| Description |
Republican Sinn Fein. Another name for the IRA's political organization. Coin darkly stained with two small corrosion spots showing on the reverse from an unknown source. This coin and two others in my holdings (ONH 2008 English 10p / RNU 2007 English 10p) bought from the same seller in 2015 have very similar dark stained surfaces. The stains appear to be caused by inadvertent contact with some environmental agent, a chemical perhaps. This sameness of look suggests all three were exposed to similar conditions and were acquired from a like source by the seller. Interestingly, another coin bought from a different seller (IN / LA 1997 Eire 10p) shows the same characteristics, and could have the same origins. Please note that both sellers are from Belfast.I don't believe it's an attempt by a coin doctor at artificial toning. This is often done in an effort to improve appearances and thus value. These coins are not at all attractive and are substantially degraded by the dark staining. Purchased from Andrew Townsend / Belfast, Co. Antrim, N. Ireland. (Sp. 20, 2015) ($4). |
