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Absolute Magic I just had to copy and paste this !!!

Considering over 100 million were struck, I found this one of the harder dates to find in top grade/with a good strike. I think this would be my 3rd upgrade, but definitely getting there. Very happy.

Auction now online

Or should it be... ON'E I noticed it when writing the title, the dot flaws go in order; O'NE 1897 ON'E 1909 ONE' 1946 Now I just need a 'ONE FLAW

I've been taking a look, some have real eye appeal. I'm not a penny collector as such, I think I only have around 6, but I'm tempted to bid on some I like the look of. There are a few very nice gothic florins in the upcoming DNW auction. As I'm sure you already know.

Thats nice Matt

I'll just have one last say on the subject as someone with an obsolete Chemistry degree from the sixties. Acetone (dimethyl ketone) is an excellent organic solvent that efficiently dissolves all sorts of organic (carbon-based) matter, which is why it's used as nail varnish remover. When applied to a coin it will dissolve some of the dirt into a solution that must be wiped off, otherwise the acetone will simply and swiftly evaporate (its boiling point is below normal room temperature) and leave the dirt, possibly in a different place. The acetone will not react with the metal content of the coin. Just putting acetone onto the coin and leaving it to evaporate will therefore not achieve anything. But it does aid the removal of surface matter which must be wiped off with a cotton bud or something soft. Rubbing the coin gently with a cotton bud soaked in acetone should remove much grime without scarring the surface. That's the science but everyone will have their beliefs and opinions which must be tolerated - that's life !!

Here are a few basic facts to add to the discussion. Impurities are typically at the 1 part in a billion level or less. Please see attached. For the record, this data refers to analytical grade acetone. Different grades will have different impurity levels.

Fair enough Pete, we have to disagree on this issue. But for general information, I have seen nail varnish remover equated with acetone; numismatically, they are not the same, nail varnish remover contains additives, wheras pure acetone is 100% volatile. If anybody does decide to experiment, and by all means choose low value coins first, only use pure acetone. Jerry

Thank you so much Matteo & Rob. As usual great information, and plenty for what I need for my display. I'm a little ashamed knew nothing about my local mint. Ian..