War Nickels

War nickels, also known as silver alloy nickels, were a specific type of nickel coin minted by the United States from 1942 to 1945 during World War II. These nickels were composed of a 56% copper, 35% silver, and 9% manganese alloy, as opposed to the usual 75% copper and 25% nickel composition of regular nickels. The change in composition was made to conserve nickel for the war effort.

The main reason for the alteration was the increased demand for nickel in the production of military equipment, particularly artillery. By reducing the nickel content in nickels, the United States could redirect more of the metal towards the war industry. The addition of silver and manganese helped maintain the coin's electromagnetic properties for use in vending machines and other coin-operated devices.

War nickels are easily distinguishable from regular nickels due to a large mint mark, representing the coin's production location, located above Monticello, Thomas Jefferson's portrait on the reverse side of the coin. The mint marks for the war nickels were either a "P" for the Philadelphia Mint, a "D" for the Denver Mint, or an "S" for the San Francisco Mint.

In terms of value, war nickels contain a significant amount of silver compared to regular nickels. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the silver content of a war nickel was approximately 0.05626 troy ounces or 1.75 grams. The value of war nickels depends on the current price of silver, as well as their condition and rarity as collectibles. It's advisable to consult current market prices or consult with a numismatic expert for the most accurate valuation of war nickels.

Liberty Seated Dollar (1836-1873)

The Liberty Seated Dollar was a silver coin that was minted in the United States from 1840 to 1873. It featured a design known as the Liberty Seated motif, which depicted the figure of Liberty seated on a rock holding a shield in one hand and a staff with a liberty cap in the other.

The Liberty Seated Dollar was introduced to replace the earlier Gobrecht Dollar, which had been minted in limited quantities from 1836 to 1839. The design for the Liberty Seated Dollar was created by Christian Gobrecht, who was the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint at the time.

There were several different variations of the Liberty Seated Dollar throughout its production period. The initial design, known as the "No Stars" variety, featured no stars on the obverse (front) of the coin. This design was used from 1840 to 1843. In 1844, stars were added to the obverse, and the design continued to evolve over the years.

One of the most significant changes to the Liberty Seated Dollar design occurred in 1866 when the motto "In God We Trust" was added to the reverse (back) of the coin. This addition was made in response to increased religious sentiment during the Civil War.

The Liberty Seated Dollar saw limited circulation during its early years due to a lack of public trust in paper money and the availability of gold coins. However, as the silver mining industry expanded in the western United States, the coin became more widely circulated.

In 1873, the Coinage Act of 1873 was passed, which effectively ended the production of the Liberty Seated Dollar. The act discontinued the free coinage of silver and shifted the United States to a gold standard. This transition led to the discontinuation of several silver coin denominations, including the Liberty Seated Dollar.

The Liberty Seated Dollar holds historical significance not only as a form of currency but also as a reflection of the political and economic climate of the time. Today, these coins are highly sought after by collectors and numismatists for their historical value and artistic beauty.

Key Dates

1844-O: The 1844-O (New Orleans Mint) Liberty Seated Dollar is considered one of the most desirable and rarest dates in the series. Only 160,000 coins were minted, and surviving specimens are scarce.

1851: The 1851 Liberty Seated Dollar is a low mintage date with only 1,300 coins minted. It is highly sought after by collectors and can be quite valuable.

1852: The 1852 Liberty Seated Dollar is another low mintage date, with only 1,100 coins minted. It is a key date in the series and is highly sought after.

1858-S: The 1858-S (San Francisco Mint) Liberty Seated Dollar is a scarce and valuable date. It has a relatively low mintage of 121,500 coins, and surviving specimens are rare.

1859-O: The 1859-O (New Orleans Mint) Liberty Seated Dollar is a key date with a low mintage of 360,000 coins. It is sought after by collectors and can command a premium.

1870-CC: The 1870-CC (Carson City Mint) Liberty Seated Dollar is one of the most famous and rarest dates in the series. Only 11,758 coins were minted, and surviving examples are highly coveted by collectors.

 

Draped Bust Quarter 1796-1807

The Draped Bust Quarter is a United States coin that was minted from 1796 to 1807. It features a design with Lady Liberty on the obverse (front) and an eagle on the reverse (back). The Draped Bust Quarter is part of a series of coins known as the Draped Bust coinage, which includes the Draped Bust Half Dollar and the Draped Bust Dollar.

