Counterstamped Lincoln Cents
Counterstamped coins, also known as countermarked or punchmarked coins.
During the 1800's, it was popular for merchants to stamp coins for advertising purposes. Large cents were the coin of choice for advertising. The merchants would place thier stamp on a cent and put it back into circulation. It got thier name out to the public without a real cost involved. Some merchants would stamp thousands of coins. The most popular counterstamps were for medicine or doctors. The early counterstamps are sought by collectors, but the more modern versions are more a a novelty that carry little to no premium.
James R. Wright was a silversmith in Lexington, Virginia from 1847 to 1856. Below is one of his advertising counterstamps.
Photo By Heritage Auctions
Counterstamped 1857 Flying Eagle cent
Photo By Heritage Auctions
1873 Counterstamp Indian Head Cent
Photo By Heritage Auctions
Some early counterstamped cents like the examples above, can sell for $100.00 or more.
There are many examples of counterstamped cents circulating. Some will have letters or numbers punched into them, or a club logo, etc. Many collectors will consider this a type of damage that takes away from the value of a coin.
Photo By LincolnCentsOnline
Sometimes referred to as the "Kissing Presidents Penny". This was made by punching an impression of Kennedy's head next to the bust of Lincoln. These are sold as novelty items.
Photo By LincolnCentsOnline
MASONIC SYMBOL Square & Compass
Photo By Denver
Photo By Denver
1980 Counterstamped Cent
Photo By Amanda Smith
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