[Utilizer]

If the coin were to disappear at this point, the government would probably sue Mr. Lawrence for the appraised value under a theory of conversion. It was in his possession and now it isn’t.

Big deal. Let them prove the worth of something not there. Worse comes to worse, I would just manufacture a new "penny" from a mold and pour molten aluminum into it to create one and let them find it on one of their searches. I once made a giant aluminum "nickel" about nine inches in diameter as a project many years ago. It is not difficult.

[P-Marlowe]

Unfortunately Mr. Lawrence has documented the coin and had it photographed. If he doesn’t produce that coin then he can be held liable for conversion and he will have to pay the government $250,000. If it is determined that he acted deliberately he could be held liable for up to $750,000.

My guess is that if he had donated to Obama, he would not be facing this nightmare. Obama is determined to reward his friends and punish his enemies.