I am looking for anyone that has experience with 19th century foreign proofs. Sometimes these are difficult to identify since the mirror like fields are deeply toned. Specifically I'm looking at a 1869 Jamaica Half Penny. It is unquestionably unc but hard to tell if it is proof. Any tricks to tell? I don't have any photos to post ask of now.
You will have to show photo`s. Is it copper-nickel or brass ? There was also a Pattern 1869 struck in brass.
The coin I am looking has the same color as this heritage auction if that narrows anything down. http://coins.ha.com/itm/jamaica/world-coins/jamaica-victoria-half-penny-1869-/a/3005-21610.s
That is not going to help us much because your coin is not that coin. A photo of your coin would help us tell you if your coin is a proof. I would need a photo of your coin to help. I hope it is proof, good luck!
The point of my showing the auction is that different metals/alloys have different colors many times. Daveydempsey mentioned 2 metallic compositions so that might be the case here. If not then the pic is of no help.
The one in the Heritage link has the typical color of a copper-nickel Jamaican coin. If your coin is is an uncirculated proof it should have reflective looking fields and somewhat frosty looking surfaces. Basically what would be considered proof-like by modern standards. Also well struck, squared rims that are higher in relief than normal strikes.
