Patinated coppers

[damian1986 142]

In the last couple of DNW auctions quite a few coppers have cropped up described as 'patinated' or 'with patina' or something to that effect. Unusual choice of words except to suggest that the coins have been lacquered (coins with a natural patina are usually described as toned)? Nothing wrong with the coins, and it could just be the pictures and my untrained eye just wondering what you think?

September auction: http://www.dnw.co.uk/auction-archive/catalogue-archive/lot.php?department=Coins&lot_id=164910

Lacquered?: http://www.dnw.co.uk/auctions/catalogue/lot.php?auction_id=318&lot_id=1026

[Rob 3,152]

I don't think the use of the word patinated is anything to worry about, but the bottom one looks as if it was previously lacquered and someone has tried to dissolve it away.

Edited November 11, 2014 by Rob

[Peckris 579]

I can't find any reference to 'patina' in the second description? In any case, patination is little more than a fancy name for toning applied to copper and bronze. It's slightly different though, in that patination can cause a complete re-colouration of the coin which is less usual with silver.

[damian1986 142]

Cheers both. Yes the second coin had no mention of patina but I figured it looked lacquered so included it as was curious. Mainly the last auction a few mentioned patina but probably not relevant.

I don't know what peoples' thoughts are on lacquering in general (I assume it's not looked on with any fondness!); I think it's a shame as otherwise that's a very nice pattern.

[Rob 3,152]

Cheers both. Yes the second coin had no mention of patina but I figured it looked lacquered so included it as was curious. Mainly the last auction a few mentioned patina but probably not relevant.

I don't know what peoples' thoughts are on lacquering in general (I assume it's not looked on with any fondness!); I think it's a shame as otherwise that's a very nice pattern.

I need a P1237 or P1238 too, but that one doesn't make it with the deposits seen. Many a coin has been ruined by lacquering and subsequent attempts at removal.

[Coinery 1,157]

I can't stand the even sheen of a lacquered coin!