An American dollar and a Victorian penny
By 41Combedale
@41CombedaleRoad (5952)
Greece
May 11, 2016 8:23am CST
I have two old coins that have virtually no value at all but which intrigue me every time I hold them in my hand.
The first is a silver dollar dated 1922. It is large and heavy and maybe it really is genuine silver all the way through. It was given to me by a remote 'uncle' when I was a very young girl. I have no idea why he gave it to me and how I have managed to keep it in my possession for so long. As some point it found its home in my needlework basket and maybe it just got hidden safely away there.
When I hold it I find myself wondering how it came to England, what historic events it was witness to and how many pockets concealed it over the years
The other is a humble and rather dilapidated Victorian penny dated 1899. It was almost black when I found it in the garden. I have tried to clean it up a little so that I can see Queen Victoria's face. Gradually the tarnish is being removed with a mix of vinegar and soda. Perhaps one day the copper will shine again once more.
Perhaps this coin knew some of the shadier areas of London or travelled in a horse drawn carriage. How did it end up in my garden and did it fall from one of those lovely beaded purses the ladies made in those far off days.
When I hold them I feel as though I am holding a little bit of history in my hands.
9 people like this
7 responses
@PrarieStyle (2486)
• United States
17 May 16
Uncles and Grandpas gave kids silver dollars and half dollars back in the day. Maybe he gave it to you because he knew it would increase in value.
Or, maybe so you would think of him when you see it?
My grandfather used to give them to me, but of course I walked to the store a block away and spent it on candy right away. I wish now I would have held onto them to give to my grandchildren.
He also owned a bar and would give us all the dimes in the cash register so we could play pinball.
Then when I turned 18, he gave me quarters to play pool.
@JudyEv (340019)
• Rockingham, Australia
16 May 16
Some of these old things would have some wonderful stories to tell.
@JohnRoberts (109846)
• Los Angeles, California
11 May 16
The silver dollar would likely be pure silver. You could probably look up value online.
@marguicha (223020)
• Chile
11 May 16
I have a 1923 silver dollar and have no idea if it is worth something besides its face value. But it serves a dreaming purpose.