How does professional numismatic conservation differ from restoration and “Coin Doctoring”?
Numismatic conservation involves examination, scientific analysis and reliance upon an extensive base of numismatic knowledge to determine the nature of a coin s state of preservation and the extent of any damage. Conservation also encompasses appropriate procedures to protect the coin s original appearance and to guard against future deterioration to whatever extent possible. Professional conservation should not be confused with “Coin Doctoring,” in which an attempt is made to improve the appearance and grade of a coin through deceptive means, such as artificial toning, and where unaccepted or unorthodox methods are employed. Also not qualifying as conservation is restoration where mechanical repairs are made, such as filling holes, smoothing out scratches and re-engraving of detail.
