@Exskywarrior I'm particularly bothered by the 4th-7th left-hand stars. Note how the toning encircles each one. Chris
That is strange, and now when I look closer at the photo I see faint traces of the same circular pattern on all of the stars and the pimple between E and Pluribus. Hmmmm I hope I didn't get sc--w-d.
Genuine toning tends to be sooth w/o blotches. However, anything is possible. In any case IMO, this coin would be "Details" grated as AT.
Similar circle pattern around the stars. Seller said these coins had been stored in an oak box. Maybe there was a doctor in the house..............
Pardon me but YUCK! Now, I'm going to talk to you like a brother...TOUGH LOVE. You should not be buying any coins that are not slabbed by a major grading service until you learn more about coins. Your second coin is a great teaching piece: 1. One of the keys to altered coins is what seminar instructors call "halo effect." You have correctly pointed out the "circles" that form the halo around parts of the relief. This is often seen when a chemical dries on the surface or when the buffing wheel cannot get into the crevices where the relief meets the field. 2. The reverse is polished (possibly even whizzed). Natural coins are not that color of shiny gray. 3. The obverse is PVC stained OR the discoloration is more of the chemical that appears to be wiped on to the coin (possibly to hide the polishing). Hope this helps...Show us more of your collection.
Better to experiment with second coin as it is only worth "melt." Better yet, ask seller to get you another coin OR you will not buy anything from him again.
Oh Lordy now you're wanting me to embarrass myself. Thank --- I don't have a bunch of money involved.
Sorry, I assumed you knew a little more than you do. The SHAPE of the numerals in the date are very crude. Get out a hand lens and compare them to those on a genuine coin.