The Coin Doc's Questions and Answers

Email Address: epc@net.dialog.dk
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Your Name: Erik Christensen
Your Question: Where can I find information concerning the coins from the old german colony in China, Tsingtao?

All two of them! The Kiaochow (there are several spellings of this area) was a trading enclave located on the Shantung Penninsula of eastern China (Tsingtao). The German's under the pretext of the murder of two German missionaries occupied Kiaochow Bay and then strong armed the Chinese to give them a lease on this 177 square mile area. The German's even charged tariffs to move goods from the port to the interior.

The two coins made under Wilhelm II were a copper-nickel 5 cent and 10 cent coin dated 1909. Both coins were also issued in proof. Though they are scarce, the uncirculated pieces can be had for around US$100. The proofs will set you back about $400 each.

What is Tsingtao famous for now? Beer!

Email Address: drloosem@mtu.edu
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Your Name: Danny Loosemore
Your Question: Just a simple question... I have in my possession a Massachusetts Pine Tree Shilling-Small Planchet 1652... I was wondering if you could tell me how much its worth... it is in pretty good shape... all the words are legible and the picture of the tree is raised still, hasn't yet been worn down... Could you let me know? Thanks... Danny

This a very rare and valuable coin. estimate: $800 to about $4,000 depending on grade. It's usually not found in higher than Extra Fine condition. It should be authenticated by The American Numismatic Association. Please see their link on our Numismatic Links page.

Comments: Very good
Email Address: tlee@worldnet.att.net
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Your Name: Jonathan Lee
Your Question: About 7 years ago, My father traveled to Germany. Just couple days before he was coming back to USA. One of his German friends gave him an bank note. It Reihe 1 on the upper left corner, and has a green pring of Reichsbanknote on the upper central side of the paper money. On the middle-right side of the note. There is a green picture of a lady with long hair. Under the Lady, there is a "50" sign. On the lower left side of the note, there are two seals and between the seals there is some kind of writing. Above the writing and the seals, it prints "Berlin, den 24. June 1919"
"Reichsbankdirektorium"
Its serial number is in 6 digits.
Can you please tell me about how much this bank note would worth in the current market?

The German Imperial Bank Note that you have (Pick Cat#66) was issued in large numbers before the great inflation of the following years (1920-23). There seems to be a large number of these notes available. They probably became monetarily worthless rather quickly. They make nice souvenirs as the engraving is quite ornate. Value? In new condition, no folds, 4 sharp corners-about US$5, though catalog shows more. Circulated, free or a bit cheaper.
Note that this note is inexpensive and so are others, with a few exceptions, of this series and the following Weimer Republic notes.... but they are VERY HISTORIC and they are important witnesses to the events leading up to WW II. This is what paper money collecting is all about!

Email Address: klecuye@ibm.net
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Your Name: Kevin L'Ecuyer
Your Question: I am looking for information in regards to a 1775 large coin from Britain with" Georgivs III. rex" on the face and a female warrier facing left on back. Do you have any information on this coin?

The coin you have sounds like a copper half penny from Great Britain. It features the head of King George III facing right (REX means king) and on the reverse, Britannia seated on a rock holding a trident in her left hand (symbol of Neptune and the sea), the shield of Britain leaning against the rock. This particular date is scarce in uncirculated condition and worth under $20 in circulated grades.

Comments: Excellent!
Email Address: matthew@candc.co.uk
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Your Name: Matthew Phillips
Your Question: Hi,
I would be grateful if you could tell me if any of the following coins are particularly valuable. Are they worth more than their gold weight? The third column is (what I think is) the mint mark.

USA

$20 1924 Cthro'A Liberty standing/Eagle
$20 1925 Cthro'A Liberty standing/Eagle
$10 1882 Shield/Liberty profile
$20 1874 Shield/Liberty profile
$20 1900 Shield/Liberty profile
all mint

The third column isn't the mint mark, that would be a small letter above the date on the St. Gaudens pieces (dated after 1907) and below the wreath on the back on the earlier coins. The lack of a mint mark would indicate the Philadelphia Mint. Other possible Mint marks would be "D" for Denver, Colorado, "S" for San Francisco. On the Liberty $20 (1907 and before), possible mints could also include "O" for New Orleans, Louisiana and "CC" for Carson City, Nevada. Yes, if they are uncirculated they would bring a 30% premium or more over the metal content. High quality pieces MS64 or better grades would bring even more.

Germany

20M 1874 B WILHELM DEUTSCHER KAISER KONIG V. PREUSSEN mint
20M 1878 A WILHELM DEUTSCHER KAISER KONIG V. PREUSSEN mint
20M 1876 F KARL KOENIG VOM WUERTEMBERG
20M 1897 A WILHELM II DEUTSCHER KAISER KONIG V. PREUSSEN mint
20M 1902 A WILHELM II DEUTSCHER KAISER KONIG V. PREUSSEN
20M 1910 A WILHELM II DEUTSCHER KAISER KONIG V. PREUSSEN mint
10M 1877 A WILHELM DEUTSCHER KAISER KONIG V. PREUSSEN
10M 1900 D OTTO KOENIG VON BAYERN

Although some of these are better dates, they are often found in quanity and most are traded close to their metal content

France

F20 1857 A Wreath/NAPOLEON III EMPEREUR Barre
F20 1907 Cockrel/REPUBLIQUE FRANCAISE J C Chaplain mint
F20 1908 Cockrel/REPUBLIQUE FRANCAISE J C Chaplain mint
F10 1900 Cockrel/REPUBLIQUE FRANCAISE JCC
F10 1907 Cockrel/REPUBLIQUE FRANCAISE JCC

The above French 20 Francs are regularly traded bullion items

joris.bouman@veronica.nl (Joris Bouman) writes: Hi, Do you happen to have a picture of the new Italian 1000 lire coin? If so could you mail me the url? Thank you! Joris Bouman Hilversum Holland

I don't have a picture but you could try searching for the Rome Mint on any of the on-line search engines. You can also check World Coin News, they usually publish photos of new coins.

Email_Address: ggass@esu17.esu17.k12.ne.us
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Your Name: GREG GASS
Your Question: I have an 1889S and 1990S Morgan in uncirculated condition. I would like to know the approximate value.

There are 10 grades used for Mint State Coins, MS60-69 (MS70 is theoretical), so there can be a wide latitude in value depending on the actual quality. For example, a uncirculated 1889-S Morgan Dollar between the grades of MS60-65 would range it price from about $60 to $850. Applying the same criteria, the 1890-S ranges from about $15 to about $450.

