Purney,
My guess is that the coil is fine but the test procedure isn't. If you are determined to prove the coil before getting into the distributor itself, you can use the - wire as the 'faux points'. With the key on you should be able to make the coil fire by alternately touching this - wire to ground and then removing it. Remember, don't ground the high tension coil wire, hold it a little off ground so the spark has a chance to build up and make the leap of faith...or, just hold on to that wire with your hand.
Stuart