The Draped Bust design was created by renowned artist Gilbert Stuart, who is famous for his portrait of George Washington that appears on the one-dollar bill. The design features a bust of Lady Liberty, her hair flowing down and tied with a ribbon. She is wearing a gown with drapery that gives the design its name. The reverse of the coin depicts a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings and a shield on its chest.

The Draped Bust Quarter was first minted in 1796, with a mintage of only 6,146 coins. These early issues are highly sought after by collectors and can command high prices. The following year, in 1797, a small eagle was added to the reverse of the coin to comply with a law that required all U.S. coins to have an eagle. These coins, known as the Draped Bust Small Eagle Quarters, have a lower mintage and are even scarcer than the 1796 issues.

In 1804, the design of the Draped Bust Quarter was modified. The bust of Liberty was changed to a more mature-looking depiction, and the reverse design was altered as well. The new reverse design featured a heraldic eagle with a shield on its breast and arrows and an olive branch in its talons.

The Draped Bust Quarter continued to be minted until 1807, with various mintage numbers each year. The final year of production, 1807, saw a substantial mintage of 165,000 coins, making it one of the more available issues of the series.

Today, Draped Bust Quarters are highly prized by collectors due to their historical significance, limited mintage numbers, and beautiful design. The rarity and condition of these coins can affect their value in the numismatic market, with some specimens commanding high prices at auction or in private sales.

 

Key Dates

1796: The inaugural year of the Draped Bust Quarter series, and also the rarest and most valuable date in the series. Only 6,146 coins were minted, making it extremely scarce. It is a highly sought-after coin among collectors, and examples in good condition can command significant prices.

1804: The 1804 Draped Bust Quarter is another important key date in the series. It has a low mintage of just 6,738 coins, which contributes to its rarity. Like the 1796 issue, it is highly desirable and sought after by collectors.

1807: While not as rare as the previous two key dates, the 1807 Draped Bust Quarter is still considered a significant coin in the series. It has a higher mintage of 165,000 coins, but it is the last year of the series, making it popular among collectors seeking to complete a set.

Other dates in the Draped Bust Quarter series, such as the 1797 Small Eagle variety and the 1806 and 1805 issues, are also considered desirable and relatively scarce, although not as rare as the key dates mentioned above.

 

Are You a Numismatist?

A numismatist is an individual who studies, collects, and researches coins and currency. Numismatics is the field of study and interest that focuses on coins, banknotes, tokens, and other forms of currency. Numismatists are passionate about the historical, cultural, artistic, and monetary aspects of numismatic objects.

Numismatists engage in various activities related to coins and currency, including:

1. Collecting: Numismatists build collections of coins and currency, often focusing on specific regions, time periods, or themes. They may collect coins from different countries, ancient coins, commemorative coins, or coins with specific historical significance.

2. Research and Study: Numismatists delve into the history, production, and meaning behind coins and currency. They study the designs, inscriptions, minting techniques, and the economic and political context in which the coins were used.

3. Grading and Authentication: Experienced numismatists may develop the skills to grade and authenticate coins. They examine the characteristics of the coins to determine their condition, genuineness, and any potential alterations or counterfeits. 

4. Numismatic Organizations and Events: Numismatists often join local or international numismatic organizations to connect with fellow collectors, participate in discussions and forums, and attend numismatic events such as coin shows, auctions, and exhibitions.

5. Conservation and Preservation: Numismatists are interested in preserving and protecting numismatic objects. They may engage in conservation techniques to prevent further deterioration of coins, such as proper storage, cleaning, and handling practices. 

Numismatists contribute to the field through their knowledge, research, and expertise, which aids in the understanding and appreciation of coins and currency as important historical artifacts.

Origins of the word "numismatist"

The word "numismatist" is derived from the Greek word "nomisma," which means "coin." The term "numismatist" was coined in the early 19th century and was first used in English in the 1820s.

The word "numismatist" was formed by adding the suffix "-ist" to "numisma," indicating a person who has a particular interest, expertise, or occupation related to coins. This suffix is commonly used in English to form words denoting someone involved in a specific field of study or practice.

The field of numismatics, the study of coins and currency, had been developing as a distinct discipline for centuries before the term "numismatist" came into common usage. However, the word itself helped establish a specific identity for individuals engaged in the study, collection, and research of coins.

