2003 Maine States Quarter Toning? Coloring Atmosphere Damage? 0

[slk4coins]

Toning? Atmosphere Damage? Hello all, This is probably not an error coin, but wanted to run it past you all. I did find a war nickel that was very dark obverse, reverse and completely around edges. I believe that was a black beauty. Just like this coin either way and was wondering.

[Greenstang]

Looks like Environmental Toning to me.

[slk4coins]

I shouldn''t have been surprised.....thank you so much for even answering this post.....I appreciate it very much...

[Kirt]

Yeah, it's interesting - I've seen that really dark toning on several state and subsequent commemorative quarters, but not on prior clad quarters. The composition shifted from 3:1 Cu/Ni on the cladding to almost 92% copper; I suspect the increased copper at the surface of the coin creates that darker toning. I personally find it really unappealing and unfortunate as it ruins the detailed design.

[Just Bob]

Let's go back to your first post for a minute and discuss the "Black Beauty." I don't have a whole lot of experience with these, nor have I done much research, but I seem to recall that they were nickels produced in the late 50's that were toned a gunmetal color all over. I have heard that it was caused by improperly annealed planchets, or improper mixing of the alloy. There may have been another explanation given, as well. Like I said, I haven't studied them much.

Your war nickel was made of a different alloy. The dark color that you see is likely from the silver content. Pretty much anything containing silver will tone/tarnish, from a silver coin to Great Aunt Martha's silverware.