Expert: Joe Hylas - 1/10/2007

Question
Hi Joe-
I have 2 misstamped coins. THe first is a penny, 1981, with about 1/8th of an inch crescent moon showing on the right side of the coin front.  It is on the left on the back. THe coin is  best described as being off-center because of the  misstamp, but is still round.
The second is a nickel.  This has about 1/4" only that is actually stamped with the nickel markings- the rest is blank  silver, and the nickel is misshaped, as well. The stamped part juts out and makes the coin sort of oval.  The only words visible are  "BUM UNUM, on the back, and on the front, you can just make out the neck and the number 1 for the beginning of the date.  Are these of any value? Many thanks for your time.  

Answer
Hi Brends,

Offcenter strikes are pretty common.  If you look on eBay, there are quite a few of them for sale and unfortunately, they do not bring big prices.  I see most trade for under $10 each.  The more offcenter, the higher the price.  One important factor that I have witnessed is that most collectors like to be able to read the date as well.
I hope this helps you.  Take a peak at eBay and you will see what I mean.

Regards
Joe Hylas