Received yesterday. The blade looks really old. It is thin at about .117" (3.02 mm). So I just gave it a light polish and a light etch with 3:1 ferric chloride. This is usually a pretty light etch, but the edges turned very dark immediately. Must be a fairly high carbon steel. I don't like such a contrast, but it is what it is. No real pattern evident, just the higher carbon laminated edges. The coin is dated 18X8, so it's either 1888, or 1898. This one cent bronze coin was made from 1882 to 1907. Overall I'm pleased with the purchase! Thank you all for your comments and interest.
Steve
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