Proof-like 1997 D Lincoln Cent

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Cubeology
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Proof-like 1997 D Lincoln Cent

#1 Unread post by Cubeology »

I've been going through some Lincoln cents and one coin stood out as unusual. Where most zinc Lincoln pennies have textured surfaces this 1997 D Lincoln cent has an unusually glossy finish on both sides that I would describe as proof-like. I'm just curious how common this is and if it is even worth holding onto. I linked a photo of the coin below followed by a normal specimen of the same coin taken with the same camera and lighting for comparison. Any thoughts or opinions are welcome.
1997 D 1.jpg
1997 D 1.jpg

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Re: Proof-like 1997 D Lincoln Cent

#2 Unread post by Iceresistance »

I see a lot of plating blisters on the obverse

And where are the Reverse photos?
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Re: Proof-like 1997 D Lincoln Cent

#3 Unread post by Paul »

Welcome

I see a light fingerprint, & possible staining
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Re: Proof-like 1997 D Lincoln Cent

#4 Unread post by Cubeology »

Here is the reverse
1997 D 2.jpg

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Re: Proof-like 1997 D Lincoln Cent

#5 Unread post by Earle42 »

Are you asking if this is a proof coin? Or are you just saying it looks unusually shiny to you?

The pic do not show the mirror-like surface of a proof coin.
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Re: Proof-like 1997 D Lincoln Cent

#6 Unread post by Cubeology »

I know this is not a proof coin. It just has a finish different than any other business strike zinc cents I've seen. This isn't saying much as I haven't personally sorted through that many of these modern coins. And while it doesn't have the mirror finish or cameo effect of a modern proof, it does have a finish similar to some older proof-like coins such as the Lincolns from the SMS sets. I don't care how it is described, it is merely a coin with an unusually smooth glossy surface, and I'm wondering if is unique enough to be collectible. I don't expect it to be valuable.

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Re: Proof-like 1997 D Lincoln Cent

#7 Unread post by Earle42 »

Thanks for the clarification.

It is always hard for a 2D picture to show the in-hand appearance of a coin's luster.

I do not believe there were any special mint issues from the mint for this year so that door is closed.

Meaning one of two other possibilities I am aware of.

1. When a new (or newly polished) die is inserted into the press and used, the first couple of coins from those dies can have a shinier/more attractive looking appearance. Generally overlooked and no added value.

2. It could possibly be environmental (toning maybe?).
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Re: Proof-like 1997 D Lincoln Cent

#8 Unread post by Northface »

Looks like parts of it have been worked on with a Dremel...Around TRUST and Liberty...

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Re: Proof-like 1997 D Lincoln Cent

#9 Unread post by Daniel »

Denver mint coins are almost always more shiny than Philadelphia mint.

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Re: Proof-like 1997 D Lincoln Cent

#10 Unread post by Cubeology »

The photo makes the coin different from in the hand. There isn't any damage to the coin, but while the field of the coin is very reflective it isn't totally flat so it picks up some odd reflections from different directions.

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Re: Proof-like 1997 D Lincoln Cent

#11 Unread post by Buried_In_Cents »

Realistically, it has no extra value.

My guess is it's either an early strike from a fresh die, or perhaps a coin from a mint uncirculated set. Those sets tend to have generally nice coins in my experience.

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