1979 Kennedy Half doesnt sound like the rest... Different composition?

[koala33]

1979 Kennedy Half doesn't sound like the rest... Different composition?

When I search halves I run them through my fingers and listen...

This is a 1979 Kennedy half that has a higher pitch than regular halves, but not quite the sound of silver coins..

No mint mark (no 79's had a mint mark), no proof coin.. Just a plain 79.

Any ideas?

 

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[midntmn]

A few days ago I found an identical 1979 no mint mark. I also listen to each of my coins and this one had a noticeably different ping - somewhere between a clad and a 40%. it is in good condition and has a slightly dull luster. I put it aside because I wasn't sure what it was - then I saw your post. I am guessing the metal composition is off. Maybe we have found a new type!

 

[SilverSharpie]

I have a 1995 half dollar that sounds different as well. It looks just like the rest, but weighs 11.09g. I have a few coins that are severely underweight, and some that are overweight. It's probably just an out of spec coin.

 

[koala33]

I have a 1995 half dollar that sounds different as well. It looks just like the rest, but weighs 11.09g. I have a few coins that are severely underweight, and some that are overweight. It's probably just an out of spec coin.

You are probably right..

 

[frankendime]

Whats the edge look like?

 

[Captaindoodle]

If you want to get to the bottom of things:

1. Weigh it on a digital scale...see how close to spec it is...if it's way off, maybe something different in the planchet (only real value) or a magicians coin or some other post mint modification.
2. Check the axis of rotation...see if it's 180 degrees or not when you flip it. If it's off here, get a loupe or microscope, and check for a seam to see if it's a magicians coin or some other mod.
3. Unless it's an incorrect planchet (extremely rare), I tend to go medevial on the coin to get to the bottom of things.

Good luck in your investigation!
CD

 

[waseeker]

Another possibility is that you have found a magicians coin. Check just inside the rim on the obvers and reverse and see if you can see a seam.