Today, "numismatist" is the widely recognized term used to refer to individuals who have a deep interest in coins, banknotes, and related objects, and who actively pursue the knowledge, collection, and study of these numismatic items.

 

Why is the dollar referred to as a 'buck'?

The term "buck" as a slang term for the dollar has an interesting origin. There are a few theories regarding its etymology, but one commonly accepted explanation is related to the historical use of buckskins as a form of currency in early America.

During the colonial era, before the United States had its own currency, various forms of exchange were used. One such medium of exchange was the buckskin, which referred to the hides of deer or bucks. These buckskins were valued and traded among early settlers, Native Americans, and fur traders.

Over time, the term "buck" became associated with the idea of a unit of value. As the United States established its own currency, the dollar, the slang term "buck" continued to be used to refer to the currency.

Another theory suggests that the term "buck" originated from poker games in the 19th century. In those games, a buckhorn-handled knife was often used to mark the position of the dealer. This marker was known as a "buck." Eventually, the term was extended to represent a dollar.

Regardless of the exact origin, "buck" has become a widely recognized slang term for the dollar, and it is still commonly used today.

The Barber Dime

The Barber Dime, also known as the Liberty Head Dime, is a coin that was minted in the United States from 1892 to 1916. It was designed by Charles E. Barber, who was the Chief Engraver at the United States Mint at the time.

The Barber Dime was part of a series of coins known as the "Barber coinage," which also included the Barber Quarter and Barber Half Dollar. These coins were designed to replace the Seated Liberty coinage that had been in circulation since the 1830s.

The obverse (front) of the Barber Dime features the head of Liberty facing right, wearing a Phrygian cap with the word "LIBERTY" inscribed above. The date of issue is located below the head of Liberty. The reverse (back) of the coin features a wreath encircling the denomination "ONE DIME" and the words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA."

The Barber Dime was minted in Philadelphia, New Orleans, San Francisco, and, for a brief period, in Denver. The mint marks indicating the location of minting can be found on the reverse of the coin, below the wreath. The mint marks include "O" for New Orleans, "S" for San Francisco, and "D" for Denver.

During its production run, the Barber Dime went through several design modifications. The most notable changes occurred in 1892 and 1916. In 1892, the words "IN GOD WE TRUST" were added to the reverse of the coin above the wreath. In 1916, the design was replaced with the Mercury Dime, which featured a depiction of Liberty wearing a winged cap.

The Barber Dime is considered a popular coin among collectors due to its historical significance and attractive design. However, its value can vary depending on factors such as condition, rarity, and mint mark. Some Barber Dimes, particularly those with low mintages or in exceptional condition, can be quite valuable to collectors.

Key Dates

The Barber Dime series includes several key dates that are sought after by collectors due to their rarity and historical significance. Here are some of the key dates and mintages for Barber Dimes:

1894-S Barber Dime: This is considered the key date of the series and is extremely rare. Only 24 specimens are believed to exist, making it highly valuable.

1895-O Barber Dime: The New Orleans mint produced only 440,000 dimes in 1895, making it one of the scarcer dates in the series.\

1896-S Barber Dime: With a mintage of only 575,056 dimes, the 1896-S is another low-mintage date that is difficult to find in higher grades.

1901-S Barber Dime: The San Francisco mint struck just 593,022 dimes in 1901, making it a scarce date in the series.

1903-S Barber Dime: This date has a mintage of 613,300 dimes and is considered relatively scarce, particularly in higher grades.

1904-S Barber Dime: With a mintage of 800,000 dimes, the 1904-S is another low-mintage date that is highly sought after by collectors.

1913-S Barber Dime: This is the final year of the Barber Dime series, and the San Francisco mint produced just 510,000 dimes, making it one of the scarcer dates in the series.

These key dates are generally more valuable than other dates in the series, especially when found in higher grades. However, it's important to note that the condition, rarity, and demand for a specific coin can greatly influence its value.

The Seated Liberty Twenty Cent Coin

The Twenty Cent coin was a unique denomination produced by the United States Mint for a brief period of time. It was introduced in 1875 and was intended to alleviate the shortage of small change in circulation. The coin featured the image of Liberty on the obverse (front) and a wreath on the reverse (back).

