1893 Columbian Exposition, ring, hunting coin, destroyed my first coin and ID?

[Bev]

Went out yesterday and found a pretty cool spot with a friend of mine. She prefers finding coins to relics and I like relics just as much as coins so we're a good pair!

I found a Columbian Exposition 1893 souvenir (aka Chicago World's Fair) but missing the top piece. Here is a link to one:
1893 Chicago Columbian Exposition Worlds Fair Souvenir Medal or Badge



Found a large cent that was dated possibly 1808 which was visible in the field, but when I rinsed it under water, the whole front of the coin just flaked away.
Also shown is a nice button (pewter?) a North American Hunting Club coin with an eagle on it. and an old ring with seems to be a floral design on it. (copper?)



Aside from a spoon, some horse tack rings and a few other old things, I found this strange piece of metal with only the words, "MODEL-C" on it. The bottom looks like it could have been a small hinge. I'd like a little help IDing if someone can. I'd appreciate it.



I chose to dig only solid sounding targets yesterday because of time, but there was plenty of chatter throughout the whole field so I'm looking forward to going back next week!

 

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[Rick (Nova Scotia)]

The badge is a neat relic.
The tombac button is OLD.
Unfortunately that is how 50 to 60 percent of coppers come out of the ground. Hindsight is a wonderful thing, sometimes it is best just to leave them alone just a rub with your thumb. You can usually judge the amount of corrosion by how square or rounded the edge of the coin is. That said, if it was that far gone you didn't loose that much.

With the age of your targets I'd go back again too.

 

[tngirl]

Bev, those are some really interesting finds. Can't wait to see what you get next time!

 

[Bev]

Thanks you guys!
Rick, that is a great observation with the copper. I'll remember to pay close attention to the edges of the next one and leave it alone if it looks a little shaky. As soon as the water hit it, it flaked off in my hand. I didnt feel overly terrible because it wasnt like I messed with it for hours trying different techniques.
It's a tombac button? I'll have to look those up- thank you!

 

[steelheadwill]

Very nice finds and story!
Few old coppers 'Clean' well...
detail sits on top of the metal in the corroded layer.
The edge condition advice is great.
Tombacs are usually pre 1800, it's amazing how well the metal holds up,
sometimes they are nicely decorated with engraving.
That model C item looks strangely familiar, not sure if I've dug similar or what
thanks for sharing! HH to ya!

 

[Bev]

If I knew you were watching I wouldve posted the old spoons too, maybe I'll find them for you, I know you love those!

 

[CRUSADER]

Thanks you guys!
Rick, that is a great observation with the copper. I'll remember to pay close attention to the edges of the next one and leave it alone if it looks a little shaky. As soon as the water hit it, it flaked off in my hand. I didnt feel overly terrible because it wasnt like I messed with it for hours trying different techniques.
It's a tombac button? I'll have to look those up- thank you!

yes tombac, circa 1780-1820.

 

[Bev]

NICE! I'm very happy! Gives a good indication to what else could be there!

 

[kuger]

Hard lesson Bev,my first L.C. ....... did the same thing and totally ruined it,if I would have left it alone it would have been fine.....never did that again!!

 

[Joe88]

Very nice finds, Bev. Sorry about the LC.
Hope you find much more there!!!
Good Luck.

 

[koids45]

I dug one of those "Model C" thingy's today and it is the main part to a edison phonograph. this model was made in 1907. some have sold on ebay for $90 +

 

[matt092079]

Yep, never rinse with water!