1823 Capped Bust Half Dollars : Patched 3

This variety of the 1823 Capped Bust Half Dollar features the "Patched 3" in the date. The broken 3 was repaired with a patch placed in the middle of the "3". This resulted in a blunt punch bump that filled in the center gap on the outside (right side) of the "3" - to connect the two broken parts.

The difference between the normal 3 vs broken 3 vs patched 3 vs ugly 3 vs tampered 3 is depicted below in the example comparison image of all 5 major varieties:

We typically do not remove coins from their holders and resubmit them to the grading services in an attempt to maximize a grade on a coin. (Folks who specialize in this are known as crack out artists.) Recently, however, we had a major crack out session. We acquired a complete 144 coin silver commemorative set graded by ANACS, with nearly all of the coins in old white holders. The set was purchased from a dealer who years ago dealt primarily in ANACS coins back when this grading service enjoyed more popularity.

For a short while we attempted to sell the commems in their ANACS holders as a single set, but it generated little interest. You can see from the mounds of plastic in the pictures below what our next course of action was. Russell from our office bought a drill press vice and went to work on the set. He then wrote all the coins up on several submission forms and sent them off to NGC.

Stay tuned, as we will have an abundance of freshly graded commems available in the near future!

The following was posted by Carol McCarthy, Tom’s sister-in-law from Florida who occasionally works the F.U.N. show with us.

While working for Northeast during the show this past week, I had a great time. F.U.N. moved to Tampa this year to a beautiful location overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.  Hotels, restaurants and parking were easily accessible.  

The show was well attended by both dealers and collectors. It was an extremely busy show for us. Collectors were seeking us out to find a rare piece they needed.  More than once I heard “If anyone is going to have what I need it will be you guys.  You have stuff you just don’t see anywhere else.”  This was great for me (for I only work at the F.U.N. show), because I got introduced to some coins I found fascinating. I held in my hand an Alexander the Great gold coin dated 336-323 BC! Just think of the stories that coin could tell. 

Many people from all over the country and the world attended. We at Northeast were happy to meet some of our longtime customers face to face.  It’s always nice to put a face with a name and a collection. Thank you to all who stopped by!

The organizers of the show did a great job in holding workshops, seminars and exhibits for all to enjoy. Overall, the show was a pleasure and truly lived up to its name…F.U.N!

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Lincoln cents made from 1909 to 1958 were designed by Victor D. Brenner. His initials V.D.B. were on a limited quantity of the 1909 cent making it one of the most sought after 20th century coins.