COLOR CODING COPPER COINAGE posted by DM Merrill Associates, Inc.

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When does BN become RB; become RED?

 

Over the years, I've become fairly comfortable with my grading skills. This confidence has generally been confirmed by results

from certification or sale. Reliance on TPG's has made me a bit lazy and my grading skills a bit "rusty".

 

But, one issue that has always given me a degree of discomfort is assessing the color designation of copper coinage. Sure, solid BROWN and bright RED are easy, but when does BN transition to RB? And what is the demarcation between RB and RED?

I've never been comfortable with my ability to delineate these transition points.

 

Are there any rules? I am unaware of any specific guidelines such as are found in assessing a coin's grade due to wear.

 

Today's numismatic project for me is to go through my 2 Cent Registry Collection, and review the color designations. I will update my opinion of each coin in the registry comments.

 

Last thought: I would love to see an eplanatory article on Copper Color Designation Guidelines from the NGC Experts. Perhaps even establish a forum with occasional releases on key topics. Here's a suggested title: "WISDOM FROM THE GRADING ROOM"

 

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