Expert: PAPAJACK - 5/25/2009

Question
I have an 1888 gold coin. The liberty head on the front matches those I have seen online, but there isn't an eagle on the back.  It has a half wreath and a large V on the back.  Can you tell me anything about the value?

Answer
Hello Christie,                           

You are describing a “Racketeer Nickel“.
But the date should be 1883 not 1888. These are usually worth less than a dollar.
Collectors do not want altered coins. The gold plating on the Nickel actually devalues it.

Here is a bit of its history.
http://www.coinsite.com/content/faq/RacketeerNickel.asp

Here is one someone plated recently that did not sell for $5 dollars.

http://upauctions.net/auction/auction_details.php?name=1883-Racketeer-Nickel-&au...


If you still want a dealer to look at the piece for you just write and  give me the nearest large Cities, some postal zip codes and telephone area codes I will refer you to an expert in your area.

Thank You and Good Luck,

PapaJack