Email Address: mlyons52@ix.netcom.com
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Your Name: lori lyons
Your Question: I know someone who found coin and is curious to the value. it was described to me as a 1898 indian head dime. any ideas? i really appreciate any information, or even the name or location of a site where i could find out more information. Thanks so much!

There are no "Indian Head" dimes, but there is a cent that was minted from 1859 to 1907. It features an Indian with feathered headdress and the words LIBERTY across the band, a wreath encloses ONE CENT on the reverse. Check out CoinSite's Frequently Asked Questions About Coins on the FAQ for more information.

Comments: This is the first time I have been at this site. So far, so good. Went to Lycos first, big mistake as they were no help at all.
Email Address: slperry@flash.net
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Your Name: stacey
Your Question: How much are 1939-1954 silver dimes and quarters worth? Also, I have some old, foreign paper money and was wondering where would a good place, locally be to find out the value? Any help w/be much appreciated.

Dimes were 90% silver until 1964. After that year, they are copper and nickel. Circulated dimes, quarters and half dollars are common and trade at approximately the value of their silver content. At about $5 silver that makes them worth about three times face value.
Like coins, rarity and condition and demand is what establishes value. Paper money should be evaluated by an expert in that area. Try looking in your local area first. You may also want to check out our Numismatic Links Page.

JanBSmith@WORLDNET.ATT.NET (Janice Smith) writes: Do the following pieces of paper currency have any monetary value? 1. $10.00 bill, The Central Bank of China, 1928 American Bank Note Company. The side with English writing has a picture of a Chinese leader (?). The other side is written in Chinese with a large 'logo' instead of the Chinese leader's picture. The English side also has National Currency, Shanghai below the picture. condition is good, circulated.

This is a very common note (P197) and is almost worthless in circulated condition....lots of notes probably left over at ABNC.

2. $2.00 Rupees, Reserve Bank of India. There is no year of issue. However, one side has a blank frame on the right third with C D Deshmakh (sp) signature below it. The center third has the Reserve Bank on India with the words 2 Rupees. The right third has a picture of the governor(?). These numbers appear in the bottom center margin: B 18 534135 (the 18 is underneath the B). The back side is written in an Indian language with the symbol of an animal in the center (leopard ???). condition is Fair, circulated.

This note was issued in 1943 (P17c) and is the scarcest type of this design (red serial numbers). The "blank space" on the left is a water mark (hold it up to the light). The person on the right is King George VI of Great Britain. Only worth about 50 cents in low grade.

3. 1943 $1 Lira. One side has Issued in Italy 1 Lira with series 1943 notated on under the top felt and bottom right #1. A red number appears in the center bottom margin = A 58188935 A. The back side has a symbol in the center (unable to read tow of the three words except CURRENCY) with the slogans 'Freedom of Speech Freedom of Religion" and Freedom from want Freedom from Fear". condition fair - poor, circulated.

This was issued under Allied Military Occupation in Italy (PM10) and was actually was printed in Boston at Forbes Litho. It was used to pay U.S. troops in Italy under Allied Occupation. 'Only sentimental value in low grade.

Comments: 1 OF THE BEST SITES I'VE BEEN TO.
Email Address: MERK27@HOTMAIL.COM
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Your Name: KYLE HOOE
Your Question: WHERE CAN I FIND A VIETNAM COMMEMORATIVE HALF DOLLAR.

I think you are talking about the commemorative silver dollar. These items are produced by the United States Mint and are originally sold through their mail order service. These non- circulating legal tender coins eventually find their way into the secondary market, that is your local coin shop or coin show, often at a lower price than issue.

Email Address: dmoinett@tamucc.edu
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Your Name: Dave Moinette
Your Question: Grandma gave me a Franklin Mint set of silver coins depicting Historic Sites. Where can I go to find out how much/little it is worth? Thank you.

The Franklin Mint, The Danbury Mint and other private organizations like this originally made their money by creating sculpture and medals for hire. They discovered that with careful promotion they could market special issues to the public at large. Some of these issues have found favor with a small segment of the collecting public but for the most part they end up as very nice bullion items. That means their value is tied to the weight of the precious metal that they are minted from.
These are not coins but privately issued medals minted only for promotion.

Comments: I like it.
Email Address: billya21
How did you find TCD: By Accident
Your Name: Bill
Your Question: Could you please tell me about a five cent piece from Hong Kong circa 1900?

The British have had a presence in Hong Kong since 1839 and a formal lease for 99 years was signed in 1898. A characteristic of Hong Kong coins under British rule is that the legends are in Chinese and English and always feature the current British Monarch on one side of the coin. The monetary system is really an adaptation of the Chinese and translates as:

10 mils or Wen, Ch'ien=1 cent or Hsien
10 cents= 1 Chiao
100 cent or 10 Chiao=1 Dollar or Yuan

If your coin is dated 1900 or 1901 it still would have the head of Queen Victoria. If it dated 1903 (there is no 1902 5c) it would have a portrait of her son, King Edward VII. The value is nominal in most grades, though real gem condition examples are scarce.

Comments: this is my first time here, I'm not sure what all is here, or what yet.
Email Address: rambo@ipa.com
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Your Name: Rhonda
Your Question: is a 1929 wheat penny worth hanging onto?

Dear Rhonda,
Yes, though it isn't a great rarity it is a historic date (stock market crash and all that) and a wonderful jumping off place for starting a coin collection.

Comments: looks like a very well done and completely informative web site. i am looking forward to coming back. thank you for providing such a site for the collector.
Email Address: jervin727@aol.com
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Your Name: John D. Irvine
Your Question: what is the safest way to remove the film that coins get when they have been in a plastic flip too long? is dipping safe and if so, in what. I would really appreciate any assistance you can give me.

Storage is a big issue for coin collectors. The soft flips are generally safe but they will break down chemically if they are exposed to sunlight or placed in a very hot environment for a extended period of time. The chemical breakup releases hydrogen sulfide that can attack the surface of most coins. It will virtually destroy copper coins and leave silver coins spotted or scarred with other evidence of corrosion. The decaying flip also will leave an oily residue on the surface of the coin.
One of the safest ways to remove the oily mess ( for you and your coins), is to purchase non-oily nail polish remover (acetone) from your drug store. If you don't see it on the shelf ask the pharmacist. It is often kept behind the counter. Just allow the affected coin to soak for a while and then rinse it with cold water for at least one minute. The advantage in using this method is that it will not affect the surface metal of the coin, just what's on top of it. Do not use "Jewel Luster" type coin dips as they remove metal from the coin.

