- Grade and Condition: AU50, or “About Uncirculated,” suggests that the coin has only slight wear, particularly on the highest points of the design. However, the “cleaned” designation indicates that the coin’s surface has been altered, which can reduce its numismatic appeal and value. Cleaning often diminishes a coin’s original luster and natural patina, which are typically desirable features for collectors.
- “Cleaned” Designation: When a coin is cleaned, it often loses some of its natural toning or develops hairline scratches. This can result in a less authentic look, especially under magnification. Collectors generally prefer coins with original surfaces, so a cleaned designation often impacts market value, though it’s still an attractive piece in AU50 with visible details.
- Historical Context: The 20-cent piece is a short-lived denomination introduced in part to address the coin shortage in the Western United States. The 1875-S, struck in San Francisco, is one of the more available dates, especially compared to other 20-cent pieces, like the rarer Philadelphia issues. The Liberty Seated design features Liberty seated on a rock, similar to other denominations of the era, with an eagle on the reverse.
- Market Value: While cleaned coins tend to have a lower market value, this AU50 example can still be a relatively affordable way to add a 20-cent piece to a collection, especially for someone interested in unique or short-lived denominations. The cleaning designation may deter some high-end collectors but is often more acceptable among those looking for a quality example at a more accessible price.
This 1875-S coin offers a glimpse into a fascinating part of U.S. numismatic history, and while the cleaning does impact its collector value, it can still serve as a conversation piece in a historical collection. Are you interested in the 20-cent series as a whole, or perhaps in acquiring more coins from short-lived denominations?
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