Vanishing 3"

MaryJF · Advanced Member

I recently saw a few Lincoln's on Ebay called "Vanishing 3" on proof sets. I can't seem to find any other information on this. Just what IS a so-called vanishing 3, how many are estimated to be out there, what do they look like.. etc, etc? If anybody knows, I'm sure this is the place to go. Thanks

Bob P · Site Admin

Hi Mary...
The 'vanishing 3' you are referring to is nothing more than an attempt to scam money from folks. It seems that certain 2003 coins, when viewed from different and varying angles, seems to make the 3 on the date disappear. If you turn any coin to a certain angle, you can make elements of it disappear. This particular one holds true for the 2003 silver proof set. I have heard, but do not know for sure if this can also be found on regular proof strikes. Frankly, this is nothing but hogwash. The 3 was lightly struck on a lot of these coins, or the hub used to make the dies had a partially filled number. There is no premium associated with these coins (or at least there shouldn't be). This one ranks right up there with the 'speared buffalo, feather in the hat, or bald bison' coins which show nothing more that common die cracks, gouges or wear. Folks assume these are major mint errors, but they are nothing of the sort. It is mainly a scam perpetrated by someone more than willing to remove you from your money with worthless descriptions of common coins. Please save your money if you are wanting to buy one of these.

wavysteps2003 · Expert Member

Would you believe that I am trying to find a 2003 Proof with a solid 3?????. Seems that everyone that I have has that vanishing 3.

I do like some errors, however, this latest craze with everything, .............. I am not going to get into to it and spend the rest of the night typing all the stupid names, leaves me cold

With the amount of forgeries, mis-labeled "errors", new undiscovered double dies (yes, purposely mis-phrased) and other assorted junk, E-bay is loosing customers fast in the coin world.

You all have a great and safe 4 of July.

WAVYSTEPS2003

MaryJF · Advanced Member

Thanks to both of you, Bob and Wavy for answering that question. As for my intending to purchase one of these.. NOPE. The thought never crossed my mind. I just happened to find one and wondered what the heck it was. I'm sure I must have at least 40-50 of them. And now you tell me they're not worth anything. (just kidding, of course). You guys are the best. Thanks

NWDave · New Member

I have been looking at 2003 proof cents and sets for the last couple of years. I have not seen a 2003 proof cent that does not have the so called "vanishing 3" effect. Good luck finding one with a solid frosty 3.