From the Dark Corner: An “Authenticated” Counterfeit 1694 Elephant Token

From the Dark Corner An “Authenticated” Counterfeit 1694 Elephant Token

The 1694 Elephant Token, a fascinating artifact from British numismatic history, has long captivated collectors with its mysterious origin and historical intrigue. Struck to promote the Royal Africa Company, these tokens were initially tied to England’s colonial ventures and trade in Africa. However, their allure has also made them a prime target for counterfeiters, and … Read more

Counterfeit Coin Detection – 1883 Seated Liberty Half Dollar

Counterfeit Coin Detection – 1883 Seated Liberty Half Dollar

The 1883 Seated Liberty Half Dollar is a collector’s favorite, embodying a rich part of U.S. numismatic history. Designed by Christian Gobrecht, the Seated Liberty design graced numerous denominations from the mid-19th century to the late 1800s. While the coin itself is not excessively rare, higher-grade examples are highly sought after, making it an attractive … Read more

The 1972-D No FG Kennedy Half Dollar: A Rare Variety Worth Collecting

The 1972-D No FG Kennedy Half Dollar A Rare Variety Worth Collecting

The Kennedy half dollar, introduced in 1964 to honor the memory of President John F. Kennedy, remains a popular series among numismatists. While most Kennedy half dollars are relatively common, certain varieties and errors pique the interest of collectors. One of the most fascinating is the 1972-D No FG Kennedy half dollar, a rare variety … Read more

Seated Liberty Dollars Are Much Rarer Than Morgan and Peace Dollars

Seated Liberty Dollars Are Much Rarer Than Morgan and Peace Dollars

When it comes to collecting U.S. silver dollars, the Morgan and Peace dollars tend to dominate conversations. Their large mintages and historical significance have made them the centerpiece of many collections. However, seasoned numismatists know that the Seated Liberty dollar, which predates both series, is far rarer and holds a unique place in the history … Read more

Mike Byers Mint Error News – 1942-S Lincoln on Curaçao Cent Planchet

Mike Byers Mint Error News – 1942-S Lincoln on Curaçao Cent PlanchetMike Byers Mint Error News – 1942-S Lincoln on Curaçao Cent Planchet

Mint errors are some of the most fascinating aspects of numismatics, capturing the attention of collectors worldwide. Among the rarest and most intriguing examples is the 1942-S Lincoln cent struck on a Curaçao cent planchet. This mint error combines an iconic American coin design with a foreign planchet, showcasing the unique intersection of human error … Read more

Silver Three Cent Coins: The Lightest American Money

Silver Three Cent Coins The Lightest American Money

The silver three-cent coin, affectionately known as the “trime,” holds a unique place in American numismatic history. Minted from 1851 to 1873, these diminutive coins are notable for being the lightest U.S. coin ever produced, weighing just 0.8 grams. Despite their small size, they played a critical role in the monetary system of mid-19th century … Read more

U.S. Coin Profile – 1838-O Reeded Edge Half Dollar Branch Mint Proof

U.S. Coin Profile – 1838-O Reeded Edge Half Dollar Branch Mint Proof

The 1838-O Reeded Edge Half Dollar is one of the rarest and most enigmatic coins in the history of U.S. numismatics. Struck at the New Orleans Mint, this coin represents a fascinating chapter in the development of branch mint operations and the evolution of U.S. coinage. With only a few known surviving specimens and its … Read more

Q. David Bowers: Brief Notes on Indian Head Cents

Q. David Bowers Brief Notes on Indian Head Cents

The Indian Head Cent, a staple of American numismatic history, has captured the imaginations of collectors and historians alike for over a century. From its debut in 1859 to its final production in 1909, the Indian Head Cent holds a special place in the hearts of coin enthusiasts. Renowned numismatist Q. David Bowers, a leading … Read more

Indian Head $10 Gold Coins: The Other Saint-Gaudens Masterpiece

Indian Head $10 Gold Coins The Other Saint-Gaudens Masterpiece

The Indian Head $10 Gold Coin, often overshadowed by the more famous Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle, is a masterpiece in its own right, representing a significant period in American numismatic history. Minted from 1907 to 1933, the Indian Head $10 Gold Coin, also known as the “Indian Head Eagle,” showcases the brilliance of Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ design … Read more

Liberty Head Half Eagle Gold Coins: A Guide for Collectors

Liberty Head Half Eagle Gold Coins A Guide for Collectors

The Liberty Head Half Eagle gold coin, designed by Christian Gobrecht, holds a special place in American numismatic history. Minted from 1839 to 1908, this $5 gold piece bridged critical eras in U.S. history, spanning the antebellum period, Civil War, and early 20th century. For collectors, these coins offer a fascinating mix of historical significance, … Read more