Expert: Brad Swain - 3/9/2010

Question
QUESTION: I inherited a 1976 Bahamas 15 cent coin in mint condition. It also has "MATTE UNC" on the packet. Is it of any value?

ANSWER: Hi Robert, There were 3,500 minted that year and it may be worth about $1 to $3 depending on amount of collector demand.
You might also try a library for a copy of the Standard Catalog of World Coins for pictures, values and lots more interesting info.
Brad

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QUESTION: What does "MATTE UNC" mean?

Answer
Hi Robert, 'matte' is a special finish occasionally put on coins for sale to collectors. Instead of the surface being shiny it is more of a satin finish. It gives the coins a different kind of attractiveness. These were made by the Franklin Mint (f or fm mintmark), a private company in the U.S. for the government of the Bahamas.
Brad