Comments: Looks like the Coin Doctor was just what I was looking for. I will continue to explore this site. Thanks.
Email Address: hallmike@flash.net
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Your Name: Michael F. Hall
Your Question: I am looking for information on a set of Vatican souvenir coins which were given to me. I have not been able to find anything in the library coin books about them. There are five coins in the set each seems to be for a different pope however, I was not able to verify these names in the list of popes in my encyclopedia. The title on the set is Souvenirs Vaticano I Papi Nella Storia 1939-1980. The five popes are Pio XII, Giovanni XXIII, Giovanni Paolo II, Paolo VI, and Giovanni Paolo I. Each measures about 1 3/8 inches diameter. The content is not indicated but may contain silver since they have begun to tarnish.
Do the set have any value as a collectable? Where would I find interested collectors?

The Pope names listed above in English are: Pius XII, John XXIII, John Paul II, Paul VI and John Paul I. There are many shops around the Vatican that sell privately issued souvenir sets . These are medals usually struck in white metal or other base metals. I have seen some in low quality silver (.500 fine or less) also. Official Vatican coin issues will say CITIA DEL VATICANO somewhere in the legend as well as having a denomination in Lira. There are also pre WWII issues that are denominated in Centesimi. Though the privately made medal sets are a nice reminder of a trip to the historic Vatican, they don't garner much value in the collector market.

Email Address: megereau@digitalexp.com
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Your Name: eric gereau
Your Question: could you tell me what F, EF, VF, AU mean. I know they represent the quality of a coin, but exactly what i don't know. Also on another site, along with those letters, they also had columns headed with the numbers 60 thru 68. what does this mean. Thank you.

The system of grading that we used today in the United States is based on a system for evaluating early Large Cents promoted by Dr. William H. Sheldon in his book Early American Cents,( Later editions were called Penny Whimsy), first published in 1949. Theoretically, a coin graded 70 was worth 70 times more than a coin graded 1. Pricing changed dramatically through the 1950 rendered Sheldon's price relationships obsolete, however, the idea stuck and today this system is used for all United States Coins.
The grading system is divided into Mint State grades, that is coins with no trace of wear but with varying degrees of marks or other blemishes and circulated grades that describe coins with varying degrees of wear. Generally speaking, grades describe a comparison of a coin just minted and falling from the dies with one that you may be holding in your hand.
As with all subjective comparisons there may be disagreements with others on the precise grade of a specific coin. Grading services have developed to mitigate this problem with varying degrees of success. Here is a general description of the coin grades:

MS60-70 - "MS" means "Mint State", that is no trace of wear and having the original mint luster. "Mint Luster" is a scientific term and refers to the flow lines emanating from the center of a coin to the edge resulting from the force of striking the coin in the coin press. Mint luster is what creates the "wagon wheel" effect when you tilt a coin in a bright light. MS70 is theoretical and refers to absolute perfection.
AU50, 55, 58 -"About Uncirculated" coins have only a light trace of wear on a high spot on the design of the coin. Most of the Mint Luster should remain.
EF40, 45 - These grades, Extra Fine, show wear on most or all the high spots and only a small part of the mint luster remains.
VF20, 30 - Very Fine coins show moderate wear on most design features
F12 - Fine coins have heavy wear with some design features missing.
VG8 - Very Good coins show heavy wear but on most coins still have design details remaining on the devices.
G4- Good coins show only the outline of the design but the rim and the surrounding lettering are complete
AG3 - About Good coins show wear down into the legend lettering and the rim is worn.
Basel State1 - A coin just with enough design detail to identify.

Comments: Its great to see a site where questions can be answered even simple ones. This is a great hobby I discovered and any information is helpful and interesting.
Email Address: jtimbloom@aol.com
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Your Name: Jon Bloomquist
Your Question: Regarding Morgan dollars, what does it mean when books say the coin is a reverse of a particular year, and what are the differences between them? Thanks, great column!

When a new coin is issued there are often changes made to strengthen or correct problems in striking the coin. I'll use Morgan Dollars as an example. In 1878, the first year of the Morgan Dollar, someone noticed that the eagle on the coin had eight tail feathers. This bit of important news was brought to the attention of the United States Congress where a debate begun on the real number of tail feathers on an American eagle. It was finally decided that an eagle only had seven tail feathers and the correction was ordered. There was also another design change, this one involving the eagle's breast. The original 1878 had a concave breast which was replaced by a convex breast that became the standard for the rest of the series.
Because dies were so expensive to make, the original dies continued to be used or corrected. That economy gave us several varieties of the 1878 Morgans:

1878 8 tail feathers
1878 7 tail feathers
1878 7 tail feathers, convex breast
1878 7 over 8 feathers (the old design reverse was salvaged)

There is also an 1879 Morgan Dollar with the concave reverse of 1878. 'More government economy at work.

Comments: Very interesting and useful, especially for me as a novice.
Email Address: aebbo@globalnet.co.uk
Your Name: David Ebbage Your Question: I recently found a silver hammered coin(20mm diameter), with a yoke symbol on one side and a radial bundle of arrows on the other. I have found out that it is of the reign of Ferdinand II and Isabella of Castile(married-1492) she died 1504. Can you tell me the denomination of the coin based on the size, any any other background. By the way they were called the Catholic Kings. Thanks Dave

Los Reyes Catalicos, was the name that the Pope gave to Ferdinand and Isabella, that is the Universal Monarchs. They also had the dubious honor of presiding over the Inquisition. One of Spain's major exports during this period was a wide variety of torture instruments. Oh yes, your coin sounds like a 2 Reales.

David Manzi writes: I have an 1830 XF Bust Half with, what may or may not be an interesting error. On the lettered edge, the word "OR" is stamped over the first two letters of the word "Half" so it now appears to read, "fifty cents oalf a dollar". Have you ever seen this error? Also is it listed in the Overton book and do you have any idea what its worth?

There are more than one hundred lettered edge varieties on Capped Bust half dollars. Overton's book is now hopelessly out of date and until more information is uncovered, the true rarity of these edge varieties won't be known.

Molly Behringer at bob@duke.phys.edu writes: Hi! I was wondering if you could help me out with a school project. I'm trying to figure out which Presidents of the U.S. have had their portraits on U.S. currency. I know that there are supposedly 7 on paper and 6 on coins. Can you help me? Thanks.