The Seated Liberty Twenty Cent coin was minted from 1875 to 1878 and features a seated representation of Liberty on the obverse. The reverse depicts a wreath with the denomination "20 CENTS" inscribed within it. The design of the coin was created by Chief Engraver William Barber.

The Twenty Cent coin was slightly larger in diameter than the quarter dollar but had a smooth edge, distinguishing it from the quarter. The coin was made of 90% silver and 10% copper, with a weight of 5 grams.

The Seated Liberty Twenty Cent coin was introduced to address the need for a small denomination coin between the dime and quarter, but it faced difficulties in gaining acceptance. Its resemblance to the quarter, coupled with public confusion and limited use, led to its discontinuation after just a few years of production.

Despite its short-lived production, the Twenty Cent coin was not widely accepted and used in daily transactions. The public confusion with the similarly sized quarter and a lack of popular demand led to its discontinuation after only a year of minting. The last Twenty Cent coins were produced in 1878.

Today, the Twenty Cent coin is considered a numismatic rarity and is sought after by coin collectors. It has historical significance as a unique and short-lived denomination in the history of United States coinage. The value of an Twenty Cent coin can vary depending on its condition and other factors, but it can be quite valuable in good condition.

Colonial Coins

US Colonial coins refer to a series of coins that were minted and circulated in the American colonies before the establishment of the United States Mint. These coins were issued by various colonial governments and private individuals to meet the need for a medium of exchange in the colonies.

During the colonial period, several types of coins were in circulation, including English, Spanish, and Portuguese coins. However, due to the scarcity of these coins, the colonists began to produce their own coins as a means of trade.

The most famous colonial coin is the Massachusetts Bay Colony silver coin, known as the "Pine Tree Shilling." These coins were minted in the mid-17th century and featured a distinctive design with a pine tree on the obverse and the denomination on the reverse. The Pine Tree Shillings were widely used in New England and are highly sought after by collectors today.

Other notable colonial coins include the Virginia halfpenny, the Maryland coinage (such as the Lord Baltimore coinage), the New Jersey coppers, and the Vermont copper coins. Each of these coins had unique designs and circulated within their respective colonies.

It's important to note that the colonial coins were not standardized and varied in terms of design, weight, and fineness. The lack of a central mint and standardized coinage system meant that the colonial coins were often subject to counterfeiting and had varying degrees of acceptance.

Today, colonial coins are highly collectible and sought after by numismatists and historians. They offer a glimpse into the economic and cultural history of the American colonies and provide valuable insights into the early days of American coinage.

Colonials Are:

Massachusetts Silver Coins (1652-1662)

Pre-1776 States Coinage (1652-1774)

Pre-1776 Private and Regional Issues (1616-1766)

French Colonies (1670-1767)

Post-1776 States Coinage (1776-1788)

Post-1776 Private and Regional Issues (1778-1820)

Proposed National Issues (1776-1787)

Washington Pieces (1783-1800)

Libertas Americana Medals (1781)

Regulated Gold (1725-1825)

The Two Cent Coin

The Two Cent piece refers to a series of United States coins that were minted between 1864 and 1873. It was introduced during the Civil War as a response to the increasing need for small-denomination coins. Prior to the Two Cent piece, the lowest denomination in circulation was the One Cent coin, which was insufficient for making small purchases and conducting day-to-day transactions.

The design of the Two Cent piece featured a shield on the obverse (front) and a wreath on the reverse (back). The shield was intended to symbolize the Union, while the wreath represented the agricultural nature of the nation. The coins were composed of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc, giving them a bronze-like appearance.

The Two Cent piece was the first coin to bear the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST." This inscription was added to the coin's design in 1864, during a time of national crisis and as a reflection of the religious sentiment prevalent among many Americans.

The production of the Two Cent piece faced several challenges. The coin was not widely accepted by the public, and there were issues with the design's durability. The coins were prone to wearing quickly and developing a reddish color due to their high copper content. Additionally, counterfeiters often gilded the coins with gold to pass them off as higher-value denominations.

The Two Cent piece series was discontinued in 1873 due to a decrease in demand and issues with its practicality. By that time, the economic situation had stabilized, and the need for small denomination coins had diminished. The Mint ceased production of the coin, and it was eventually phased out of circulation.

