I recently purchased a 1909-S Lincoln cent that is in VF20 condition. If it's tilted just right in very bright light, it has a bit of a golden shine to it. Under normal light, or if not held at the "correct angle" it has a normal brown appearance. Could it have been lightly cleaned? Or is it just as likely that this coin simple wore naturally this way? I realize I have no photos to show you. Furthermore, if I study the coin under a 10X loop, I don't see any abrasions or shine spots. Am I being too picky? What is the spectrum of natural toning on copper coins? Thanks............... Houston_Ray
It's very hard to say without pictures, but I have seen copper tone a lot of different colors in a lot of different ways. Copper can lighten if cleaned with acetone, so that may be the cause.
A VF20 Lincoln that has some red in it is more than likely the result of dipping and or some type of cleaning. Pretty much the last high grade with a hint of red is AU grades. As for the red tint, well there are tons of old wheaties that have been dipped/cleaned over the years.
I'm going to say that its either been cleaned or maybe its a place where someone rubbed it till it shined...I keep in my pocket a 1891-O Morgan dollar that is sooo worn it wouldn't even be AG- but its shiny and has never been cleaned. Maybe it would be worth it to send it to ANACS and see what they say. Speedy
