[VetteVet]

You can check the coil by simply taking the distributor cap off and holding the high tension wire from the coil near a good ground on the engine. Then with the key on you just open the points manually with a non conductive item like a popsicle stick, You should get a spark from the coil wire to the ground. You have to be sure the points are off the lobe and closed or the coil will not charge. Make sure you have them gapped correctly and set the dwell at 35.
Have a look at this website and it may help too.

http://abbysenior.com/mechanics/ignition.htm