My Grampa left this to me. I have ZERO knowledge of coins. Id love to get the info, then I'll know why he left me a coin. I just love holding that much history in my hand! Any/all Info would be greatly appreciated!
Unfortunately Shay what he has left you is a modern fake. Probably made within the past twenty years. It is crudely made and the concept of the rim and inner beaded border was something they didn't use until the 1830's. The lettering style is wrong for the period. Does it have a reeded edge like a modern coin?
Almost certainly intended to deceive, created by a morally-challenged and uninformed yet entrepreneurial spirit.
Why yes, yes it is. These abound in the market. They won't pass a glance from someone knowledgeable, but people like that aren't the target demographic. If the miscreant gets $25 from some rookie taking a chance, they've just made $24.95 and walk away laughing.
Here is the info a the real deal I want to share this webpage with you - http://www.coinfacts.com/silver_dol..._dollars/1795_silver_dollars_draped_bust.html
These were even around when I was kid in the 60's. Many such pieces were easy to find in your local Rexall Drug Store, Ben Franklin Stores and other 5 & 10's. I also remember those huge zinc or aluminum renditions of old coinage. Usually sold four for a dollar or so.