I assume we're talking about the small size currency beginning in 1928:

$1 =George Washington
$2= Thomas Jefferson
$5= Abraham Lincoln
$20=Andrew Jackson
$50=Ulysses S. Grant
$500=William McKinley( no longer made but legal tender)
$1000=Grover Cleveland (no longer made but legal tender)
$5000=James Madison (no longer made, rare, still legal tender)
$100,000=Woodrow Wilson (1934 gold certificate)

On Coins the following Presidents are represented:

.01=Abraham Lincoln (1909-)
.05=Thomas Jefferson (1938-)
.10=Franklin Roosevelt (1946-)
.25=George Washington (1932-)
.50=J. F. Kennedy (1964-)
1.00=Dwight Eisenhower (1971-1978)

Jon Deavers at deavers@dragnet.net writes: What does it mean if my 1953A 2 dollar bill has red writing on it and a red seal and below Jefferson it says The United States of America will pay to the bearer on demand Two Dollars. On the back it has Monticello instead of the signing of the declaration of independence. Any help would be great because I'm 16 and somewhat of a newbie in the currency collecting scene, thanks!

All currency has an "obligation" that tells what that certificate represents. At an earlier time in American History currency represented gold or silver. For example silver certificates represented the face value amount in silver coins in its obligation and gold certificates were redeemable in gold coins.
Red seal currencies are known as Legal Tender or United States Notes and have their roots in the Civil War. It was a method by which the government could raise funds without having to redeem these notes for gold or silver. It essentially was a loan to the United States Government.
At one time the "obligation" said that the notes were legal tender but you couldn't use it to pay duty. The modern small size Legal Tender Notes only state that they are money. In 1953 we were still on a silver standard but the obligation on your note doesn't mention precious metal only that ".....it is legal tender at its face value for all debts public and private". The obligation was modified again in 1963 now stating only that "this note is legal tender for all debts, public and private". Only 1, 2, 5 and 100 Dollar notes were issued as Legal Tender Notes.
Why were these notes still being issued, long after the need for them had past? Until fairly recent legislation finally ended the Legal Tender series, the last update on this law was The Act of May 3, 1878. That law decreed that the value of Legal Tender notes outstanding had to be maintained at $346,681,016. As this may be at the least silly, it does give us an opportunity to collect a few examples of this archaic paper money. Keep yours and enjoy!
For more information about Legal Tender notes, go the the FAQ about coins on the Features Page.

GUSNFROUSAKIS@prodigy.net writes: Is there any site where I can get knowledge of the value of some of my coins (pennies, half dollars, Silver dollors)? Thanks

You also need to know what the GRADE of the coins are as well as the date and Mint. Check the Numismatic Links Page to find many sources to look at. Also, buy a copy of the Guide Book of United States Coins by R.S. Yeoman. Try your local coin shop for a copy.

SAhuja77@aol.com writes: Do you know why coins have ridges? Curiousity and a school project......thanks.....

All coin edge designs, ornamental or not, are security devices to thwart counterfeiting. Struck coinage held in place with a collar didn't get started until the first half of the 17th century. Prior to this coins were hammered and even good workmanship left the coins not quite round. Since coins were mostly precious metal, clipping a small piece of metal from a coin would almost go unnoticed on these crude pieces.
The Coin Press was able to manufacture uniformly round coins that were easily identified if mutilated. Reeding was used in this country on most high denomination coins when the steam engine made reeding practical (1836). The reeding is part of the collar that holds the coin blank in place before it is struck. The tremendous pressure on the blank when it is struck forces the metal into the collar where it is impressed with the reeding.

Lew Hess at lhess@p3.net writes: I have about 75 silver dollars dated from 1879 thru 1934. Most of them from the earlier period. They vary in condition from very good to quite worn. Are they worth anything? Lew

Some of the Peace Dollars could be valuable if you have dates such as the 1928 or 1934-S. Though most lots like you describe usually contain only common dates and grades, you should check them out to be sure. The common coins are sold in $1,000 face value bags at a small percentage over their silver value ($4-$5 at present). Condition, date and Mint are important in order to determine value. You might want to check a catalog at your public library for relative rarity before you sell them.

Stephen Bamberg at sbamberg@ditchwitch.com writes: I have a 1981 penny with a stamp of an outline of Arkansas and the letters AK inside the outline. The quality of the work suggests a professional job. Do you have any information on this coin.

This mutilation of cents has been going on for quite a while. Cents like this are stamped with a design by an organization that has no connection to the U.S. Mint. They use regular issue coins that are stamped with a design to commemorate an event or they are used for some other commercial purpose. One that got a lot of play showed the head of Kennedy stamped in the right field of a Lincoln cent. A card accompanying the coin showed the similarities between Lincoln and Kennedy's life and the circumstances surrounding their deaths. Stamped coins are in the same category as elongated cents and are collectable, though the modern ones have little value at present.

Akram Elias at aesquare@erols.com writes: Where can I find Knights Templar silver coins from Europe's Middle Ages Period?

The Knights Templars were formed during the Crusades, (Knights of the Temple of Solomon from their house in Jerusalem), in about the year 1118 AD as a military organization whose purpose was to protect pilgrims. It became quite a large and powerful organization over time and received gifts of estates and money from all over Europe. The order, under a grand master, had its headquarters in Jerusalem and was directly responsible to the Pope.
By the 13th century the organization had given up its military trappings and became a financial institution. Its banking functions served kings such as Henry II of England and Louis IX of France. I am not aware that the Order of the Knights Templar ever issued their own coinage but they did use the French silver deniers and English silver Crosslet pennys of their era. I'm sure coins from many other countries including those from the Arab world were used as well.
Medieval coinage is a fascinating area to study. See our Numismatic Links page to connect with a site that just deals with this era.

Jeff at sconach@trib.com writes: I have a Lincoln Penny 1991 that was not stamped "in god we trust" on the top, and the edge looks as if it has been double stamped. It is in au condition what would this be worth?

All the elements of the coin are present on a working die. They are not added after the fact. In order for the coin to be missing a design element, the master die would be missing this element also. That means that all the coin struck from that die would have the identical flaw.
A simpler explanation could be that the recesses of a die became filled with debris making that particular design element weak or even non existent. It also sounds like it could be a coin struck "out of collar" causing the coin to be struck off center. (Slightly off center pieces, larger than normal size are called Broadstruck). Since the motto is right by the top, obverse edge, it is possible that it just didn't get struck on the coin. Off center cent errors bring 3-5 dollars.

Gary Sriro, D.D.S. at gary.sriro@worldnet.att.net writes: I'm looking for coin albums for pre-Barber coins. I have the 3 volume set for the half dollars, done by the Coin & Currency Institute, NYC. Apparently they are no longer in business, or are not in NYC. My local coin dealer told me the albums are no longer made by anyone as the demand for them is nil. The question (finally) is: does anyone currently make the plastic sleeved albums similar the the "Library of Coins" by the Coin & Currency Institute? If so, who? If not, where might I be able to locate used ones? A thousand thanks, Gary. Dear Gary,
Try Whitman Coin Products, 1220 Mound Avenue, Racine WI 53404. (414) 633-2431, They still make albums for coin sets. You can also check with local coin dealers for the either new or used albums. Many times an old set will be purchased with the albums you are looking for still intact.

