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Coin and Paper Money Collecting/Is this quater a fake, or mint error?

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Expert: Cameron Kiefer - 11/29/2006


Question
Hello. I have a 1985 U.S. Quarter that at first I thought was rusty. On further inspection, it looks like it has a copper core, and either painted or plated on the outside. I thought is was really light, maybe fake. Maybe Acid was poured on it?  Have you seen any other quarters like this from that year?  I saw your answer on the 1979 quarter which kinda describes what this one looks like...


Answer
Hi David,

It could be a genuine Mint error (missing the outer clad layer) or it could just be plated once it left the mint and is only worth a quarter.  This is the type of coin that needs to be seen in person.  I suggest looking in your phone book for a coin dealer near you.

Cameron Kiefer

Coin and Paper Money Collecting

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Cameron Kiefer

Expertise

I can answer questions relating to copper, silver and gold coins of the United States.

Experience

I have been a collector for many years, and a dealer at shows. I have written many essay's and Money Talk Scripts for the American Numismatic Association and have attended five Summer Seminars at their headquarters in Colorado Springs, CO.

Organizations
American Numismatic Association (Life member)
California State Numismatic association
Western Wooden money club
Visalia Coin Club
Franklin Collectors Club and many more!

Publications
Coin World
Numismatic News
CSNA Newsletter

Education/Credentials
College

Awards and Honors
. 2001 CSNA Literary award. 2002 ANA Outstanding Young Numismatist of the Year winnner.

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