Expert: Joe Hylas - 1/5/2010

Question
Hi, I have 2 questions;first how can I tell between a red,brown red and brown lincoln wheat ear penny? Also can you plaese tell me the value of a 1893 barber half dollar w/ S stamp and how I can figer out its grade, thanx

Answer
Hello Stuart,
Fist off, color is only important if the cents are in mint condition.  When a cent is struck and is bright, it is considered RED.  As the copper tarnishes, it becomes Red/Brown, and then ultimately Brown.  Look at a new penny, if yours is the same color, it is Red.  If there is any indication of dull spots or brown, it is Red/Brown.  If less than 25% of the coin is Red, it is Brown.
Now for the Barber Half.  Can you read the word LIBERTY in the headband?  If so, the coin is at least FINE condition.  You must be able to read all the letters.  If less than 7 letters are visible but 3 or more are visible, the coin grades Very Good.  No Letters visible is GOOD.
Now, moving up the scale, If all the letters in LIBERTY are easily readable, the coin is Very Fine.  If the letters are bold and the ribbon is distinct, it is Extra Fine.  Slight trace of wear makes the coin Almost Uncirculated and no trace of wear makes it Uncirculated.

I hope this helped you.  If so, please rate my answer.

Regards
Joe Hylas
www.AllCoins.US