The owner of this capped bust half dollar is not sure if this coin is authentic or not. Does anyone have an opinion based on the photos alone?
Initially, I didn't like the look of the reverse, and thought it might be a counterfeit struck from artfully hand cut dies. How wrong I was . . . that reverse appears to match the following: http://images.pcgs.com/CoinFacts/83950668_64817090_max.jpg
The way things are today, I can't keep up with what is fake or real. You can research the coin and still be wrong. The bad guys just keep getting better.
Sure looks real to me. But I'm no pro. The only concerns I see are the raised dot under her chin, and the E in United. Is there a variety with these markers?
Thanks for the input! The coin has now been analyzed by a qualified dealer (weight, edge writing and metal composition analysis) who suggest it being authentic. Think the grade is AU-ish. Its has most likely been cleaned at some point though - how much would that affect the value/attractiveness for you?
I arrived at the same place (when I open a Bust Half thread, I attribute it before reading any responses). The dot at the throat, among other details, would be difficult to get right in a transfer die/cast counterfeit and even harder for "original" counterfeit dies. Technical merit, to me, is on the good side of XF and the images aren't representative enough of actual appearance to form a good opinion of eye appeal. It has a lack of visible marks going for it, but looks like the black spots used to cover more of the surfaces.
I agree with 1832 CBH Overton -113. Die Dot at Throat Prong on Wing tip VF-XF Probably a very old cleaning, but nice circulated gray coloring. Looks authentic-genuine to me.
Thank you all for your inputs! I now also have photos of the edge - and it says " FIFTY CENTS O(RA)LF A DOLLAR" where letters "RA" is stamped on top of each other. Is this a common mistake or anything to worry about authenticity vice?
I have a nice looking 1830 Half Dollar, but it has FIFTY CKNTS OR HALF A DOLLAR written on its edge. CENTS is spelled CKNTS. Fake??
First, welcome to the neighborhood, Robert! It would be best if you started your own thread with good, clear photos of both sides and the edge.
It looks to be genuine, but cleaned. You can't know for sure because the color is a bit "funky." Someone needs to look at in person.
