Welcome to Coin Update!
We’re back with a brand new round up of coin collecting news and articles from around the internet! The final installment in the coverage of the United States Mint’s 2010 results. Also, the favorite 2010 product and coin design of Mint News Blog readers, Proof Platinum Eagle variety discovery, coin doctoring, coin conservation, NGC discusses “top pop” coins, a new Coingrader Capsule, getting the younger generation excited about coin collecting, and notable auctions. On to the links…
The final article from the series examining the US Mint’s financial results covers the numismatic program, which saw revenue fall by 6.11%, as profits rose 21.17%.
Mint News Blog begins a series of posts covering the results of the annual reader survey. Readers’ favorite 2010 numismatic product and 2010 coin design are revealed.
NGC has certified a newly discovered Platinum Eagle variety. A 2007-W $100 Proof Platinum Eagle was found with a die polishing error, where the word “FREEDOM” appears frosted rather than mirrored. So far, only a single example has been identified, although it’s likely that others will surface when collectors begin taking a closer look at their coins.
On CoinWeek, Vic Bozarth discusses Coin Doctoring and the PNG decision and provides his opinion about “working” on coins.
An article on Numismaster discusses “ugly coins” encountered at a grading service and the occasions when proper conservation can improve eye appeal and grades.
An article following the Carolina Coin and Stamp Show in North Carolina, which discusses the growing demand for gold and silver bullion, with quotes from some who warn of a bubble.
More bubble talk. NGC Chairman Mark Salzberg recently made comments about a possible bubble for “top of pop” coins. He mentioned coins such as the 1944 Walking Liberty Half Dollar graded MS 68 that recently sold for more than $100,000.
Highlights and images from the upcoming Stack’s-Bowers New York Americana Sale to be held January 26-27.
A new Coin Grader Capsule discusses another online counterfeit gold coin and provides some telltale signs of fakes.
A few ideas on how to attract more youngsters to the hobby of coin collecting that have been implemented by the Ames Coin Club of Iowa.
And now for some notable auctions. First, a group of ten 1954 Proof Sets, in original US Mint packaging including the shipping box dated December 2, 1954.
Next, the unusual 1905 Lewis & Clark Gold Dollar Commemorative Coin, which features the bust of Lewis on the obverse and Clark on the reverse, creating a two headed coin.
Last, to go with one of today’s stories, here are the current auctions for 2007-W Proof $100 Platinum Eagles. So far I didn’t spot any with the “frosted Freedom.”
That wraps up another update. Have a great evening!
If the 10 1954 proof sets remained unopened, this auction would really be attractive. Unfortunately, the lot will just be a wholesale lot of opened sets. The seller should place individual auctions for each set to maximize returns.
-Richard Stinchcomb