Sifting through pocket change and rolling coins may seem tedious, but you never know when a valuable rarity could turn up! By being aware of what makes certain coins valuable, you can increase your chances of spotting buried treasure in everyday coins. Here are some tips on what to look for.
Check the Date and Mint Mark
Start by checking the date on each coin, as older coins tend to be more scarce. For example, any wheat penny minted before 1958 is worth saving, with rare dates like 1909-S VDB Lincoln cents worth over $1,000 in crisp, uncirculated condition. Also, check for a tiny letter mint mark indicating where the coin was produced – coins struck at mints with shorter production runs often have a higher value.
Examine Condition
The physical condition of a coin plays a huge role in its worth. Circulated coins exhibit wear, while uncirculated coins will have crisp, sharp details. Use a magnifying glass to inspect for hairline scratches, light cleaning, or other impairments. The slightest mark can mean the difference between a coin worth face value and one valued in the hundreds. Grading scales like Sheldon or PCGS can help classify preservation.
Review Strike and Details
Carefully study the coin for the sharpness of design details and the quality of the strike. Fully struck coins will have intricate detailing of hair, clothing folds, feathers, etc. Weak strikes show the loss of such elements. Also, look for mistakes like double letters or numbers, misaligned elements, and off-center strikes. These mint errors add novelty and value.
Consider Precious Metal Content
In addition to collectibility, older U.S. coins contain varying amounts of precious metals like gold, silver, and copper. $20 Double Eagles, Morgan silver dollars, and Lincoln wheat pennies contain gold, silver, and copper, far exceeding face value. Calculate melt value using current precious metals prices before spending these coins.
Research Key Rarities
Many well-known rare coins would be instantly recognizable to an experienced collector. The 1909-S VDB and 1931-S Lincoln cents, 1916-D Mercury dime, 1950-D Jefferson nickel, and 1932-D Washington quarter are prime examples. While the odds of finding one are slim, you’ll definitely want to set these aside!
Get Your Coins Appraised
If you suspect you’ve found a valuable coin, get it appraised by a reputable professional. Organizations like the American Numismatic Association have lists of approved appraisers. Many collectable stores and pawn shops, like CV Coins and Collectables, also offer appraisal services. Handle coins carefully to avoid impairing the condition. Never attempt to clean or restore coins, as this damages value.
There are many Best place to buy gold coins in San Diego, but the expertise and reputation of CV Coins and Collectables make us one of the top businesses in the area. Visit our shop in Chula Vista or browse our website to see our broad selection of rare and antique coins. With a knowledgeable numismatist on your side, you can turn up buried treasures in everyday change and build an impressive collection over time. Discover the excitement of this rewarding hobby – you won’t look at coins the same way again!
Start Building Your Collection Today
Ensure you don’t miss out on valuable coins slipping through your grasp. Visit CV Coins and Collectables today for expert coin appraisals. Our experienced team can assist you in recognizing hidden gems, as well as guiding proper storage and preservation techniques to build a valuable collection. With our assistance, you might even unearth genuine buried treasure in your pocket change, transforming it into lifelong heirlooms passed down through generations. Looking to buy gold coins in San Diego? Look no further than CV Coins and Collectables.