I ordered some 1963P BU Lincoln Cents,which arrived today. Upon viewing them I noticed blue spotting all over them. At first I thought it was paint but under the microscope it appears more as the coins were chemically treated. I've never seen anything like this on any of my pennies. I realize the 1963 was notorious for carbon spots but these are not carbon spots. I don't know what it is. I'm hoping you all can give me some insight to what occurred with these pennies before I contact the seller.
Not sure what the blue spots are but that coin doesn't look BU, seems to have a lot of hits/scratches.
As unpleasant as it sounds. I believe somebody sneezed on them. It happens and unfortunately doesn’t appear as discoloration immediately. They were set aside and the spittle did its silent work.
I am not a metallurgist, but it may be toning due to oxidation in a humid salty coastal climate or perhaps some contact with sulphuric acid. I would return them if unsatisfied.
I almost said that, but it made me sick to even think about it. I'm glad someone else thought the same thing I did.
that's gross Hey, they're only 55 years old. Doesn't make sense that ppl can't buy an unlimited amount of 55 year old BU coins ?? right ??
Uncirculated means one thing, there is no evidence of circulation. The coin looks fine from the standpoint that there is no wear. After all MS60 coins and MS70 coins are both uncirculated, but don't really look alike. Copper is an active metal and reacts with a myriad of things in the environment. If you want to keep copper coins bright and red...good luck.
Besides the last two photos, which the coin looks the have a massive scratch near the top right, I agree with you. In my opinion, uncirculated details does not quality as "BU". The first coin is probably straight grade uncirculated, even though Lincoln took a hit on the nose.
I though I read somewhere that MS70 cleaner can leave blue spots on a copper coin if not applied correctly.
Thanks to all who responded. Seller made it right by refunding me all my $ and even let me keep the pennies. I added them to the recycle bag to go back out into the world.
This is a controversial topic as some MS70ed pieces appear blue/purple and others show no changes at all. Regardless, this is not the "MS70" look.