Is this crystalized ?

[arash p]

Hi Experts

I see some areas on the obverse left edges and on the bust which look like pitted is that crystalized metal? if not what is it and why this coin only has this on some areas around the edge?

Thanks for help

[Joe Sermarini]

You usually cannot see "crystallization," it is usually internal. If the coin is normal weight, assume it is OK. If it feels like aluminum in your hand, it is probably crystallized.   

On the surface what you usually see is corrosion, not crystallization. 

Etched surfaces on archaic silver coins with very high silver content are often described as crystallization. Maybe it is, but I don't think it is same kind that makes a coin fragile. 

If your coin is crystallized, it will crumble when you hit it with a hammer. That was a joke, don't do it.

[stevex6]

Your coin looks fine to me, mark1989

 

 

[arash p]

Thanks Joe, So its corrosion or just flan flaw? How do we know it is flan flaw (was there originally when flan was made) or due to burial happened and corroded? I highlighted the area in question to be more clear.

Thanks for helps

[Joe Sermarini]

When you ask questions on this board, please do not direct them at me unless I am the only one on earth that could possibly answer.  Do not direct them at anyone in particular without very good reason.  Many people could answer your question, not just me. Write your questions so anyone knows they can answer. Please don't assign the task to me.

It is a slight bit of corrosion.

[SC]

I.e.  "Hey Joe, should I hit my coin with a hammer?"

SC

[Joe Sermarini]

Only if it has evil intentions and must be stopped.

[peterpil19]

I think it is people who may have evil intentions, not the coins, but suggest in the interests of safety that we all refrain from using hammers


Dear Arash,

I can tell you from personal experience that you may come across coins with no obvious signs of being embrittled. There is no substitute for careful handling of all coins. I learned this in the worst way possible: https://www.forumancientcoins.com/board/index.php?topic=109809.0

Peter

[stevex6]

Awww man, peterpil19 => that sucks (I hate seeing coins that get damaged, eh?)

I have/had a similar experience with my poor crystalized octopus coin ... wanna see it?

=> below are before & after photos (very sad)

[peterpil19]

Yikes!

The other day I found a silver antoninianus, in a group lot I bought, similarly chipped on the edge.

Peter