Expert: Brad Swain - 4/17/2010

Question
Im new with this I had the coin for a long time to me I thought of it just an old coin my grandma gave before she passed it was old and wear so I cleaned it because it was like a light light  tan and gray and darker around edges  so I thought it needed cleaning so now I go in research and I belive it is a Satin Finish Low Relief 1922 and if so its rare now only two to four known... but by me extra cleaning it. Did I lower the worth of it now.. I sent a picture please help me out sir, I see your an expertise in this field Mr. Swain ...Thanks For Your Time And Courtesy.

Answer
Hi Nancy, unfortunately a coin cleaned like that would only be worth its silver value, .7736 of an ounce of silver, currently about $14.
You might take it by a local coin shop for a first hand opinion: http://find.mapmuse.com/interest/coin_dealers .
Collector value of a coin depends on date, mint mark (if any), number minted and condition of a coin, including amount of wear, any dents, scratches or cleaning as well as collector demand for it.
U.S. coin prices for ungraded coins: http://www.bestcoin.com/united-states-coin-pricing-guide.htm .
You might also try a library for a copy of the Guidebook of United States Coins for pictures, values and lots more interesting info.
Brad