Plugged coins

[TJ91]

Hi all!

 

I’ve been collecting on and off for a few years but only recently decided to try and take it up seriously.

Came across this Henry VII plugged groat at a fair which after some deliberation I decided to buy as apart from the plug I thought was a really nice example but just wondering what people’s views are on plugged coins generally - do other collectors avoid them altogether and do they hold any value? I thought the price was reasonable given the plug but wonder what others views are.

Would others buy a plugged coin to fill a gap or go for a lower grade, non-damaged, coin instead? 

Thanks!

[Paddy]

I guess most "serious" collectors would avoid plugged coins, or any other damage. But if that is the only way you can fill a gap within budget, then go for it! 

I have a number of damaged coins in my collection - some with engravings in the field, some ex-mount, some hammered even missing fragments, but they will fill the gaps until and unless I can afford to replace them with something better.

Here, for example, is my William I penny. I would love to have one without the missing chunk, but until one comes along at a price I am happy with, it will stay with me.

Your Henry VII, by the way, is a lovely example apart from the plug.

[Citizen H]

similar as Paddy I have coins that have holes in them and counter stamped. I have others that have been engraved as love tokens, nice enough in there own right.   👍

[Paddy]

I think all these alterations add to the history. A plug means someone thought it interesting enough to use as a medallion or touch piece, then someone later felt it was interesting enough to repair. Engravings are often love tokens or claims to ownership. A split or fragment means it has been in the ground for some time.

I think that is why I find perfect proof coins a bit dull.