Can Went to the Long Beach Show Wednesday Be Made Into Jewelry? A Crafter’s Guide

Introduction: The Art of Coin Jewelry Making

Not every coin is suitable for crafting. Let me walk you through the metal composition and durability of this piece for jewelry making, specifically examining whether it can be transformed into a beautiful ring or pendant.

Metal Composition Analysis

When evaluating a coin for jewelry making, the first consideration is its metal content. Based on the discussion from the Long Beach Show, we need to examine the silver content and overall durability of the coins mentioned.

90% Silver Coins

Several dealers at the show were buying pre-1965 silver, which typically contains 90% silver and 10% copper. This composition makes these coins excellent candidates for jewelry making. The high silver content provides:

• Excellent malleability for shaping
• Beautiful luster when polished
• Durable enough for everyday wear
• Rich, warm color that develops a lovely patina

Copper and Bronze Options

The show also featured Large Cents, which are made of pure copper. These coins offer:

• Distinct reddish color that ages beautifully
• Excellent workability for ring making
• Historical significance that adds value
• Affordability compared to silver options

Design Details and Aesthetic Appeal

The visual elements of a coin play a crucial role in determining its suitability for jewelry. Let me examine the design aspects mentioned at the show.

Large Cent Designs

The Large Cents available at Pierre Fricke’s table, priced between $10-25, feature classic American designs. These include:

• Liberty head designs with flowing hair
• Classic wreath reverses
• Clear date and mint mark details
• Well-preserved details even in circulated conditions

Modern Coin Options

For those interested in more contemporary pieces, the show featured:

• Morgan and Walker silver dollars in MS65 condition
• Indian Head Cents in various conditions
• Modern commemorative issues

Hardness and Durability Considerations

Different metals require different approaches when crafting jewelry. Here’s what I consider when working with coins from the show:

Silver Hardness

90% silver coins have a hardness of approximately 2.5-3 on the Mohs scale, making them:

• Easy to shape and form
• Suitable for detailed ring designs
• Prone to scratches, requiring protective finishes
• Ideal for both men’s and women’s jewelry

Copper Durability

Large Cents, being pure copper, offer:

• Good workability for intricate designs
• Natural antimicrobial properties
• Development of a unique patina over time
• Excellent for statement pieces

Best Coin Choices for Jewelry Making

Based on the show inventory, here are my top recommendations for coin jewelry:

Top Silver Options

1. Pre-1965 90% silver coins

• Walking Liberty half dollars
• Franklin half dollars
• Washington quarters

Best Copper Choices

2. Large Cents (1793-1857)

• Classic Head design
• Coronet Head varieties
• Braided Hair types

Crafting Considerations

When working with coins from the Long Beach Show, consider these factors:

Ring Sizing

Most coins can be sized to fit standard ring sizes, but consider:

• Silver coins: Can be stretched or compressed
• Copper coins: More challenging to resize
• Historical value: Some collectors prefer to preserve original condition

Finishing Techniques

Different metals require different finishing approaches:

• Silver: Can be polished to high shine or given an antiqued finish
• Copper: Often left with natural patina or sealed to preserve color
• Both: Can be combined with other metals for contrast

Market Value and Investment Potential

The coins available at the show offer various price points for jewelry making:

Budget-Friendly Options

Large Cents in the $10-25 range provide:

• Affordable entry into coin jewelry
• Historical significance
• Unique designs not found in modern coins

Premium Choices

Higher-grade silver coins offer:

• Greater intrinsic value
• Better preservation of detail
• Potential for appreciation

Conclusion: Crafting with Show Coins

The Long Beach Show offers excellent opportunities for coin jewelry makers. The combination of 90% silver coins and historical copper pieces provides options for every skill level and budget. When selecting coins for jewelry, consider the metal composition, design details, and your crafting capabilities. Remember that while some collectors prefer coins in their original state, many appreciate the artistry of well-crafted coin jewelry that preserves and showcases these historical pieces.

Whether you’re a seasoned artisan or just starting your journey in coin jewelry making, the coins from this show offer endless possibilities for creating unique, meaningful pieces that combine history, artistry, and personal style.

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