Fake or legit 1897 Indian Head penny?

lordmarcovan · Jan 16, 2018

E Pluribus Unum said: ↑

When I was collecting Lincoln cents as a kid, I was told to soak them in vinegar (i.e., acetic acid) to brighten up the color. The vinegar did brighten up the color; however, I could never get the original mint red color. Instead, the copper coins appeared flat or dull with a slight gray hue. The color of this coin reminds me of my "vinegar-dipped" Lincolns.

The difference in color between a red BU cent and dipped cent is very obvious. In contrast, it can be difficult to tell if a silver coin has been dipped (in sulfuric acid/thiourea). Is there a dipping solution for copper coins that I am unaware of? Or are people dipping copper coins unknowingly?

I am asking this question here since the OP has provided a nice photograph of an acid-dipped or acid-treated copper cent - especially the photo of the reverse.
Click to expand...

I agree. This one has that look.

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Fake or legit 1897 Indian Head penny?

lordmarcovan 48-year collector Moderator

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Fake or legit 1897 Indian Head penny?

lordmarcovan 48-year collector Moderator

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