The 1954-S Franklin Half Dollar stands as a key issue in the mid-20th-century American coinage, showcasing both historical significance and appeal for collectors. This coin, struck at the San Francisco Mint, is a member of the popular Franklin Half Dollar series, which ran from 1948 to 1963. Designed by John R. Sinnock, the series honors … Read more
The discovery of counterfeit coins slipping past professional authentication services is always a chilling reminder of how sophisticated the forgery trade has become. One notable case involves a counterfeit 1872-S Liberty Seated Half Dollar—a coin of great historical and numismatic significance. Despite being encapsulated and authenticated by a major grading service, the coin was ultimately … Read more
The world of coin collecting is filled with intrigue, and few stories captivate collectors more than those of counterfeit coins slipping past even the most experienced eyes. One such tale involves a suspect counterfeit of the 1799 Draped Bust Dollar—an iconic piece of early American coinage. Despite being authenticated by a third-party grading service, the … Read more
The 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel is one of the most intriguing and sought-after coins in U.S. numismatics. Known for its dramatic overdate—a clear “7” beneath the “8” in the date—it is a coveted prize among collectors. However, its desirability and high value make it a prime target for counterfeiters. Detecting fake examples of the 1918/7-D Buffalo … Read more
Jefferson Nickels, first introduced in 1938, are one of the longest-running coin series in the United States Mint’s history. They are renowned for their enduring design and are a staple in most coin collections. One unique feature of Jefferson Nickels is the changing location of their mint marks over the years, reflecting significant periods in … Read more
The year 1936 represents a pivotal moment in the history of United States commemorative coinage. Known as the height of the “classic commemorative coin wave,” this year saw an unprecedented number of coins issued, catering to both numismatic enthusiasts and opportunistic promoters. While these coins were initially created to honor significant historical events, individuals, and … Read more
The New Orleans Mint holds a special place in American numismatic history. As the epicenter of Southern coin production from 1838 to 1909, it minted some of the most iconic silver coins, from Seated Liberty coins to Morgan dollars. Q. David Bowers, a celebrated name in the world of numismatics, often highlights the charm and … Read more
The world of numismatics is full of surprises, and one coin that consistently intrigues collectors is the 1844-O $10 Gold Half Eagle. Minted in New Orleans, this coin represents a fascinating chapter in U.S. history, not only for its rarity and historical significance but also for a puzzling pricing anomaly that leaves collectors scratching their … Read more
The world of numismatics is filled with fascinating tales of history, artistry, and the people who have helped coins gain cultural and financial significance. One such story revolves around Booker T. Washington, the celebrated educator, author, and civil rights leader, and the commemorative half dollars issued in his honor. Dubbed “Booker T. on the Tarmac,” … Read more
The 1937 Texas Half Dollar Commemorative Coin holds a special place in numismatics due to its unique design and historical context. Issued to commemorate the Texas Centennial of Independence from Mexico, these coins were minted between 1934 and 1938. While authentic examples are sought after by collectors, counterfeit versions have made their way into the … Read more