I wasn't certain what to title this. Perhaps when good coins go bad? Ouch!

28 December 2024

All Barber Half Dollar Collectors...Avert Your Eyes!

I saved the images from a recent online auction venue where a seller offered this 1904-S Barber half dollar cut-out coin.  Yes, a 1904-S and not just a slick or cull, but a previously full EF coin.  Given the fact that the coin had so little wear to begin with, it is my guess that the piece is a contemporary cut-out coin and was produced near the year of issue.  While that assumption makes this less of a numismatic crime, it can still bring a tear to the eyes of those who adore the Barber half dollar series.

It was bad enough when I saw the date on the obverse...

but it got oh, so worse when the mintmark on the reverse appeared!

The image at the top of the page is a picture from a staged locomotive collision performed at the California State Fair on 17 September 1913.  Yes, staged locomotive collisions were a thing in the United States for a few decades.  This planned collision did not result in any injuries or deaths.  The images and associated film recordings are in the public domain. [1]

To avoid potential migraines, nightmares, PTSD or any other negative condition, please feel free to look at this original, problem-free and wonderfully attractive 1904-S Barber half dollar.

[1] California State Fair Highlights by Progressive Film Producing Company of America https://archive.org/details/Californ1913