Expert: Ronald Fern - 1/23/2011

Question
Hello,
A 1977 dime has a defective shape. The rim (edge) of the coin is made of copper (I believe)and the coin is substantially smaller in size than a true dime. the last 7 in 1977 is half cut off (at the bottom)and the word LIBERTY is about 1/4 cut off at the top. The reverse side has United States of America and One Dime barely contained by the edge. In other words, the circumference is notably smaller, the edge exceeds the thickness of the coin, and is made of copper. Is this a keeper???
Thanks for your time.

Answer
Hi Patricia:

Thanks for your question.

With odd or unusual coins, it is always best to provide as much information as possible or a photo when asking a question. Things like weight, thickness and diameter are important in trying to pinpoint what you may have.

From your description, it sounds like your coin could have been altered by someone outside the mint. This effect could be attempted by putting your coin into a vise and filing it down, reducing the diameter of the coin and trying to make it appear to be an error. Altered coins would have no added numismatic value.

Sometimes people try and fool you into thinking you have a real error coin. Here are some examples of coins either being altered or damaged.
See link: http://coinauctionshelp.com/page15.html
See link: http://conecaonline.org/content/OhNo.htm

You could have a coin struck on a foreign planchet. The retail value of the coin would likely range in value from $300 to $500, and depend on strike and condition of the coin. If you want to ask a follow-up question and provide a photo or more date, I'll revise my answer, if required. The grade of your coin is also important in establishing the value. Your coin should be authenticated professionally.

Here are two sites to check error values:
http://www.coinsite.com/html/userrorprices.asp
http://minterrornews.com/priceguide.html

You may want to check US coins and currency listings under errors on eBay from time to time to see if your coin is listed what this type of item may bring.

If you live close to a local shop, they should offer an opinion as to the value at no charge. Always try and get at least two opinions and try and deal with PNG dealers if possible. If you should decide to sell your items to a dealer, remember they will offer about 50% to 60% of the retail value. Here's a link to find one in your area: http://www.pngdealers.com/dealersearch.php You'd likely get more for this coin in a major coin auction, or by selling it to a dealer specializing in errors.

Please remember to go to the experts site to rate this answer. Check the nomination box on the rating page below any comments you may have.

Thank You and Good Luck in your collecting.