Today, the Two Cent piece is considered a numismatic curiosity and is highly sought after by coin collectors. Its relatively short production period and unique design make it a desirable addition to coin collections.

Key Dates

The United States Two Cent piece series spanned from 1864 to 1873, and there are a few key dates within this range that are particularly noteworthy for collectors. Here are the key dates of the U.S. Two Cent coin series:

1. 1864 Small Motto: The first year of the Two Cent piece series, 1864, had two varieties known as the "Large Motto" and the "Small Motto." The Small Motto variety is scarcer and more valuable. It features the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" with smaller letters above the shield on the obverse.

2. 1864 Large Motto: As mentioned earlier, the 1864 Large Motto variety is the other variety of the first-year issue. It has larger letters for the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" above the shield on the obverse.

3. 1865: This year saw relatively low mintages for the Two Cent piece, making all coins from 1865 scarcer than other dates. Collectors often seek out this date due to its lower availability.

4. 1867: The 1867 Two Cent piece has a relatively low mintage, particularly compared to the preceding and subsequent years. This date is considered scarce and desirable among collectors.

5. 1872: The 1872 Two Cent piece had a significantly low mintage, making it one of the rarest and most sought-after dates in the series. It is challenging to find in higher grades, and examples in well-preserved condition command high prices.

It's worth noting that while these dates are generally considered more desirable among collectors, the entire series of Two Cent pieces can be challenging to find in higher grades due to factors such as low mintages, circulation wear, and natural toning that occurred over time. As with any collectible coin, the value of these key dates will vary based on their condition, rarity, and demand in the market.

The Braided Hair Cent

 The Braided Hair Cent was a type of penny, or one-cent coin, that was issued by the United States Mint from 1839 to 1857. It was the last design of the large cent series, which had been produced since the founding of the United States in 1793. The Braided Hair Cent is also sometimes referred to as the Coronet Head Cent, as it featured the image of Lady Liberty wearing a coronet or small crown.

The design of the Braided Hair Cent was created by Christian Gobrecht, who was the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint at the time. The obverse (front) of the coin depicted a right-facing image of Lady Liberty with her hair tightly braided and wearing a coronet with the inscription "LIBERTY" across the band. The date of minting appeared below Liberty's portrait.

On the reverse (back) of the coin, there was an image of a wreath consisting of olive branches tied together with a ribbon. Inside the wreath, the denomination "ONE CENT" was inscribed, with the words separated by small dots. The inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" appeared in an arc above the wreath.

The Braided Hair Cent was minted in various locations, including Philadelphia, New Orleans, and San Francisco. It was composed of 100% copper and had a diameter of 27 mm. Over the years of production, there were several minor modifications made to the design, such as changes in the size of the date or modifications to the wreath on the reverse.

During its circulation, the Braided Hair Cent faced issues with wear and tear due to its large size and heavy use. In 1857, it was ultimately replaced by the smaller Flying Eagle Cent, which was made of an alloy of copper and nickel. The Flying Eagle Cent marked a transition to a new era of smaller, more practical coinage in the United States.

Today, the Braided Hair Cent is a sought-after collectible coin. Due to its age and limited mintage, it has become a prized item for numismatists and coin collectors. The historical significance and unique design make it a fascinating piece of American numismatic history.

Lincoln Memorial Key Dates

The Lincoln Memorial cents, also known as Lincoln Memorial pennies, were issued by the United States Mint from 1959 to 2008. Here are some key dates and notable variations for Lincoln Memorial cents:

1959: The first year of issue for the Lincoln Memorial cent, replacing the Wheat cent design.

1960: Small Date and Large Date varieties were minted, with the Small Date being rarer.

1970-S: A small number of cents were mistakenly struck with a 1969-S mint mark, making them valuable.

1982: The composition of the cent changed from 95% copper and 5% zinc to 97.5% zinc and 2.5% copper due to rising metal costs. Both copper and zinc versions were minted this year.

1983: The composition of the cent was permanently changed to the current 97.5% zinc and 2.5% copper.

1984: The "D" mint mark was added to denote coins struck at the Denver Mint.

1992: Close AM and Wide AM varieties exist, referring to the spacing of the letters "A" and "M" in "AMERICA" on the reverse side. The Close AM variety is scarcer and more valuable.

1995: Doubled Die Obverse variety exists, where the obverse design has a doubling effect. These are rare and sought after by collectors.

