mmm... 1095...

Thanks, I went back to the beach and now have about 8 pounds of the stuff.  During low tide, the clay deposits were exposed and I found one that was full of coal.  I wonder if that means that it formed there or it just got deposited there by a shipwreck.  Going by your information, it was probably deposited there by a shipwreck.  I will wash the coal according to your instructions and burn it at the next chance I get. That probably won't be for a while because it is difficult to work outside at a JABOD forge in 90 degree heat and I will be going away to Russia for the next few weeks. I appreciate your reply and found it helpful.

Does anyone have any experience with coal gathered from the beach?  I heard something about it having a high salt content and I don't know how/if it would affect my projects. (usually some kind of blade)  In case it matters it is gathered in Stamford , CT. and looks to be of anthracite or higher bituminous grade and pea size.