Sample coin 1 1

[Cableguy418]

I just happen to come into possession of a 1964 Kennedy half dollar in this sites grading packaging but instead of a grade it says SAMPLE FA 00 then a number guide. What is this and what is it for?

[Lem E]

Most likely a sample slab from a coin show. Usually has a lower grade coin inside and given away at a show or event. Generally for marketing. Welcome to the forum by the way.

Edited April 2, 2022 by Lem E

[tj96]

You mean this one?

https://www.ebay.com/itm/143632721465

[Coinbuf]

Lem is correct, sample slabs were used by both major TPG's as handouts at major shows or events.   They still do but less often than in the past.   There is a niche group of collectors that like to collect these sample slabs and some are somewhat rare.

[Lem E]

Here is a newer version of a sample slab I picked up.

[Mr.Bill347]

So these are real genuine coins? Same weight and silver content? I’ve never been to a coin show, so not familiar with these at all.

[Lem E]

On 4/2/2022 at 7:20 PM, Mr.Bill347 said:

So these are real genuine coins? Same weight and silver content? I’ve never been to a coin show, so not familiar with these at all.

It is a real coin. Mine is kind of beat up. I believe this show was canceled due to covid. I bought it from ebay for $10.

[Just Bob]

There is even a website devoted to them:

https://www.sampleslabs.com/index.php

[Cableguy418]

Lol tj96 I have the exact thing except mine has 047 at the end of the number at the bottom! And the fact that you are tj96 is crazy. My son is Thomas Jr. We called him TJ since he was little and he was born in 1996. That's wild

[Cableguy418]

I love that coin Lem. Very nice ty for sharing

[James Zyskowski]

I’ve got one similar to this only 2015 I think. It’s put away. 
    These are as mentioned, party favors, mine was given out at a luncheon as I recall. 

[Cableguy418]

[VKurtB]

Sample slabs are still done. I have two from last July’s summer F.U.N. show alone. Don’t consign them to the dustbin of history yet. Heck, people might not even recognize them until somebody finds documents about them in some archive or something. 

[bsshog40]

Here's one I picked a few yrs ago.

[ldhair]

[tj96]

I guess this has turned into a show-me thread!  👍🏻