Colin G.

You're right, at that price I would get something a more useful, and practical like a Pitts biplane. I have flown one before, oh so so fun, nothing like looping, barrel rolling etc at 1800 metres up. I would have thought the fake producers would be falling all over themselves to reproduce these, I think even I could knowck one of those up with a bit of time and patience. As you say not exactly eye candy!!!

Yes a much under rated coin. I've managed to put the whole run together including the all types in BU except for the 1948 sharp corners. Gary, I have never understood the sharp corners rounded corners thing, although I have to admit I have never really closely looked, I seem to remember hearing it somewhere. Is it an obvious difference and on what dates does it occur?

Hussulo, It would appear that the peruvian port of PISAGUA was occupied by Chilean troops during the war of the pacific that ended in 1883/4, and resulted in PISAGUA becoming part of Chile. So it may be a die for a medal given following the war or celebrating the occupation?

Hussulo, All the images in the Kraus catalogues bear the "REPUBLICA DE CHILE", so whether it was used for some form of bullion coin, or as you say some form of medal may be a possibility. Sorry no more information at present, let me know if you find anything out about it.

Hussulo, That is a very nice example, of what I think is a very attractive coin design (but not many people tend to agree with me). I have a near complete lustrous set of these (awaiting the 1946 and 1949) which to me have great eye appeal, and it is a set that can be put together on a restrictive budget. You certainly have an eye for obtaining appealing error coins!!!

Do you have any scans? Thanks Colin G.

Gary, I have to say I agree with your comments, and would add that by definition a "mule" is an obverse and reverse that were not intended to be paired, however due to some reason (probably an error) during the period of transition, some coins have been produced with a mismatch of intended obverse and reverse die pairings. If PCGS are defining the beaded designation by some partial beadings on the border then this does not constitute a mule. Whilst the labelling on the slab, would be interpreted by many collectors as detailing an example of the established mule variety, the labelling on the slab does not indicate it as a mule whilst the accompanying letter certainly does. They can call it what they wish, but it should not be clearly described as something it is not.

Ron, It is always encouraging to see personal representation especially from a large company like yourselves, and it really is a move to be commended. I can appreciate your comments about the "toothed/beaded" border designation, and the fact that it is not immediately clear, but the two different reverses that the major references class as toothed or beaded do have differences. When looking at a number of these farthings, it does become clearly apparent that a coin is either the toothed or beaded variety, even down to grades as low as fine. Historically in literature this has always been defined by the 3 rocks to the left of the lighthouse instead of the large single rock that appears, although as we all know only too well, coins do come to light that differ from the "norm" and hence become a new variety. The fact that new varieties are identified regularly further compounds the fact that the "3 rocks" factor is not a 100% guarantee that a coin can be classed as a Beaded Border. I have no doubt that there could well be a beaded border reverse out there with a single rock waiting to be discovered. I have provided an image comparing the beaded and toothed borders on several coins at various grades, and I think the difference is readily apparent, not only in the shape of the denticles/beads, which are consistent around the perimeter, but also when considering a section through the coin. Comparison Section The problem is that if I was purchasing a BB/TB mule, I would want to see this feature to determine that my investment was not at risk, unless I was 100% certain that it was a new variety. I also expect that many people would feel the same. However many other investors may not be aware of such distinguishing features and would want to choose the slabbed option, safe in the knowledge that an expert has authenticated the variety. As you say if there is a portion of the toothed border that has deteriorated to show beads then your description may well be accurate, but I would also suggest that it could be misleading to the buyer who may not be getting what they expect. I am not stating that the coin in question does not show a mix of beads and teeth, because without the coin in hand it would be difficult to be certain, and the fact remains it may well be a new variety. However my personal opinion was that it did not match what "historically" has been defined as a BB/TB Mule, and should ideally therefore not be labelled as such to avoid confusion similar to that which has already occurred. If the coin in question has mix of beaded and toothed on the reverse and toothed on the obverse, would it not be better labelled as a beaded & toothed obv/toothed rev mule, I can appreciate its a bit of a mouthful and could probably be better worded, but at least it is an accurate reflection of the coin in the holder. Fixed Link!! Comparison

Teg, I believe as you say there are very few people who posess the coins or knowledge to pull off such a complete catalogue, and that a collaberative effort would be the more likely solution. The trouble is trying to find people who can: Work collectively Commit the time required Cover the collection range involved Do you think Neil or others at Colin Cooke's will ever pick up his work and attempt to complete it, or do you think his work will remain an unfinished reference?

James, I had noticed that the link for the 1852 was playing up when I went to look at the 1852 E/E, I will have to look into it. In the meantime the page can be accessed by going to 1853 and pressing the < button. The problem with these minor varieties is the time it will take to accurately describe and catalogue them, figuring out how to present them, and finally deciding what the benefit is. Believe me when I say it is hard enough keeping track of the varieties I add to my site. My initial aim was to list the "clear" varieties, that can be accurately described, and I am getting the feeling that this in itself should keep me occupied for a considerable time!!!! Several dates are now already into double figures regarding obverse/reverse combinations, and maintaining the visual presentation is difficult when the varieties start to stack up (to ensure ease of comparison). Deciding the cut off point for inclusion into the site was difficult, I try to only include confirmed varieties, however even now I find myself adding/removing varieties, or redefining them on a regular basis due to more information becoming available. I have a mass of unconfirmed varieties awaiting confirmation or clarification, and hopefully in time I can clear some of them up thanks to submissions, images and questions from people like yourself. I don't think there is anything wrong in identifying these minor varieties, and it will be a mammoth task that I have no doubt someone will undertake one day. But you have to consider to what will these coins be collected due to this minor variation. I think it is more likely that this will occur on "clearer" varieties. As I gather and compare coins it continues to amaze me just how few coins can be confidently defined as a perfect die match. I would like to know how many farthings copper and bronze it is anticipated could be produced from a single die, to give some indication of the numbers of dies involved per year, but when you factor in die repairs, I have no doubt that figure would multiply dramatically!!!