Kitty at crazy4hanson@hotmail.com writes: Why do Susan B's look like the Eagle is sitting on the moon and the Earth is in the background?

Dear Kitty,
Actually, the eagle is flying, about to drop an olive branch on to the Sea of Tranquility on the Moon. The earth is in the background. The design was first used on the Eisenhower dollar (1971-78) and was a tribute to Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin's trip to the moon. The design was suppose to represent the historic message that "The Eagle has landed" referring to the space ship's successful landing on the moon. Why Gasparro's design shows the eagle flying is a puzzle.

John at Six@iafrica.com writes: I have a vast collection of old "Rhodesian" coins Are there people collecting them? If so please advise me of there monitory value

Yes, there is a strong collector base worldwide for any British Commonwealth coins. However, coins bring vastly different values depending on their type, date, condition and demand from collectors in the market place.
For example, all of the pre WWII Rhodesian coinage is greatly in demand in uncirculated condition as is much of the proof coinage minted up until 1970. You would have to be very specific to get an idea of what your coins are worth. I suggest a trip to the public library to check on recent catalog prices. I would pay close attention to how the coins are graded. That is the key to their value.

steve white at whitesf@belmont.edu writes: i got a coin yesterday as change from a store. it is a very old quarter. it says on it quarter dollar. i've never seen anything like it. it has a lady on the front and looks as if she has a bag thrown over her shoulder. on the back there is a spread eagle. it has no date on it at all. very old looking and some of the texture has worn off. if you know what this is please notify me. thanks steve

The coin you are describing is a Standing Liberty Quarter. This coin was part of the United States psyche from the early part of this century until 90% silver was taken out of U.S. coinage in 1964 (The coin was minted from 1916-1930). The figure of Liberty is holding a shield in her left arm as symbolism of protection. The other hand holds an olive branch of peace. The reverse shows and flying eagle with stars around. The date was on the obverse and was too high up from the surface of the design and tended to wear off rapidly.
You are lucky. The coin is made of 90% silver and is worth, even without the date, about 75 cents.

Marvin Gill at marvgill@msn.com writes: I have several old coins that I am wondering about as far as worth. 1) An 1849 Liberty one cent. 2) A $1 Liberty head 1883. 3) A $1 1979 Susan B Anthony. 4) An 1899 Dime 5) 3 5cent pieces - 1896,1901,1888 Also we have came upon a "Heads/Tails" Comic Coin#3 would you know anything about this piece?

The large cent of 1849 is certainly fun. It's bigger that a quarter and many times thicker. This coin was widely used coin by the public as it could buy a loaf of bread or a quart of milk. The value of this treasure depends on the state of preservation. Average circulated pieces bring less than $10.
The 1883 Morgan silver dollar is common, though you don't mention the mint mark, a Carson City example would be worth more and a San Francisco issue would be more still. Anywhere from $4 and up.
The SBA dollar is current money and available at most banks. There are finally in heavy used now and have become the token of choice on municipal transportation systems around the United States. The U.S. Treasury is actually down to less than a two year supply and is currently considering a new dollar coin.
The 1899 Barber dime is a classic and is in very much demand by collectors but must be at least in a state where the headband shows all the letters in "LIBERTY". Again, you didn't mention the mint or the condition. The New Orleans and San Francisco mint examples are the most in demand and can bring from $3 to hundreds of dollars depending on condition.
Head and Tails tokens were popular in the 1950's and were issued by magazines, oil companies and others. An interesting advertising medium and very collectable.

Patrick Fischer at durachta@evansville.net writes: I have a 1871 5-Franc French coin and was wondering if it was designed by George T. Morgan, the designer of the Morgan Dollar? The obverse face of the coin looks very similar to the Morgan Dollar. There is also a M in one of the stars on the reverse.

The figure on the coin is Ceres and the designer was E. A. Oudiné. On some issues there seems to be an "M" in the single star above Ceres's head but this is Oudiné's monogram.

ben cass at nebssac@aol.com writes: Recently I purchased a purse from a pawn/antique shop. As I was inspecting the purse later in my home, I discovered a small pouch which contained several coins dating from 1834 to 1952. Could you please comment on the value of these coins, if possible? Other: 1834 one shilling Gulielmus IIII D:G: Britanniar: Rex F:D: 1858 10 cents Victoria Del Gratia Regina, Canada 1862 (dollar?? - large coin) Victoria ..., Canada 1881 one cent (h) Victoria Del Grazia Regina, Canada 1890 5 cents Victoria Del Gratia Regina.. Canada U.S.: 1863 Indian Head (penny?) , Confederate coat of arms on back 1867 Half Dollar,(s) -person sitting with a flag on front 1888 five cents, Liberty head 1890 one dime (s) -person sitting with a flag on front 1891 quarter? - person sitting with a flag on front 1912 penny (s), wheat on back 1913 penny (s), wheat 1914 penny (?) wheat 1945 penny (s), wheat 1951 penny (s), wheat 1942 nickel (s) 1943 nickel (p) 1945 nickel (s) Also we have a token with "Rosa Castellane" on front, "James Lick" stamped on back - it is copper and the size of a nickel.We appreciate your response!! Mostly nickels with Indian heads. Also a half dollar (1867 S).

This is quite a haul. I'm surprised no one noticed that these coins were there. Though most of what is listed sounds like common fare, I'm assuming that they are all average circulated coins, there are a few comments I'd like to make.
The coins with the "person sitting with a flag on front" is the Liberty Seated type that existed on U.S. coinage from 1837-1891. The design shows Ms Liberty seated on a rock holding a scroll with her name. The "flag" is a phrygian cap that represents freedom of thought.
Your best coin here is the 1867-S half dollar worth at least $20 in average circulated condition. The Indian Cent with the "Confederate Coat of Arms" is a late 19th century token and has nothing to with the CSA.

Sesario Alonzo at sjalonzo@erols.com writes: I've read several past answers and the site about paper money, but I still had to ask...
My grandmother has a couple of silver certificates series 1899 one is a $2 and the other a $1. Their in fair condition with the edges a little torn. How much are they worth?

Of the large size U.S. currency, the 1899 $1 is one of the easiest to find. Worth about $10 in low grade (Eagle with flag over portraits of Lincoln at left and Grant at center right). The 1899 $2 is a lot more valuable. Even a low grade, but intact specimen, is worth $25-$50 (Washington between allegorical figures of Commerce and Agriculture).

