Coin and Paper Money Collecting/Colonial copper

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Expert: Brad Swain - 3/26/2010


Question

ColonialCopper
I recently dug a Colonial copper shown on the attached images.  It's slightly oblong (28x30mm) and unfortunately in very poor condition.  The date is unreadable and coin features are distinguishable only with very low-angle lighting.  From what I've found on the internet, the size would indicate that it's a half penny from the early-mid 1700's, but the convex shape of the bottom of the bust seems to be like that of a farthing.  Can you give any idea which it might be?  Or might the odd combination of size, coin shape, and bust shape indicate that it was a counterfeit?  Would the coin have any value other than as a conversation piece, given its very poor condition?  Thank you!

Answer
Hi Brian, it does seem to be a British 1/2 penny of King George II (1727-1760). Collector value would be about $1 but it is a nice conversation piece.
A long soak in olive oil may help some.
http://www.google.com/search?q=soaking+coin+in+olive+oil
Brad

Brad Swain

Expertise

I have been a World Coin and Paper Money collector since about 1965. I will be glad to answer any questions you may have on World coins or currency, tokens, unusual or unknown pieces and attempt to give you estimates of value and historical information about them in a polite and prompt manner.

Experience

45 years collecting coins and paper money.

Education/Credentials
BA History, BA Geography - Virginia Tech

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