Possible Snow?

[iampoorman2]

My first post here, but I think I've come to the right place for my question. It looks like this is where the experts hang out.

Anyway, I ran across this cent in my collection, and I think it may be a Snow variety that I ran across in the CPG. I've loaned the book out, so I don't have it handy. The denticles appear to have something going on. Any help identifying would be greatly appreciated.



Thanks.

[Bob P]

Welcome to the forum! That is a great picture you took of that Indian Cent. As far as what's going on in the denticles, I do see what you are referring to. The only one I know with that much going on in the denticles is Snow-8. Snow-5 of the same date has only the top of the 6 visible in the denticles.
If you have the Cherry Pickers Guide, I believe this one is listed as FS#1c-008.23. Hope this helps!

[iampoorman2]

There's a little bit of crud/dirt on the coin, and I was planning on washing with mild handsoap. It's an XF-45 coin, so I don't want to ruin it. Do you have any other suggestions for getting the gunk off of it?

[Bob P]

If you can get ahold of some GOO-GONE, it works wonders for taking gunk off of the coins without affecting the patina of the coin. Just use a cotton swab to dab it on, or let it soak for a while. What ever you do, don't rub or scrub it on, as the gunk may contain gritty substances that will scratch your coin. I have had much luck using a soft old toothbrush and gently brushing away the greasy gunk while it is soaking in a shallow dish or plastic lid. Goo-Gone will not remove carbon spots or rust, but will safely take care of the greases and gunk that builds up over time.

[iampoorman2]

I'm assuming a rinse in water and pat dry after that, correct?

[Bob P]

A rinse & pat dry wouldn't hurt. I have not known goo-gone to leave any residue on the coin anyway. I have been using this method for 4 years with no adverse reaction on any type of metal. A rinse will not be a bad thing though.