Bill Hall at hallb@lps.wmsc.k12.ar.us writes: What is the approximate value of a 1946 Booker T. Washington Half dollar in good condition?
and
Danny R. Etheredge at www.DKDTK@WEBTV.NET writes: How much would a 1946 Booker T. Washington silver half dollar be worth?

The Booker T. Washington Commemorative half dollar was one of the few tributes to great black Americans and was minted from 1946 to 1951 and was sold at a premium the proceeds of which funded memorials to his memory (among his accomplishments was the founding of the Tuskegee Institute) . The obverse shows a bust 3/4 facing and the reverse shows the legend "From Slave Cabin to Hall of Fame". Average pieces bring less than $10. Nice uncirculated sets and singles are scarce.

Danny DeRose at dderose@planeteer.com writes: I have in my possession a twenty dollar American gold coin from the year 1890. I would appreciate it if you could provide me with some information as to its origin or possible value, thanks.

The origin of the coin would be one of the United States Mints. You don't mention which mint or the grade of the coin but it contains .9675 of a troy ounce of pure gold. Average pieces (VF) of either Philadelphia or San Francisco would bring about a 5% premium over the gold content. A Carson City Mint example (cc mint mark) would bring at least a 50% premium over gold in average condition.

larry reich at reich@globalserve.com writes: I have a friend who has a 1910-1911 large canadian penny I cannot find in my coin books. They are in fair condition. What would they be worth?Thanks Larry

The 1910 Canadian cent is the last issue of King Edward VII of England and is common in low grade with a value less than US 50 cents. The 1911 issue features King George V and has the distinction of missing the "Dei Gratia"(by the Grace of G-d) part of the usual legend. This issue is referred to as the "Godless" coin. The term was reestablished on the cents of the following year.
The 1911 cent is popular and brings US$1-$2 in low grade.

Alan Goldman at goldman@rutchem.rutgers.edu writes: Can you tell me what is on the back of a Roosevelt dime?

The reverse of the Roosevelt dime features The Torch of Freedom and an olive branch for peace.

Tom at tomgolota@aol.com writes: Where can I get the current value of Proof and Uncirculated coin sets from the U.S. Mint? One of my relatives has several sets from 1970-1997

You can try a publication like Coin World (800-673-8311). You should be able to find a copy at a newspaper and magazine shop or call them at the above number. The paper lists price trends for coins and contains many ads, including ads for modern proof sets. (Tell them you saw them on The Coin Site.)
One comment about modern proof sets. Most of them trade below their issue price, which makes buying them in the secondary market a better deal then buying them from the Mint. Even some of the high flying issues seem to cool off quite a bit over time.

Lew at lhess@p3.net writes: How can I clean up some of my coins? Mostly silver dollars dated from 1879 to 1924. I do not want to damage them.

Don't!!!!!!!!!!!

Akram Elias at aesquare@erols.com writes: Where can I find Masonic Silver Commemorative Coins?

A popular area of collecting! There are token and medal sales around the country all the time. Invariably they contain Masonic items. Though silver pieces are out of the ordinary they are best found at auctions. Contact the American Numismatic Association for a list of Token and Medal dealers. You can reach them through The Coin Site. Click on The Numismatic Links Page to locate them.

itsus@snd.softfarm.com writes: I found a 1850 Ten dollar coin From Baldwin & Co. Could you tell me whats its worth. Thank you

The Baldwin & Co. coins are part of the category of Private and Territorial gold and refer to coins not struck by a United States government body. Coins of this type were minted in response to the dearth of coinage available for commerce in the Western U.S. The "coin crises" occurred during the "gold rush" period of 1849-1861 though there are earlier Eastern private coinages by Templeton Reid and the Bechtlers.
George Baldwin and Thomas Holman were jewelers in San Francisco when these private coin were manufactured. The gold $10 coin is dated 1850 and shows a rider on horseback, the date below, and the words CALIFORNIA GOLD and TEN DOLLARS. The reverse shows an eagle with outstretched wings between BALDWIN & CO and SAN FRANCISCO. There is a series of stars to the right and left of the eagle.
These coins are quite rare and are prized by Territorial collectors. They bring large sums when they are offered for sale. A VF specimen might bring $15,000 or more with uncirculated specimens bringing twice that. There are lots of brass copies of these coins, some sold at museums or tourist shops. For most of us, that is about as close as we are going to come to one of these beauties.

Khoo Hai Chew at haichew.khoo@digital.com writes: How do you clean Copper-Nickel coins. What cleaning solution can be used without damaging the coin ?

Don't!!!!!

Jack Kearney at jkearney@motown.lmco.com writes: I have an 1885 Newfoundland 50 cent coin in fine condition can you tell me what it is worth or where to find this formation.

I think that any New Foundland coin is fascinating. It wasn't an easy place to live and the people there were more concerned with spending their hard earned money than saving it as a collectable. As a result, the supply of uncirculated coins is very, very small and they usually bring high prices when offered for sale. Though circulated pieces are not nearly as scarce, your 1885 is probably worth at least $20.

William Quibell at kenwil@interlog.com writes: I am a collage student and I am looking for a coin or type of money called minae? I need pictures and I was wondering you knew where to look? please could you help me?

I'm not sure what you are looking for but here's a couple of roads to travel:

Mina in ancient times refers to a unit of weight equal to 100 drachmae.
Minaeans were an ancient tribe of southern Arabia who produced coinage copying the types of Alexander the Great.
In the early 18th Century in Brazil some gold coins were struck with an "M" mint mark and were products of the Mint at Villa Rica, the capital of the province of Minas Geraes.
4th Century B.C., Crete didrachms, drachms and staters were minted with folk legends as part of the design. The labyrinth built for Minos by Daedalus at Cnossus is commonly on the reverse of this city's coins. The abduction of Europa by Zeus who, in the form of a bull, brought her to Crete where she gave birth to Minos, is featured on other city coinage of the period.

Al at dbow@aol.com writes: I HAVE FOUND A 1944 COPPER PENNY. IT HAS LIKE A HOLLOW AIR POCKET UNDER LINCOLN's CHIN. AT FIRST YOU MIGHT THINK SOMETHING WAS SPILT ON IT, BUT IT IS ACTUALLY PART OF THE COIN. i ALSO HAVE A 1943 D LINCOLN PENNY. I BELIEVE IT IS STEEL. IT WILL STICK TO A MAGNET. OH YEA.. I HAVE A 1800 COPPER PENNY - WORN - INDIAN ON THE FRONT AND THE WHEAT ON BACK. WHAT DO YOU THINK THE VALUE IS AND WHAT IS THE HISTORY. THANKS ALOT.

