Hey Everyone, I found this 1959 Jefferson Nickel on an improperly annealed planchet while roll searching a while back. It is in pretty nice shape with a few contact marks, pretty much looks dark brown/black in hand. In my research I have found these to be called "Black Beautys" and at some point they were sold on the home shopping networks for like $300 each. I am trying to find out any additional information and your thoughts on grade and value. Thanks! J
Something going on HSN at $300? Pause for reflection...... Seriously, perhaps others will chim in with more enlightenment.
haha yeah I know which is why I am asking for values here! Let's see HSN charging $300... hopefully it's worth at least 3 or 4 bucks!!
I IAP do not have large premiums over face I am not sure, but i think there may be full steps on Monticello, which is another error.
1st full steps are NOT an error 2nd steps are not full and to the OP an improperly annealed nickel would go for $5 and up depending upon condition
Do you know what annealing is? The process of heating and slowly cooling a metal object to make it harder. Therefore, an improperly annealed planchet wasn't heated or cooled correctly. In the case of these so-called "black beauties", the planchet was overheated, IIRC.
Actually it is to make it softer, so it will strike up better. No, an improperly annealed planchet is one that captures the copper ions and copper dust left in the annealing furnace from when cents were being annealed. The copper, when baked onto the planchet, turns the planchet dark. As for the term "black beauties", when used regarding these coins it is a misnomer.
