1923 S question for the experts

[cooper8273]

Hello

I found this 1923 S in a roll I just went through, but my question is why is it almost black? Is this possibly missing the outer copper coating (lamination error) or is this a less common normal aged coin?

Please let me know.

Thanks!!

[coop]

It may have been found outside, burned or tampered with to make it that color. But it is not a laimation issue. Don't clean it. I've seen coins that color totally flake off the dark area and left a pink/copper color ruined coin. Best to leave it as it is. It is still a 1923-S Cent.

[Maineman750]

There is no coating on cents until 1982..yours has just turned color due to environmental exposure.

[mustbebob]

It is some sort of environmental damage, or it may have been soaked in a chemical of some sort at one time. It still seems to have good detail on it though.