James, I think of those listed, the top two interest me the most 1840 A/A in gratia (Pic attached~) - Not seen that one before, would you be willing to send a scan of obverse & reverse? 1852 E or F over E in Reg Doubled lettering on many letters in Brittania, also this has Briattaniar . no colon (Pic attached of E) - The one on my site is what appears to be an E over E which is slightly rotated. I can appreciate yours does look more like an F due to the step in the lower bar of the E. 1850 5 over 7 in date (need to get a range of pics for this) - Still waiting for a high grade example of each of these 1850 overdates to clarify the identifying features on each type. 1883 Looks like a forked R in Victoria (Pic attached) - I think you could be correct with cracked die theory on that one. 1860 .victoria also the V looks like a V/V (see pics) - Only partially visible repunches like this one are in abundance in the bronze and copper series, too many to list individually, unlike those above which are clearly visible and in both cases the presence of 2 individual letters can be confirmed. I also have these at 1200dpi if anyone wants to see them - Of course I do, send them through!!

I wondered if anyone has seen one of these before. The storey goes that there was an employee where my Grandad worked who made these for his workmates. To purchase one, you had to take 2 halfcrowns to him, he would make the ring out of one and keep the other as payment. The cupro-nickel does turn your finger green after a relatively short period , perhaps a silver one would have been better !! I must admit it is a fascinating item, I assume the coin was stretched into a thimble shape and then the top of the dome removed!! Ring Photo 1 Ring Photo 2 Ring Photo 3

Dean, Welcome to a forum occupied by some very pleasant and knowledgeable members, and a likeable host who has a soft spot for hedgehogs !! It is a very active forum (unlike many other coin forums), and you always seem to get numerous constructive and positive responses to your posts

I agree fascinating and informative site, and some stunning examples.

Oops responded to the gallery image not to the original post!! Yes it is the reverse 7 which has both H's fully visible.

I always found that this visual explanation was worth a look. Brockages Nice brockage examples by the way!!! very unusual to see a reverse brockage, I don't know whether there is a reason for this (i.e. whether the obverse die was always at the bottom of the press), perhaps someone else better informed can enlighten us.

It continues to amaze me how much is unrecorded on coin varieties, considering the time periods involved. I know there are people who question the definition of a variety, but these are all obviously from different dies or at different stages in the life of a die. This information obviously appeals to some collectors (myself included!!) and should therefore in my mind be investigated and recorded. I believe if Peck would have had the time he would have explored such variations, and comments in his publication confirm this, I know Colin Cooke always intended to do the same with farthings, but in all denominations it will be a massive undertaking. Thanks for sharing!!

Chris, the symptoms you describe do sound very "stroke" like, which could may have been caused by a bang to the head causing a bleed. Generally this affects one side, and the fact that his left eye does not open and he has no control over the left side of his mouth may indicate this. I must stop watching these medical documentaries, they convince us all we could be doctors

It always gives me a happy feeling to know there are still plenty of genuinely nice people left in the world, to offset all the nutters!! Good on ya Chris!! Lets hope Igor makes a speedy recovery!!

Teg, I can appreciate your comments regarding the owner, and maybe their appeal could have been worded a bit less aggressive, but I can also see their concerns. They are going to be selling a coin which they have had double checked by the "experts" and negative comments in relation to the coin could affect the sale price. It is not their fault that there are differing opinions on this coin, and at least they reacted to informed opinions the last time the item was put up for sale and sought confirmation before attempting to resell. At the end of the day the issue will be passed to the new owner, but so will the potential for recourse against the grading company. I thought I needed a better social life scanning every farthing that passes through my hands , but I have to admit, I have not yet started counting border beads That will give me something to do on Sunday afternoon

John As you say there are few references to these varieties, there appears to be no vast amount in difference between the 2 varieties in the Colin Cooke collection when you consider the prices/grades of the two examples. Realised prices Thick flan prooflike uncirculated - £800 Thin flan almost uncirculated - £650 Still a nice rare coin to own, I believe an example sold on ebay not too long ago for a similar price, but I am not 100% sure

Thanks for the update, and I would agree that the seller has now done all they can, and should be commended for their integrity!!

His introduction says the ENRB upholds standards of integrity and honesty in numismatics. No mention of artificial toning in the description though. That's a bit dishonest given that no coin could naturally tone to this degree in less than 10 years. Why do Americans like this sort of thing? How can so many people be so stupid? If prices get any higher for chemically treated lumps of metal, it will soon be cheaper to buy a Jackson Pollock. Presumably the above statement should read holds up standards as any standard would be higher. What amazes me is how can the grading company not make reference to the fact that this is artificial toning.

That coin creates a fantastic illusion of 3 strikes although on closer inspection is does appear to be only doublestruck!! Nice coin Hus

Peter, I agree that it is a farthing, not a halfpenny, but I would question whether it is struck on a halfpenny flan. I would have thought there would have been more of a surround to the coin, if it had been centrally struck. There should still be a surround beyond the graining if you position a farthing centrally onto a halfpenny flan. I think the seller has mis-attributed the denomination, but it is still a fascinating coin.