I snagged this guy off of ebay last week. Here is a little info about these 1889 counterstamps. http://www.numismaster.com/ta/numis/Article.jsp?ad=article&ArticleId=4807
Cool looking coin. The toning, lack of wear and the prints all give it a great look. Wonder how it was stored. Leather pouch? I like it.
I was watching this one. Honestly you got it at a good price, probably a good $100 or so below what you would expect for it. It may be a fantasy piece but it still sure is an interesting one. I'm curious as to the inconsistency of the dates. These seem to be known for Morgan dollars dated after 1889.
It looks like someone took the time to make a precise strike. Something not always seen on a counterstamped coin. Nice pick up.
I'd want a specialist to look at it. I have some odd feeling about the counterstamp. The coin is not heavilay circulated and the counterstamp is deep and heavy, yet the details in the stamp are vague, especially the legends. I would be concerned that the counterstamp my not be real. According to the article the counterstamp was well detailed and that doesn't seem to be the case here.
The "Unusual world coins" book lists these as 1960's fantasy pieces that were done with a genuine countermark punch. Perhaps refurbishing of the punch is responsible for the difference in details?
