I have a 1983 one-cent penny that has a stamp of MN. on it with MN. In the middle of the stamp. I have never seen this one. If any one have any incite on this stamp it would be greatly appreciated. Have a happy new year all. McGilla
McGilla: Probably an outside the mint stamp to the coin. No additional value, like those with different states punched intothe obverse field.
I agree that it sounds as if done after leaving the mint. However, it is possible that if it is a counterstamp it could add significant value to the coin, although I have not seen modern merchant counterstamps sold. If it can be identified as to who MN is/was, that would increase the value. If it were stamped such as to be a state's abbreviation, then it would have no to minimal additional value as a novelty. Those initials are not listed in my recently published book on counterstamps. Pictures would be helpful. If it appears to be someone's initials, the author of the counterstamp book would be interested in learning of your find.
Cwtokenman,the 'MN' is an abbreviation for 'Montana',as U.S. states have a 2 letter code that is enclosed within the Zip code (or postal codes,as we call them over here in New Zealand) to indicate which state a letter or a parcel is to be delivered to.I have a contact in Florida,so his Zip code starts with 'FL'. Aidan.
Don't feel bad - these are only the Post Office's codes, and do not even necessarily correspond with traditional grammatical abbreviations for the states.
I'm not sure how to post a picture in this form however anyone who would like a picture please let me know.
Its a Novelty item. Not worth much. There's one for sale on eBay.....http://cgi.ebay.com/Novelty-Penny-L...415992QQihZ014QQcategoryZ139962QQcmdZViewItem
