I've bought plenty of $2 1/2 in bezels, but this is my first like this. I had to buy it just because I was curious what it was. It almost looked like a clear resin was dropped onto the coin, permanently sealing it inside. It has a rubbery feel to it. I had to cut the bezel to open it, and it turned out to be two cup shaped soft plastic pieces, almost like contacts. Seems like it protected the coin pretty well too! Has anyone seen coins in bezels like this before?
I don't think so. It looks like it protected the coin from the bezel. I will try to get some better pictures shortly.
I've seen similar ultra-thin disks used to protect coins and medals, but I never knew where they were made. I acquired a pair of California Parks and Recreation medals in 2005 that had a similar cover. I didn't realize the covers were there until after I received the package. Note that the unprotected side toned from contact with the presentation case. Whoever came up with the idea of having a jeweler mount the coin in the bezel with the plastic cover still on it was pretty smart. Chris
I have one that is identical to your bezel, but the coin is not nearly as nice. I forget the date offhand, but it was nothing special. It was a melting pot rescue and purchased at spot price in the late nineties.
Interesting! They did not snap together, but maybe it's because there are none designed exactly for this coin?
I have seen bezels holding gold flakes like that, in fact I gave some of them to my wife a few years ago but she prefers the $10 Liberty to wear.