Counterfeit Coin Detection – 1876-CC 20 Cent Piece

Counterfeit Coin Detection – 1876-CC 20 Cent Piece

The 1876-CC 20 Cent Piece is one of the most desirable coins in U.S. numismatics, owing to its low mintage, historical significance, and unique design. Produced during a short-lived experiment with a denomination between the dime and quarter, the 20-cent coin remains a target for counterfeiters attempting to capitalize on its rarity and value. Learning … Read more

The 1893 Isabella Quarter: Commemorative Stories

The 1893 Isabella Quarter Commemorative Stories

The 1893 Isabella Quarter holds a special place in numismatic history as the first U.S. coin to depict a real woman and as a unique piece of the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This distinctive quarter is packed with historical significance, reflecting the era’s cultural and economic ambitions while capturing the public’s fascination with commemorative … Read more

The Mystery of the 1964-D Peace Dollar

The Mystery of the 1964-D Peace Dollar

The 1964-D Peace Dollar is one of the most enigmatic coins in U.S. numismatic history. Though it was authorized and briefly struck, none of these coins are known to exist today—legally, at least. This coin represents a fascinating mix of politics, economics, and intrigue, captivating collectors and historians alike. A Coin Born from Controversy The … Read more

Counterfeit Coin Detection – 1908-S Counterfeit Indian Head Cent

Counterfeit Coin Detection – 1908-S Counterfeit Indian Head Cent

The 1908-S Indian Head Cent holds a unique place in American numismatics. It was the first Indian Head Cent minted at the San Francisco Mint, bearing the sought-after “S” mintmark. With a modest mintage of 1,115,000, it is one of the key dates in the Indian Head Cent series, making it highly collectible. Unfortunately, its … Read more

Classic US Gold Coin Profile – The 1795 Small Eagle Half Eagle

Classic US Gold Coin Profile – The 1795 Small Eagle Half Eagle

The 1795 Small Eagle Half Eagle is one of the most iconic and historically significant gold coins ever produced by the United States Mint. As the first gold coin struck by the fledgling nation, it carries both immense historical importance and extraordinary appeal for collectors. With its classic design and connection to the early years … Read more

Q. David Bowers: The Curious 1817 Cent With 15 Stars

Q. David Bowers The Curious 1817 Cent With 15 Stars

The 1817 Large Cent, featuring 15 stars on the obverse, is a fascinating anomaly that captures the attention of both seasoned collectors and numismatic historians. Its peculiar design error offers a glimpse into the minting processes of the early 19th century and highlights the challenges faced by the U.S. Mint in its infancy. Legendary numismatist … Read more

New Die Variety for the 1843-O Liberty Seated Half Dollar

For collectors of Liberty Seated coinage, the discovery of a new die variety is always an exciting event. The 1843-O Liberty Seated Half Dollar has recently captured the attention of numismatists with the identification of a previously undocumented die variety, further enriching the lore of this series. This discovery sheds light on the minting practices … Read more

1857 Braided Hair Half Cent: A Collector’s Guide

1857 Braided Hair Half Cent A Collector’s Guide

The 1857 Braided Hair Half Cent stands as a significant piece in U.S. numismatic history, not only as one of the last half cents ever struck but also as a symbol of a changing economy. The half cent denomination, first minted in 1793, played an essential role in early American commerce. By 1857, however, its … Read more

The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent: A Popular Yet Controversial Coin

The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent A Popular Yet Controversial Coin

The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and numismatists. It is one of the most sought-after coins in U.S. numismatics, boasting a unique combination of rarity, historical importance, and controversy. This small copper coin was the first of its kind to bear the image of a president, as … Read more

Commemorative Coin Stories: 1982 George Washington Half Dollar

Commemorative Coin Stories 1982 George Washington Half Dollar

The 1982 George Washington Half Dollar marked a revival of U.S. commemorative coinage after a 28-year hiatus, introducing a fresh approach to celebrating America’s heritage. This coin was not only significant for its commemoration of the 250th anniversary of George Washington’s birth but also for its role in revitalizing a long-dormant numismatic tradition. Its historical … Read more