Lot 629
1842 N-8 R1 "Rays Obverse" VG10. This was a normal cent that was submerged in an acid solution (obverse down is my guess) and left to pickle for some time. The bath left strong radial lines covering the obverse fields creating an impressive "rays" look with the rays radiating from behind the portrait. The weight has been reduced to a very low 115.7 grains in the process. Pickling of varying degrees is sometimes found on large cents, and it is rumored cents were added purposely to the brine in pickle barrels to enhance the green color of the end product or perform some other useful service. Sounds unhealthy in many ways, but then a lot of what we did years ago clearly falls into that category based on today’s science. Anyway, this interesting cent is an attractive glossy medium brown with olive brown toning covering the protected areas. The rays are the lighter tone while the valleys between them are the darker olive shade, and this two-tone look really highlights the effect. The end result is a cent with real artistic qualities. DWH #2649.
Estimated Value $20-UP.
Ex Richard Picker-Tony Terranova 4/22/05.
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| Realized $299 |
