I was looking through a dealer's stock of mint sets and while flipping through some of the unboxed sets, I happened upon this Sacagawea. At first I thought it was odd that it would tarnish in a sealed mint set, but when I picked it up to look, I found this toning. It looks like the cent and nickel have the slightest bit of coloration to them as well but nothing to write home about. There is some splotchy blue toning on the front, but nothing like the red/browns with blue swirls on the reverse. The only bit of normal coloration is near the eagles breast. Now the question to solve my curiosity: is it somewhat common to see toned coins in modern mint sets? Especially sealed ones as this one has no tears or rips that I can see. Thanks to all who look and answer!
Although it is not very common, it obviously does happen. The mint plastic does offer some protection, but it is far from air tight. So the coins are subject to the air conditions. In certain environments, they will tone quickly. Was the obverse toned similar to the reverse?
I'll agree nicely toned Sackys are certainly not common. But to a large degree that is because the mint covers them with a protective coating after they are struck, specifically to help prevent toning and spotting.
Thanks guys! I have no idea what environment the Sac was in that made it tone, but hooray that it did! I did an ebay search to get a feel for how many are out there and indeed not many at all. Lots of AT Sacs, but very few genuinely toned examples. gbroke: As for the front, see the pic below. Nothing like the back but it does have a bit more of a splotchier blue toning. GDJMSP: Was that coating put on regular circulation strikes as well? If so I have a very low regard for that coating since I've literally handled a Sac one day and woke up to see it tarnished and brown the next. One of the most touchy coins ever.
Yes it was. Still is I believe. And them being touchy is exactly why they did it. The alloy they used is the most reactive coinage alloy ever used.
