detect counterfeit U.S. Gold Coins and how to Grade U.S. Coins along with other certifications. I have a Bachelor of Science in Business with a concentration in Accounting and a minor in Computer Information Systems.

Awards and Honors
I am listed as a contributor to the Red Book, "A Guide Book of United States Coins", the Red Book, by R.S. Yeoman. I have been contributing to the Red Book since 2009. I also contribute to the Blue Book and the new Professional edition Red Book. I have many other awards and honors.

Past/Present Clients
My past consulting clients included eBay, Inc., Yahoo! Auctions, and the United States Postal Service. I have many other great customers and help all no matter their level of collecting.

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