Dear Al,
The 1944 cent sounds like a broken die error. The "bubble" you mention is called a cud and is the result of a piece of the die breaking off. The place where the break occurs fills with metal at the time of striking causing a blob to appear instead of the design. Cuds are very collectable and large ones like the one on your cent bring $10 and up in the coin market.
Officially, All 1943 cents are zinc coated steel and yes, they would attract to a magnet, also they're rather common. Copper was needed for cartridge casings so steel was used to free up the copper supply for the war effort.
I'm sure that the Indian cent that you describe above has the date 1900 instead of 1800. The first year of issue for this coin's design wasn't until 1859. Worn 1900 Indian cents are worth less than $1.

Mike Reynolds at razorblade-suitcase@juno.com writes: What are my chances of finding a 1943 copper cent? I have over 50 pennies ranging from 1913 to 1958 (wheaties). I work at a Dunkin' Donuts, so whenever I work, I find such pennies. Are any coins in this age range worth any spectacular value(s)?

The wheat cents are not particularly valuable in average circulated condition especially after 1934 (earlier ones are worth saving). The 1943 is a special case in that only steel cents were made this year (see the FAQ). The few genuine copper cents found with this date were probably minted from blanks accidentally left over from the preceding year. Interestingly enough, all the pieces found have been found in circulation which means that it may be still be pieces out there. They are very valuable, recent auction records show that 1943 copper cents can bring upwards of $20,000 or more.

Christian Haines at Chaines@dartmouth.edu writes: My grandfather served in the navy during and after WWII, and he has passed down a set of coins that he collected in some of his travels. It includes many Deutsche Marks from the late forties, a 2 and 1/2 guilder note from 1949 Netherlands, a 1936 Danish Krone, and a British Penny and three pence coin, from 1946 and 1945 respectively. I carry the British penny around, as a "lucky coin", and I wondered if it or any of the coins in this small collection were of any value (I would hate to drop the penny out of my pocket one day, only to learn I had lost a small fortune.)

No small or even tiny fortune here.....just sentimental value....enjoy!

Derek Moore at moored@hotcoco.infi.net writes: My girlfriend brought home a weird-looking penny. It looks like it is made of gold (it is very very yellow), but it isn't any heavier than a normal penny. It has no minting initial on it. The year is 1996. What gives?

Cents must be the subject of electrolysis students all over the country. The Coin Doc gets lots of questions about silver or gold plated cents. That is what they are, plated. There are no gold or silver cents, never was. At 3.11 grams, a cent weighs a tenth of a troy ounce. If the government made them in gold each cent would be worth about $33 at the present gold price.
Since gold is so ductile, the value of the plating is nominal. A neat curiosity though!

Jim Zendman at jpzen@aol.com writes: Maybe you can help me to find out if there exists coin used for "flipping". At one time, I am told, stock traders who needed to determine a way to settle disputes and choose who could get a certain order would use a "flipping coin". If this is true, where can I find them for sale? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

As far as I know, Standard coins were used for this purpose. I'm sure that some traders had some favorite pocket piece that they used for "flipping". Merchant tokens were should probably be included in this category also.

Curnow at curnow@carol.net writes: My mother found a silver South African Coin dating in the late nineteenth century in a collection of coins that she inherited from her grandfather, but she can't find any literature on it. Could it be worth something? Can you tell me a good book for 18th and 19th British and Dutch Colonial coins? Thanks.

A good general reference is the Krause Publication, Standard Catalog of World Coins. Check to see if there is a set at your local public library. If not you can buy the set at most coin dealers. They are expensive. A whole set can cost near $200.

Aircom@aol.com writes: Your Max Mehl surprise has been coming for sometime but so is christmas, what's happening ?

We've been working on lots of projects, you can see the latest coin pictures at the Image Gallery, we've updated the Trading Room and we hope to get to the Max Mehl material soon. We have this valuable and I might add, expensive material bound in books which need to be unbound before we can scan the pages. We are still undecided how to present the material so that it is meaningful and compelling to our viewers so it has been on a back burner for a while. We still own the material and plan to implement it on Coinsite in the near future. Patience will be rewarded.

Sam Franzel at Sfranzel@sprynet.com writes: I have a set of uncirculated US coins from 2 different mints. One of the mint sets has a second penny instead of the kennedy 1/2 dollar. Does this error impact value?

Yes, its worth less. I would have complained to the Mint. They beat you out of the best coin in the set! Packaging errors are fairly common and don't seem to excite anyone enough to pay a premium for it.

John at JohnRamotar@lscsoft.com writes: How much is a 1882 US one cent coin worth?

Coin values depend on condition. An 1882 Indian cent in average circulated grade is worth less than $1. Uncirculated pieces, that is in new condition, are far scarcer and bring about $30 and up depending on the quality.

nafuchie@aol.com writes: I have an 1864 new brunswick nickel. Can you tell me what its worth? thank you

The New Brunswick 5c coin is made of sterling silver and is not called a "nickel" (That's a U.S. term). They were minted in 1862 and 1864 at the Tower Mint in London and feature Queen Victoria on the obverse and a crowned laurel wreath surrounding the denomination and the date. Again, condition is everything. Anywhere from $20 for one in Very Good to $1,000 or more for an uncirculated example.

Vanessa at sitosky@alltel.net writes: My mother's friend has a 1878 Susan B. Anthony coin. It is a small, silver coin. That is all the information that I can give you. Do you know if it is worth anything?

As far as I know there are no coins from any country with Susan B. Anthony's image dated 1878. There may be medals but I would need more information such as the content of the legends to try to identify it. There were $1 coins made in the U.S. in 1979, 1980 and 1981 with Susan B. Anthony's portrait. These are current money and in circulation and can be gotten at your local bank.

George fistrovich at georgerf@aol.com writes: Hi I have 20 Coins European coins from The 2nd World War,French,Belgium and Dutch, also numerous Indonesian-Dutch coins from the 1700's. Where can I get more information on their worth. Thanks

It can be fun to look up the coins on your own. First, try to identify the country of origin on each coin, the date and the denomination. If you can't figure it out, many world coin catalogs have "identifiers" that will help you determine the country or denomination by comparing your piece to a picture in the book.
Though there are many specialized catalogs available from coin shops and book dealers, try your public library first before you invest in an expensive book. If the collecting bug bites, you can always purchase your favorite catalog later. Try Krause Publications World Coin Catalogs or Victor Gadoury Annual (in French). Also click on the Numismatic Links Page for more sources of information.

robodude at robodude@westworld.com writes: is there an online price guide with photos for the coin collector ....all i seem to find is books for sale??? thank you in advance...

Check Numismatic Links Page for additional sources. We are planning to open Coinsite to dealers to list their coins for sale, many with photos,in the near future.

