Just Buy the CC Coin

Maryelise-
There is nothing wrong with a beer budget, I myself like beer, but that's totally another collecting venue. Any way, I myself have several "Genuine" or "Details" graded coins that because of a minor little imperfection, the grading service won't designate a specific grade. I have a number of very low mintage coins that normally would be priced right out of my league, but due to a little scratch or two, an old cleaning, possible a small rim ding, something that gives it a "Details" or "Genuine" grade, but will be discounted accordingly to a price level that we beer budgets can handle. Of course one wants to obtain the best looking coin that one can afford, but times are that one must make concessions to match one's budget.
Your coins look great, they have great detail and are very attractive. The marks on them are not so bold that they take the attention away from the look of the coins. I think you idea of a "Details" C.C. type set is a terrific and unique idea. Go with it. Of course try to get coins with the best looks and stay away from coins with "initials" or names scratched on them, but I think your're on a good start. You have gotten your feet in the collecting waters, don't worry about taking the plung, you will come out feeling refreshed. Go forth.
-R.-

Randysc, let's here it for beer! Which I also enjoy now and then but, as you said, that's another story.

For my set I've decided on:

Eight grades, which may include just details; e.g., my '78-CC Morgan AU Details.

And 10 CC dates, taking The Drummer's recommendations to heart, of course.

I think I can do this. Then I can grow up as a collector from there.

Mary Elise

Excellent decision! Keep us posted as to your progress and if you ever have any questions or need advice, well.... I think you know where to go.
Good luck and enjoy.
-R.-

Hi Maryelise

Now yer talkin! Your plan sounds great. You are just starting out on a wonderful journey...one that will profoundly change your life for the better!

the drummer

OK, question. How would you grade a coin with a hole in it? Worthless...or slightly above? Maybe grade isn't the right word...perhaps consider. I'm willing to consider a lot of things for The Details Collection, but I'm not really feeling great about the coins with holes. Although someone may have worn them as pendants...I don't know the history. Thoughts?

Hi Maryelise

It is of course best to ask these type of questions than to hold back and then be sorry later...

There is a huge difference between coins that show just good old fashioned wear and tear from high usage...or even rare antique coins that have been slightly cleaned or have some unusual scratches...BUT...I personally would never buy any coin that has been severely altered or what are referred to as "problem" coins. here are some examples of "problem" coins:
- Graffiti (carved names or initials - "potty" coins not included in this list)
- Holes or Bezel marks from jewelry use
- Heavily cleaned and/or "whizzed" (heavy brush cleaning)
- severely bent
- Tooled (impairments "doctored" to fix or hide big problems
- and of course counterfeit coins (unless used for demo purposes)

The only exceptions would be if the coin(s) were truly ultra-rare where 5 to 10 examples (or less) were known or something extraordinary along those lines.

I believe there are enough "Details" graded coins at the right prices that don't have these mentioned problems to even consider purchasing "problem" coins.

"Problem" coins tend to not hold value and can be extremely difficult to re-sell. Even if one were not ever considering resale, collectible coins (like real estate or any such investment) should always take into consideration that value point.

All this is just my humble opinion and meant as encouragement. As a passionate collector though I'll wager that most collectors feel as I do...maybe we'll hear some other opinions from our club members.

You are definitely off to a great start Maryelise

the drummer