1999: The reverse design was modified to include the initials "FG" (for Frank Gasparro, the coin's designer) on the bottom right side of the base of the Lincoln Memorial.

2009: Special bicentennial cent designs were issued to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Lincoln's birth. Four different reverse designs were released throughout the year.

These are just a few notable dates and varieties for Lincoln Memorial cents. There may be other variations or errors that are of interest to collectors. If you are specifically looking for information on a particular date or variety, please let me know, and I'll provide more details if available.

The Fugio 1C United States

The Fugio Cent is a fascinating piece of American history, as it holds the distinction of being the first official coinage issued by the United States government. It was designed by Benjamin Franklin and produced in 1787. The name "Fugio" comes from the Latin phrase "Fugio," which translates to "I fly" or "I flee." The coin features a sundial on the front with the Latin inscription "Fugio" and the English inscription "Mind your business." The reverse side displays thirteen linked rings, representing the original thirteen colonies, with the inscription "We are one" and the date "1787."

The Fugio Cent was authorized by the Continental Congress, which was the governing body of the United States during the American Revolution. The coins were produced in copper and were intended to serve as a reliable medium of exchange for the newly formed nation. However, due to financial difficulties and the limited availability of copper, the production of Fugio Cents was relatively low, and they were not widely circulated.

The design of the Fugio Cent reflects the values and ideals of the time. The sundial and the motto "Mind your business" symbolize the importance of time and the need for individuals to focus on their own affairs and responsibilities. The interconnected rings and the motto "We are one" represent the unity of the thirteen colonies and their shared destiny.

Although the Fugio Cents did not play a significant role in everyday commerce, they hold historical importance as the first official coins authorized by the United States. They serve as a testament to the early efforts to establish a national currency and the aspirations of the young nation. Today, Fugio Cents are highly sought after by collectors and numismatists, making them valuable artifacts of American history.

PCGS: 1787 Fugio 1C United States, Cross after Date, BN (Regular Strike) Fugio Cents - PCGS CoinFacts

The Roosevelt Dime

The Roosevelt Dime is a United States coin that was first issued in 1946. It was introduced to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who served as the 32nd President of the United States from 1933 until his death in 1945.

The decision to create a new dime featuring Roosevelt was made shortly after his death in April 1945. The dime's design was a departure from the previous design, which featured a depiction of Liberty on the obverse (front) and a fasces, an ancient Roman symbol of authority, on the reverse (back). The new design was chosen to honor Roosevelt's leadership during the Great Depression and World War II.

The obverse of the Roosevelt Dime features a left-facing portrait of President Roosevelt, with the inscription "LIBERTY" above his head and the year of minting below. The reverse depicts a torch, an olive branch, and an oak branch, symbolizing liberty, peace, and strength, respectively. The reverse also includes the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "E PLURIBUS UNUM" (meaning "Out of many, one"), and the denomination "ONE DIME."

The Roosevelt Dime was designed by sculptor John R. Sinnock, who was the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint at the time. The coin has a diameter of 17.91 millimeters and is composed of a 90% silver and 10% copper alloy. From its introduction in 1946 until 1964, the Roosevelt Dime was minted with a silver composition. However, starting in 1965, the coin's composition was changed to a copper-nickel clad, similar to other circulating dimes.

Over the years, there have been some modifications to the design of the Roosevelt Dime. In 1965, the initials "JS" were added to the coin, representing the designer, John Sinnock. In 1996, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the dime, a special reverse design featuring a torch, an olive branch, and an oak branch was issued. This design, known as the "Winged Liberty" or "Mercury Dime" design, was used only in 1996 and is not part of the regular circulating series.

Since its introduction, the Roosevelt Dime has remained in circulation and continues to be minted by the United States Mint. It has become one of the most widely recognized and collected coins in the United States. The dime's design and its association with President Roosevelt make it a popular choice for numismatists and coin collectors.

Here are some key dates and notable varieties of the Roosevelt Dime:

1946: The first year of the Roosevelt Dime series, minted in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco.

1949-S: The 1949-S Roosevelt Dime is considered a key date due to its relatively low mintage of 13.5 million coins. It is sought after by collectors.

1950-D: The 1950-D Roosevelt Dime is another key date with a mintage of 17.3 million coins, making it scarcer compared to other dates in the series.

