Hello all. I'm new to the Coin Talk forum. I need advice from an expert(s) on a find that I made today. I found a 1928 Walking Liberty Half dollar while metal detecting. Looking at the red book, I see that if this coin were uncirculated mint it would be worth $10,500. However, in G-4 condition (and I'm not sure this coin even qualifies at that rating) it is worth $7. My question is, should I tumble this coin so I can make it nice and shiny and pretty to look at, or should I leave it as it with its patina and saltwater corrosion (yep, found it buried in the rocks at the beach)? Thank you for any advice you can provide. Kimster
Hi Kimster, and welcome to coingtalk! Well, by "cleaning" a coin, it may seem nicer, but the grade will not really improve. You'd actually lessen the value by cleaning it. Then again, the entire coin is corroded anyway, so it's not as bad.
I say you do whatever you want with that coin. You really can't lower the value any further. It's actually worth around $10 for just the silver in it.
I need to get my detector out soon but with all this snow and freezing temps it's going to have to wait.
Hmmmmm...quid essential environmental corrosion. I'd soak this Walker in some olive oil for about 6 months. It might stabilize the active corrosion.
That year has two varieties the large "S" and small "S". Just scrap sliver would be about $14.00, so that's the lowest value if cleaned. Nice find. -O)
