pennys

[anfieldmods]

how do i work out what is a rare penny or a normal penny i found 2 of the same date last week in the same field.1875 is the date but there a little grubby whats best to clean coins without damaging them.Also same goes about halfpennys as i found one too on the same date and one of 1862.cheers

[Peckris]

how do i work out what is a rare penny or a normal penny i found 2 of the same date last week in the same field.1875 is the date but there a little grubby whats best to clean coins without damaging them.Also same goes about halfpennys as i found one too on the same date and one of 1862.cheers

Hm. To identify a coin accurately you need to :

• consult the Spink Standard Catalogue available at any decent library

• or get a copy of the Collectors Coins GB guide as yours are post-1797 coins

• or post pictures or scans of them to this website and we can advise.

On the face of it, finds in a field are unlikely to be in a worthwhile condition, but you can lightly brush dirt off bronze using a non-scratching brush (bristle). Don't use any metal cleaners, polishes or abrasives - those will destroy any value the coins may have.

In the case of 1875 pennies the main thing to look for is a letter H beneath the date numerals, but even then, it wants to be in a reasonable condition (properly readable) to have any collectors' value.

The CCGB book only costs around £6 or £7 and lists all UK coins from 1797 onwards - it would be a good guide to identifying coins and to seeing what are the rare dates. You can order via this website or buy at Smiths/Waterstones/etc

P.S. I like your username - are you a Red? In which case I will fall on your shoulder sobbing at the season we just had

Edited May 13, 2010 by Peckris

[anfieldmods]

yes tis true i am a red and what a dire season we have had cheers for the info