1955: In 1955, the Philadelphia Mint made a small number of dimes with a doubled die obverse, resulting in a noticeable doubling of the inscriptions and design elements. These are known as the "1955 Doubled Die" dimes and are highly sought after by collectors.

1964: The last year that the Roosevelt Dime was minted with a 90% silver composition. After this, the coin's silver content was reduced to 0%.

1996-W: In 1996, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Roosevelt Dime, a special edition was minted at the West Point Mint with a "W" mint mark. These are known as the "1996-W Roosevelt Dimes" and are highly prized by collectors.

These are just a few of the key dates and varieties of the Roosevelt Dime. Collectors also pay attention to mintmarks, errors, and other minor variations that can add value and interest to a collection.

Key Dates: Liberty Nickels

 The Liberty Nickel, also known as the "V" Nickel due to the large "V" on the reverse side, was minted in the United States from 1883 to 1913. Here are some key dates and notable varieties of the Liberty Nickel:

1. 1883 (With Cents): The first year of production for the Liberty Nickel. Initially, the coins were minted without the word "CENTS" on the reverse side, leading to some individuals gold-plating the coins and passing them off as five-dollar gold pieces. To prevent this, the design was modified later in the year to include the word "CENTS" below the roman numeral "V."

2. 1885: The mintage of nickels in 1885 was relatively low, making them quite rare. Only 1,472,700 coins were produced, and surviving specimens are highly sought after by collectors.

3. 1886: Another low mintage year, with only 3,326,000 nickels minted. This date is considered scarce, particularly in higher grades.

4. 1912-S: The 1912-S Liberty Nickel is notable because it was struck at the San Francisco Mint. The "S" mintmark is located on the reverse side, below the wreath. It has a lower mintage compared to other dates, making it more desirable among collectors.

5. 1913: The last year of production for the Liberty Nickel. However, it is important to note that in 1913, the Buffalo Nickel was introduced, and no Liberty Nickels were officially minted. However, five unauthorized specimens were struck illegally and have become some of the most famous and valuable coins in the world.

These key dates and varieties of the Liberty Nickel contribute to their numismatic value and desirability among coin collectors.

The Liberty Nickel

The Liberty Nickel, officially known as the "Shield Nickel," is a coin that was minted by the United States from 1866 to 1883. It holds historical significance as one of the first five-cent coins produced by the U.S. Mint.

The need for a new five-cent coin arose during the Civil War when the price of silver rose significantly. The previous five-cent coin, the Half Dime, was made of silver, and its intrinsic value exceeded its face value. This led to hoarding and melting of the coins, creating a shortage in circulation. To address this issue, the U.S. Mint began exploring the possibility of a new coin made of a different composition.

In 1865, Congress authorized the creation of a new five-cent coin that would be made of copper and nickel. The design of the coin featured a shield on the obverse (front) and the number "5" surrounded by stars on the reverse (back). This design, created by James B. Longacre, became known as the Shield Nickel.

The Shield Nickel was first minted in 1866 and continued to be produced until 1883. Throughout its production, the coin underwent a few modifications. In 1867, the rays between the stars on the reverse were removed due to striking issues. In 1883, the coin's design was replaced with the iconic Liberty Head design, which features a left-facing portrait of Liberty on the obverse and a large Roman numeral "V" on the reverse.

The Liberty Nickel has a few notable variations and rarities. In 1880, a few coins were mistakenly minted without the word "CENTS" on the reverse, leading to the creation of the rare and highly sought-after "1880 Shield Nickel No Cents" variety. Additionally, in 1912, a five-cent coin was released featuring a portrait of a Native American on the obverse and a buffalo on the reverse, which became known as the Buffalo Nickel.

Overall, the Liberty Nickel played an important role in the history of U.S. coinage. It marked a transition from silver to copper-nickel composition for the five-cent coin and paved the way for subsequent designs such as the Buffalo Nickel and the Jefferson Nickel, which is still in circulation today.

The Franklin Half Dollar

 The Franklin Half Dollar is a coin that was minted by the United States Mint from 1948 to 1963. It was designed by John R. Sinnock, who was the Chief Engraver of the Mint at the time. The coin was created to commemorate one of America's founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin.

