1863 Indian Head Cent Stamped C.F.B.

I recently got given this coin; it's not a mint error, but apparently was stamped at a later time with the initials or abbreviation C.F.B If you look closely, it looks like the last .B is stamped twice and maybe the F as well. The coin is in fairly nice shape except for this stamp. I've looked around and haven't been able to find anything on it. Anyone ever seen something similar? I wouldn't think the stamp was done anytime recently as the coin is old and has some value. Just curious for people's opinions. Thanks

 

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It's a countermark or counterstamp. Lots out there on older coins, and some people collect them, while others can't get by the 'post-mint damage' aspect of them. Search ebay current and past for 'Indian head counterstamp' and you'll get some hits.

 

Your example could of been given that counterstamp anytime between 1863 and the day before you acquired it.. Only the person who did it would know when.

Here is a counterstamped IHC from my collection..

R M


Google - Counterstamp Indian Head Cent and you will see plenty of examples of them

 

that's 2 out of my 3 initials. I'd be interested if it was all 3.

 

Just change your name so it will match. Lol

As for the OP, it’s counter stamped as already mentioned. Only the person that did it knows for sure.

 

Cool. Thanks for the info...I'd never heard of counterstamping before. I got the coin from my grandfather. He didn't know what it was, but he was very interested when I told him what it was.

 

Putting stamps on coins was a popular thing back in the day. It was used to identify/advertise businesses and sometimes allowed the spender to reap added benefits when spent with that store. But of course many were just stamped with peoples initials for the "fun" of it, so who knows.
Here are some links that you may find interesting:
Money.org
Counter stamped coins C.F. Bowman appears on this list.

 

Thanks. I found another list that lists a C. F. Bacon. No way to tell for sure, but it's interesting to look in to

 

As you're beginning to see, identifying random counterstamped initials can be incredibly difficult. Your best hope is to match the letter punch size/font/characteristics EXACTLY to known examples such as the CF Bacon you referenced. Sometimes you get lucky and find a broken serif or chip, but most of the time, its impossible to ID. That's why you rarely see these identified in references like Brunk.

Best of luck