Lot 1593
1936 Albany Half Dollar. Each of these grades MS-66 or better. We are proud to offer a small hoard of superbly toned original commemorative half dollars. Coins from this group include the original cardboard holder which was used to ship the coins safely through the mail, and if the coins were left in these holders, as seen here, magnificent toning slowly appeared on the surfaces. The cardboard holder grades Very Fine or better, and shows few signs of wear or handling. Remarkably, these commemorative half dollars were put away since their time of issue, kept in the cardboard holders and allowed to tone without interruption for decades. Today we have stunning deep gold and flecks of darker hues on one side of each coin in this lot, the other side is toned with the familiar "tab" toning from the cardboard tab that held the coin in place. A small amount of sulfur in the cardboard holder (probably part of the paper making process) causes silver coins to tone, as well as exposure to the air (just look at any silver pieces around the house, and try keeping them bright). Over many years, magnificent colors can appear, as seen on the Benson coins or on these commemorative half dollars, and these "toned" coins can bring significant premiums depending on the organization and vibrancy of the toning hues.
Estimated Value $1,800-UP.
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| Realized $2,990 |