The Franklin Half Dollar features a portrait of Benjamin Franklin on the obverse (front) side of the coin. Franklin was a polymath and one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. He was known for his contributions as a writer, inventor, scientist, and statesman. The obverse of the coin also includes the word "Liberty" above Franklin's portrait and the phrase "In God We Trust" below.

The reverse (back) side of the Franklin Half Dollar depicts the Liberty Bell. Above the bell, there is the phrase "United States of America," and below it, the denomination "Half Dollar" and the mint mark.

The coin was minted in 90% silver and 10% copper, with a diameter of 30.6 mm and a weight of 12.5 grams. It was struck at several U.S. Mint facilities, including Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco.

The Franklin Half Dollar was introduced to replace the Walking Liberty Half Dollar, which had been in circulation since 1916. The design of the Franklin Half Dollar was chosen through a public competition organized by the Mint. Sinnock's design was selected, although it faced some controversy and criticism due to the portrayal of Franklin, particularly the resemblance to a Communist leader, which was alleged by some.

The coin was first minted in 1948 and remained in production until 1963. In 1964, the Kennedy Half Dollar was introduced following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, and the Franklin Half Dollar was phased out of circulation.

Today, the Franklin Half Dollar is highly sought after by coin collectors and numismatists. Its design, historical significance, and limited mintage make it a popular choice for collectors.

Full Bell Lines

The term "FBL" in relation to Franklin Half Dollars stands for "Full Bell Lines." It is a grading designation used by coin collectors and experts to describe the condition and quality of the coin's design on the reverse side, specifically the lines on the Liberty Bell.

When examining a Franklin Half Dollar, collectors pay close attention to the horizontal lines on the Liberty Bell design on the reverse side. A coin with Full Bell Lines (FBL) exhibits complete and unbroken lines across the entire width of the bell, including the clapper. These lines should be sharp and distinct.

The presence of Full Bell Lines is considered desirable and adds value to the coin because it indicates that the strike was strong and the details of the design are well-preserved. A Franklin Half Dollar with Full Bell Lines is generally considered to be of higher quality and more visually appealing than those without.

The designation "FBL-64" specifically refers to a Franklin Half Dollar graded as "Choice Uncirculated" (CU) or "Mint State-64" (MS-64) by a professional grading service, such as the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC). In this case, it means that the coin is in excellent condition, with minor imperfections visible under magnification. It retains a significant amount of its original mint luster and has a strong strike, including Full Bell Lines on the Liberty Bell design.

Collectors often seek out Franklin Half Dollars with Full Bell Lines, especially those graded as FBL-64 or higher, due to their aesthetic appeal and numismatic value.

Coin Grading

The coin grading system is a standardized method used to evaluate the condition or state of preservation of a coin. It helps collectors and dealers determine the value and rarity of a coin by assigning it a grade based on its physical characteristics. The most commonly used grading system is the Sheldon Coin Grading Scale, which was developed by Dr. William Sheldon in the late 1940s.

The Sheldon Coin Grading Scale uses a numerical grading system ranging from 1 to 70, with 70 being the highest grade. Each grade represents a different level of wear, damage, or overall quality. Here is a brief overview of the different grades:

1. Poor (P-1): Barely identifiable features, heavy wear, and damage.
2. Fair (FR-2): Major details visible but mostly worn flat.
3. About Good (AG-3): Design outlines visible with some lettering and major features discernible.
4. Good (G-4): Basic design details visible, but heavily worn.
5. Very Good (VG-8): Major features clear, but moderate wear overall.
6. Fine (F-12): Design details sharp, with moderate wear on the higher points.
7. Very Fine (VF-20): Minor details visible, moderate wear on the higher points.
8. Extremely Fine (EF-40): Design elements clear, light wear on the higher points.
9. About Uncirculated (AU-50): Traces of wear on the highest points, with most design details sharp.
10. Uncirculated (MS-60 to MS-70): No signs of wear, with varying degrees of mint luster and possible surface imperfections. MS-70 is considered perfect.

In addition to the Sheldon Scale, other grading systems, such as the numerical system used by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), also exist. These systems may have slight variations in grading standards and terminology but generally follow a similar approach to assess a coin's condition.

It's important to note that coin grading is a subjective process, and different graders or grading services may have slightly different interpretations of a coin's condition. Therefore, it's recommended to consult reputable grading services or experts when determining the grade and value of a coin.