Robert Jackson at aarcuda@hotmail.comm writes: I recently received from my grandmother my grandfathers old coin albums with Mercury Head Dime, Lincoln Head Cent, and Buffalo Nickel. Many of these coins are missing and I would like to complete the sets as a remembrance of him. I was wondering if you know of anyone who deals with these specific coins. The albums are from Whiteman Publishing Company from Racine Wisconsin, copyright 1940. The book numbers are 9004, 9008, 9014. Any help you can provide will be appreciated. Thanks Robert Jackson

The Whitman albums are still being made and can be purchased at your local coin shop. Most of the coins, in average circulated condition, are available at local coin shops or shows. The hardest and most expensive pieces to find are the early cents like the 1909-S VDB, 1909-S, 1911-D, 1914-D and the 1922 plain. The toughest nickels are the 1913D Type II, 1913-S Type II, 1918-D (8 over 7) and the 1937-D 3 legged nickel. The hardest to find Mercury dimes are the 1916-D and the 1921's from all mints. You can explore the Numismatic Links page to find more sources for these coins.

Tiffanie Seward at faith-ts@worldnet.att.net writes: I have found a coin and would like to know the value of it, if any. On one side it has: 1778 Birth Place of the Declaration of Independence. On the other side: Home of the Philadelphia Record 1899.

Dear Tiffanie,
The piece you are describing is an 19th century advertising token, common in this period as a way of advertising a store or in this case a newspaper. Many times these tokens had monetary value, very much like product coupons are used today as an incentive to purchase a particular product.
There are many collectors of exonumia. You might want to contact other collectors of tokens and medals if this token has gotten you interested. Try the Numismatic Links page and go the the American Numismatic Association site to request a listing of organizations and dealers dedicated to tokens and medals.

jim at clamy812@aol.com writes: i have a coin and i believe it's a granby copper coin dated in 1737.i found this coin about 20 years ago while i lived in conn. me and a friend lived near a state forest and was exploring some caves in the area and was digging for garnets when we found it.it's in excellent condition.i'm just wondering if it's worth anything or it may be one of many replicas, can you help me out? thanks

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Barbara Robertson at barb@umr.edu writes: I acquired DM 5 and DM 10 silver coins issued in Germany in 1975 and 1976 to support the Olympics. I am looking for information on these. Help!

I think you mean the 1972 Munich Olympic 10 Mark commemoratives. Those were sold in boxed sets and today bring close to their face value (about $7/each) as that usually exceeds the value of the silver content of .2250 troy ounces. There were no Olympic 5 Mark commemoratives but there are plenty of 5 mark commemoratives of various dates both in silver and copper nickel honoring famous Germans, museums and universities. Most of these range in price from face value to $20 depending on the issue and whether it is a proof or business strike.

KEVIN at KMBDLB@JUNO.COM writes: I RECENTLY RECEIVED A 1934 D TEN DOLLAR BILL AS CHANGE, IT APPEARS TO BE IN VERY GOOD CONDITION. I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF IT HAS ANY VALUE. THE SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY IS, JOHN W. SNYDER, AND THE TREASURE OF THE U.S. IS GEORGIA REESE CLARK ? I THINK. THE RESERVE BANK IS PHILADELPHIA. THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME. KEVIN BRUCHA

The 1934D series of $10 Federal Reserve notes are "common", at least at the moment. Only uncirculated notes bring any premium but that may change in the future as the U.S. government is busy destroying as much of the older notes as possible and replacing them with new money with security strips and micro printing. The current design will go the way of the horse and buggy in two years when it is replaced by a totally new design. You could keep it and use it to start a paper money collection. Check out our Numismatic Links Page to find more sources about paper money collecting.

A. McMonnies at mcmonniesa@worldnet.att.net writes: I have a pre-Komani Iranian Gold coin. I think it's called a pahalavi or something like that. Is it worth anything more the than gold content?

Yes, some are, especially from the 1930's with the portrait of the Shah's father. The 1/2 Pahlavi, for example, of 1931-1940 are quite scarce and bring a significant premium over the gold content.

G Hier at G Hier@msn.com writes: I have a 1992p Jefferson nickel that is a 50% off-center strike. The coin would probably be graded better than EF-40. Any thoughts? Thanks.

Coins struck out of the collar such as off center strikes would get stuck in the Mint's counting machines so relatively few of these errors got out. In recent times the coins are weighed in bags so most of these errors find their way to banks where savvy tellers find them and sell them to dealers or other collectors. Value for your coin about $5-$10.

Zack Wright at JiveOMan@aol.com writes: I have a 1776 New Hampshire Copper coin, with the WM initials on the back. I think it is worth quite a bit of money. Could you tell me about this coin? Also, is there a way you could tell if it is authentic? Thanks, jiveoman

Most of the New Hampshire Coppers were cast patterns for a proposed coinage. Very few survived. The initials WM stands for William Moulton. They are notoriously counterfeited and must be authenticated by a knowledgeable organization such as the American Numismatic Association. (See the Numismatic Links page for a Hyperlink to the ANA). Genuine pieces are very valuable. Recent auction prices to $13,000. (Stickney/Ellsworth/Garrett coin).

Neil at ttc10267@taconic.net writes: My friend has had a piece of paper money given to him. It is marked "3 cent act of March 3rd 1863 Fournished only by The Asslstant Treasures & Designated Depositaries of The United States" Any idea of worth? Thanks..

Few people today know that during the Civil War period and for years after the United States issued fractional currency. Fractional currency took the place of coins that rapidly disappeared from the flow of commerce as their intrinsic metal value exceeded face value. The note that your friend has was really issued between 1864 and 1869 and was part of the third issue. The date at the top of the note was the date of the original law. Fractionals are very popular with U.S. paper money collectors and a average example would bring about $15 in the current market. Uncirculated notes are heavily in demand and ones in this condition would bring $50 and more.
Ron at lakehome@planet.net writes: I hope you can help me. This is not really a coin question, it is in reference to a token that I found. The token is clearly a movie memorabilia piece. On the face is the profile of Marion Davies, along the top are the words WHEN KNIGHTHOOD WAS IN FLOWER along the bottom is the date 1922 the year the movie was made.
On the back are the words LOSE NOT THIS LUCKY PIECE AND THY FORTUNE WILL INCREASE. Please help me find the value of this token,I've tried everything I can think of to figure this out but have had no luck. Thanx Ron.

Tokens were a good advertising method in the days before mass media. I'd estimate about $25 for an example in good shape. You might want to contact someone like Rich Hartzog, World Exonumia POB 4143, Rockford, IL 61110-0643 (815) 226-0771, who specializes tokens and medals to be sure.

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The Coin Doc's Answers