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A simple question: What is it and how is a satin finish coin? please put a picture, thanks
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Satin Finish coins look different from regular coins because the dies are sandblasted with a fine mixture of sand and glass beads. Also according to the Mint, “Uncirculated coins are minted on special presses and are struck with greater force than circulation coins, producing a sharp, intricately detailed image.”
Since 2005 the mint has been producing mint sets with satin finish.
They are very distinctive. Here is a decent full photo of one:
Also checkout several close-ups of Satin Finish coins among the 2009 formative years Doubled Dies on John Wexler’s site:
Interesting to note.. The Lincoln Cents included in the 2009 Mint sets set are struck in a special composition of 95% copper, 3% zinc, and 2% tin, which matches the composition used for the original 1909 Lincoln Cents. This composition was provided under the same authorization which allowed the creation of four different reverse designs. Lincoln Cents with this metallic content are included in the 2009 Proof Set, 2009 Silver Proof Set, 2009 Mint Set, 2009 Lincoln Proof Set, and 2009 Lincoln Coin and Chronicles Set. The 2009 Lincoln Cents issued for actual circulation have a standard copper coated zinc composition with 97.5% zinc and 2.5% copper.
Some feel that despite the extra time taken by the United States Mint, the satin finish 95% 2009 Lincoln Cents might be more susceptible to tarnish than regular zinc composition sets.
In fact. the US Mint issued this message to accompany the 2009 Uncirculated Mint Set:
“Given the metallic composition used for the 2009 uncirculated one-cent coins, the same used for the original 1909 Lincoln Cents, the alloy readily tarnishes. The United States Mint has used anti-tarnish treatments to minimize this impact on the appearance of the uncirculated coins. However the alloy used for the one-cent coins in this years’ uncirculated coin set is expected to tarnish more over time than the previous years’ plated zinc one-cent coins”. We shall see over time. But it is an ages old issue with any copper coin and proper storage and handling is of utmost importance.
Other interesting read about Mint Sets is David Harper’s The Buzz Article a few month back..
Last edited by Wheat Cents; 01-31-2010, 07:35 AM.Lincoln Cent Variety Enthusiast -
This taught me much help, thanks
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Great job Wheatcents! I learned something new today because of your reply to celartu.
Thank You,
JeanComment
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As Arte Johnson used to say.... Verrry Interrestingg.
DWKComment
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