1949 Franklin Half Dollar: History and Value

1949 Franklin Half Dollar: History and Value

The Franklin Half Dollar series, introduced in 1948, represents a significant shift in U.S. coinage design, emphasizing simplicity and honoring Benjamin Franklin, one of America’s founding fathers. The 1949 Franklin Half Dollar, the second year of this series, is particularly popular among collectors due to its historical context, design nuances, and rarity in certain grades. … Read more

Counterfeit Coin Detection – 1795 Flowing Hair Half Dime

Counterfeit Coin Detection – 1795 Flowing Hair Half Dime

The 1795 Flowing Hair Half Dime is an early and significant piece of U.S. numismatic history, making it a coveted coin among collectors. As one of the first coins issued by the U.S. Mint, its rarity, historical value, and distinct design make it a prime target for counterfeiters. With the increasing interest in early U.S. … Read more

Higley Coppers: The Talking Coins of Connecticut

Higley Coppers The Talking Coins of Connecticut

Higley Coppers are among the most fascinating and historically significant coins in early American numismatics. These coins were struck in Connecticut in the mid-1700s, long before the U.S. Mint was established. Their rarity, unique design, and ties to the early colonial era make them a prized possession for collectors. What sets them apart is not … Read more

The GSA Hoard of CC-Mint Morgan Silver Dollars

The GSA Hoard of CC-Mint Morgan Silver Dollars

The GSA Hoard is one of the most significant discoveries in the history of coin collecting, specifically for enthusiasts of Morgan silver dollars. In 1972, the United States government made a groundbreaking announcement regarding the release of thousands of previously unknown Morgan silver dollars, the vast majority of which came from the Carson City Mint, … Read more

No-Date Buffalo Nickels: How to Find Their Value

No-Date Buffalo Nickels How to Find Their Value

Buffalo Nickels, minted from 1913 to 1938, are some of the most iconic coins in U.S. history. Their detailed design, featuring a Native American profile on the obverse and an American bison on the reverse, has made them a favorite among collectors. However, a common issue with Buffalo Nickels is the wear on their date. … Read more

The 1888 Morgan Dollar: Key Varieties & Prices

The 1888 Morgan Dollar Key Varieties & Prices

The 1888 Morgan Dollar is a fascinating coin for collectors, thanks to its rich history and notable varieties. Struck during the heyday of the Morgan Dollar series (1878–1921), the 1888 issue represents a crucial piece of U.S. numismatic history. Its variations, especially the famous 1888-O “Hot Lips” variety and other rarities, make it an enduring … Read more

The Story of the 1973/74 Aluminum Lincoln Penny

The Story of the 197374 Aluminum Lincoln Penny

The 1973/74 Aluminum Lincoln Penny is one of the most fascinating and mysterious coins in the history of American numismatics. This rare and unique coin is part of a series of experimental issues that have captured the attention of collectors, numismatists, and historians alike. The story of the aluminum penny revolves around the U.S. Mint’s … Read more

PCGS Certifies Coins From Legendary Harry W. Bass Collection

PCGS Certifies Coins From Legendary Harry W. Bass Collection

The Harry W. Bass Collection remains one of the most celebrated private numismatic collections in the history of U.S. coinage. Featuring some of the rarest and most sought-after coins ever struck by the U.S. Mint, the collection is a testament to Bass’s passion for numismatics and his unyielding commitment to acquiring pieces of historical significance. … Read more

A Neat Knick-Knack – Counterfeit 1842 Dahlonega Gold Half Eagle

A Neat Knick-Knack – Counterfeit 1842 Dahlonega Gold Half Eagle

The 1842 Dahlonega Gold Half Eagle is a cherished artifact of Southern gold coinage. Struck at the Dahlonega Mint in Georgia, which operated from 1838 to 1861, these coins embody the unique history of gold production in the region. With only 4,643 coins minted in 1842, the Half Eagle is rare and highly sought after … Read more

Counterfeit Coin Detection – Authenticating the 1909-S V.D.B. Cent

Counterfeit Coin Detection – Authenticating the 1909-S V.D.B. Cent

The 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent is one of the most iconic and sought-after coins in American numismatics. Its combination of low mintage, historical significance as the debut year of the Lincoln Cent, and the controversy surrounding designer Victor David Brenner’s initials make it highly desirable to collectors. Unfortunately, its popularity has also made it a … Read more