I'm new to coin collecting so take this for what it's worth, but this 1890 dime appears to be in excellent condition. The reeded edge looks very clearly defined too, though it's a bit hard to see fully because it's inside a homemade cardboard & plastic case. Looking for opinions on grade & value. What do y'all think??
I am lower than MS. AU details although at first glance I was XF. Uncleaned this could retail for $75. As it is IDK $20.
Nice details as the other member said, but it has been cleaned. These dimes have a habit like a lot of silver they turn black over time unless they are put into some kind of air tight holder . In the late 1800s and early 1900s most of these were left open to the air which causes the metal in the coin to change or oxidize ?, and the surface to turn black. Still a very nice looking coin to add to your collection .I agree with the other members evaluation of your coin. Sadly people do damage to the coins by cleaning them improperly. A lot of people have done major damage thinking that will improve the coins value by cleaning , it reduces the value greatly unless it is properly done. Best choice is to just leave as is.
Are you able to tell from the picture if the coin was cleaned properly/improperly and/or if it was damaged from the cleaning?
The coin appears to have consistent abrasions to the flat parts of the coin. This is usually a sign that the coin was rubbed with a cloth , or something to remove the tarnish from the surface. After you have been around coins for a while , you will be able to tell instantly if a coin has been cleaned or not . Listen to the experts above these guys have years of valuable knowledge , and can easily tell if a coin was cleaned or not. The abrasions are not what you would get from general circulation. Dipping the coin into a cleaning solution will sometimes leave the coin with an odd color which is another way to tell if a coin was cleaned. This is only my opinion maybe somebody with more knowledge will be able to help you to understand how to tell.
Spectacular coin. Well struck. Full head.... And I assume from your avatar that you are a Carolina boy too.. Whoop-whoop!! Welcome!
