Found this curiosity in a world junk pile. It’s a modern Luxembourg 1990 1 Franc (KM# 63). The reverse has what appears to be a serial number machine stamped. Clearly this is PMD, but I’ve never seen anything like it. The number was stamped so as not to disturb any of the legend. I found this interesting because a typical household would probably not have the tools to create such a counterstamp. Someone took the time to do this and to do it carefully. Wonder what the purpose of doing this was, if there was a purpose. Has anyone encountered any coins similarly marked or have any idea why this was created?
The only thing I can even think of is it might be a test piece or something. It's supposed to be nickel plated steel. Is this coin magnetic?
It is magnetic and the weight is right. I was thinking that it might be some type of test piece or a pattern too. That would give it more value as opposed if it was just tinkered with in someone’s garage. Would be nice to confirm. Haven’t found anything yet.
Just a thought. 78201 is the zip code for San Antonio. There is a coin shop there called Texas Coins. The TC could be that....just a thought. Could be some other business. There is also a company called Cognizant Technology Solutions but who knows why they would be marking coins.
Some of the massive Proof Sets late 60s had serial numbered coins. Like for ex. my 69 AV Biafra Set/ the 35 Pounds is numbered. The Valcambi Mint struck 3000 sets. Same for my 69 Uganda set. The 1000 schilingi weighs 140 g.
If you go to the Central Train Station in Luxembourg City and ask for item 78201 you will receive the instructions for your mission. The fate of the western world is on your shoulders. As always, you are not official and we have never heard of you.
That is an odd one. Maybe an earlier form of "Where is George?" LOL The counter stamp appears to be all one stamp, not individual letters and numbers, so it would seem they were doing more than just this coin. Post if you discover the reason for it.
I wonder how they do this in mints. Appears serial number is stamped into the planchet at same time coin is struck rather than before or after striking. Have seen something similar in old French medals where a person’s name is part of the design (see pic below). Each medal has a different name. I’m guessing there is a rectangular hole in the lower die where a sub-die with a serial number, person’s name, etc. can inserted. Anyone know for sure? Cal
