Expert: PAPAJACK - 7/9/2009

Question
Does a 2001 Rhode Island Quarter with a normal reverse and a nearly blank front with only a faint impression of Washington's head have any value?

Answer
Hello David,                        

Without seeing this coin it’s hard to say.

The blank could be undersize in thickness and it would cause the image to be off as you describe. But more likely it is a “Struck through grease error”.

These coins exhibit weak or all together missing design elements due to the die being clogged with a combination of grease and dirt. There is usually an uneven surface where the design elements are weak. Since it is relatively easy to fake this error, only uncirculated coins are considered collectible. This is the most common of all errors.

But since the coin may have been squeezed or miss-shaped after it left the mint it must be looked at. This condition will not have a premium value added to it. As an oddity it may sell for a dollar or less.

If you want I can refer you to a dealer in your area who can look at the coin in person for more help. Just write back with the general location (nearest large cities) and some zip codes in your area, I can direct you to an AMERICAN NUMISMATIC ASSOCIATION MEMBER/DEALER near there. They are ethical and trustworthy.

Thank You and Good Luck

PapaJack