I have a question on this coin http://cgi.ebay.com/1801-Large-Cent-VF-no-reserve_W0QQitemZ280100083161QQihZ018QQcategoryZ11947QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem#ebayphotohosting. Has it been treated with something - it just seems so dark, but I am not sure about it. I have noticed a couple of other coins by this seller and others that look like this. I see what could be corrosion underneath the surface - not sure if I am describing this correctly. Just trying to understand what I am seeing - it just doesn't seem right to me. Am I wrong? Is this a re-coloring job?
Looks to me like it may have been cleaned IMO The seller had a lot of other Large cents he is selling on e bay
It could be - it just looks wrong to me, so I typically stay away from auctions like that. Of course that does not mean that there is a problem - just that I am unsure of the coin. One of the reasons I am asking.
You are correct. This coin has been worked and recolored -- I would guess the color is the result of Dellers Darkener. The even (and characteristic too-chocolate) color despite the wear is the giveaway. You will find many coins like this as the practice of working and recoloring copper is all-to-common. On the bright side -- but not condoning the actions of those who would do so -- I'm sure the coin looks better than it did before curation as it looks to have been corroded too. Unless the price is VERY right, these are coins I would stay away from as a more original and less problematic coin should be available if one is patient (and is comfortable paying what it takes to get a nice one). Even the budget conscious should be able to find a better example (less corrosion and/or less obvious recoloring). All IMHO, and respectfully submitted...Mike
I agree that the coin which appears to a Metal Detector find, has been cleaned and retoned! The smoothness of the surfaces even with the underlying corrosion which is highly evident and the even chocolate color are dead giveaways. Frank
