Conservation Showcase: Proof 1981-S Type 2 $1

Posted on 3/22/2010

A recent example from our conservation laboratory.

BEFORE CONSERVATION
NCS Conservation Showcase NCS Conservation Showcase
click to enlarge click to enlarge
 
AFTER CONSERVATION
NCS Conservation Showcase NCS Conservation Showcase

Imagine the excitement of discovering a rarer and more valuable coin variety where a more common piece was thought to be. Then imagine the same discovery when the coin is covered with a distracting haze to help hide the very variety that makes the coin special.

In 1981, proof Dollar coins were issued with two different varieties of the S mintmark, signifying production at San Francisco. The majority of coins issued have a rounded mintmark, as do the coins of 1980, however some Dollar coins were produced with a mintmark sporting flattened serifs. The second mintmark variety with flat serifs is less common and far more valuable.

Haze on modern coins is a relatively common condition. The NCS conservators were able to remove the haze and reveal the full mirrored fields of this Dollar without leaving hairline scratches. Removal of the haze allowed this coin to grade at its greatest potential with NGC.


Stay Informed

Want news like this delivered to your inbox once a month? Subscribe to the free NGC eNewsletter today!

Thanks!

You've been subscribed to the NGC eNewsletter.

Unable to subscribe to our eNewsletter. Please try again later.

Articles List

Add Coin

Join NGC for free to add coins, track your collection and participate in the NGC Registry. Learn more >

Join NGC

Already a member? Sign In
Add to NGC Coin Registry Example
The NGC Registry is not endorsed by or associated with PCGS or CAC. PCGS is a registered trademark of Collectors Universe, Inc. CAC is a trademark of Certified Acceptance Corporation.