I bought around 100 IHC's recently - They were about $.10 each and I couldn't pass up such a good deal. Most are rougher, but there are a few good ones, like an 1863 1862, 1874, 1868, 1865, 1859, etc. I have a few questions... First, here is one I found (an 1899). This has to be one of the most beautiful Indian Heads I have ever seen. It is such a beautiful coin and even has full Liberty. First, do you think the woody appearance was original or appeared over time? I have never seen a woody IHC before. Here are some pics: And there is also a 1907 cent. Do you guys know what is going on with the rim? It is much more raised than it should be. I once saw this on a 2014 cent and never could figure out what it was.
Woodies do take time to appear, they are caused by oxidization of the copper. When a copper coin has a mix of different alloy density in it, this effect can happen. The copper "tones/ oxidizes" to different colors because of the mixture of the metal. Coins that have set in storage for a long time can form this toning. Not all coins are able to become Woodies. As for the 1907 , I think the edge has been smushed in due to the coin being in a "Lucky Coin Holder". Look at how long the denticles are along the edge. that is Post Mint Damage.
This is what I mean by a Lucky coin holder. It crimps the coin inside of an aluminium Token and damages the edge of the coin. Your coin has a very smooth uniformed edge, which is indicative of this kind of damage. And yes the '99 is very harshly cleaned, it looks like it was cleaned with acid wash. That is why you can see the wood grain effect.
