Welcome to Something about Coins! Here are a few coin articles in the news I found most interesting today and over the weekend.
American Silver Eagle's all-time record was broke in September, according to an article on SilverCoinsToday.com. It said the previous highest annual record was made in 2008, but nearly 21 million have sold so far in 2009, which tops the record easily with three months still left to go.
Anyone new to coin collecting could benefit from learning why cleaning coins cannot be undone. This useful article from Numismatic Conservation Services explains in good detail why you shouldn't clean coins, how it affects the surface, and why cleaning is irreversible. The article also reveals the telltale signs of a cleaned coin.
Another beneficial article, for all collectors, is from Steve Roach of Coin Values. He discusses the innovations of counterfeit coins in an online post today. One counterfeit he describes in detail was put in a fake PCGS holder, and although the fake coin was not suspicious, the slab gave it away when it would not scan properly.
Another mention of counterfeits was given today in an article on NumisMaster.com. The Seated Liberty Quarter was common for decades, but it went through several changes, which made it hard for people to spot the numerous counterfeits. The article stated that counterfeits were everywhere.
Also in the news, the U.S. Mint announced it will release a Special Braille Education Set on Thursday, Oct. 8. Only 25,000 of this unique set will be allowed to be sold. An article posted on CoinNews.net presents all of the factors that make this Braille set one of a kind and makes comparisons to the upcoming Lincoln Coin and Chronicles Set.
The U.S. Mint also announced two openings on the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee. As described in the press release, one position requires knowledge of American history and the other knowledge of medallic arts or sculpture. It said applications will be accepted through November 13.
I hope to see you back here tomorrow!
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