I've seen one on the internet in terrible condition but no one seems to know anything about it or if it's worth anything???
That's what I was thinking too. I can't see any pitting that the acid usually leaves behind though. Maybe if the pictures were closer...?
Photos are not good enough to be conclusive, but I remain skeptical, the denticles are there on the reverse (if not longer than normal), yet the diameter seems reduced. The reverse is in decent condition, in fact, the strike is full. I suspect an acid bath with this coin, perhaps with the reverse facing down and protected on a surface in the bath.
would acid not compromise the circumference of the coin?? Or am I delusional? Could be I am blonde... No offence
It is an acid coin, and yes, for a constant composition ( Not clad) , the acid will reduce all dimensions equally unless one coats one side with an acid resistant material ( certain waxes work well), so the amount lost in height compared to the normal should be close to the difference in diameter from normal. Since copper cents are quite reactive, the depths of the devices reduce close enough to keep the original details of the coin.
is there a way to test it to see if acid has been used, I would like to know because I've seen more of the same on the internet?
The reduction in diameter and thickness can't be reproduced by any regular minting process(es), so such would be considered as post mint damage. People make them for fun or profit. If the acid is washed with water or alkaline washes, there would be no chemical remains detectable as acid actions.
