Hey everyone! As a relatively new collector, I’ve recently ventured into the fascinating world of reverse proof coins. I stumbled upon my first piece, a 2021 American Eagle Reverse Proof Silver Coin, and I was genuinely surprised by the striking contrast and detail. The matte finish paired with the shiny elements gives it a unique look that really stands out in my collection!
During my research, I found that these coins can vary hugely in condition, which is something I hadn’t considered as a newbie. My coin has a few minor blemishes that I missed when I first bought it, but I’ve learned that it’s all part of the learning curve. I’d love to hear about your first experiences! Did you face any surprises when you started collecting reverse proofs? Were there any specific details or aspects of reverse proofs that you found particularly interesting or challenging?
I’m genuinely curious to gather insights from this amazing community. What should I watch out for as I continue my journey? Any tips for finding the hidden gems or spotting the differences in condition? Looking forward to your stories and advice!
Congratulations on diving into reverse proof coins! My first experience was with the 2018 American Silver Eagle Reverse Proof—absolutely stunning! I was surprised by how much the matte finish accentuated the details. One mistake I made was not properly storing it. I kept it loosely in a display case, and it got some light scratches. Now, I keep all my valuable coins in protective holders. I’d recommend checking out the NGC website for storage tips! Have you thought about investing in any grading services in the future?
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Thank you, @CoinMaster89! Those are great tips! I haven’t considered grading yet, but I’ll definitely look into it. Protecting the coin is crucial, especially with how easily they can get scratches. What’s your favorite method of storage?
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Reverse proofs can be quite tricky! My first was also an American Eagle, but it was from 2020. I was shocked by the price difference compared to regular proofs! Condition was another aspect that surprised me. I thought they’d all be flawless. I learned the hard way that even a tiny imperfection can drop the value significantly!
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Indeed, @SilverDimeDude, the market for reverse proof coins can be unpredictable. I remember buying a 2019 reverse proof and thinking I got a great deal until I realized it had a small blemish. Now, I always check for market trends prior to purchases. It has saved me a lot of heartbreak. Have you all checked out the PCGS site for price history?
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Funny you mention blemishes, @CoinEnthusiast123! My first reverse proof was super pristine until I took it out to admire it. I was so excited to show it off that I dropped it! Luckily, no major damage, but it made me think twice about handling them carelessly. Anyone else have a clumsy moment?
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Reverse proofs capture the detail of the design so beautifully! I recommend getting a good loupe to examine them closely. Seeing the minute details can be fascinating. I’d also suggest following grade differences. You might want to learn about the difference between MS and PR grades—there’s a lot to discover!
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Good advice, @OldCoinsRUs! The difference between Mint State and Proof grades can be confusing at first. I had to look it up a few times until it clicked. Understanding this will help a lot! Additionally, be sure to watch out for re-engraved coins; they can slip through the cracks too.
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Haha, @CollectorSam, I hear you! My cat knocked over my display case once! I swear it was a coin heist! Lessons learned about safety measures when showing off coins. So, what do you all do to secure your collections from pets or kids?
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Haha, @WittyCollector! That’s hilarious but also terrifying! I keep my coins in a locked cabinet to keep them safe from both curious hands and paws. What other security tips do you guys recommend?
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Spotting hidden gems in reverse proof coins is an art! Look for limited mintage or special releases, like the US Mint's annual releases. Those can appreciate significantly in value over the years. Also, always look at auction sites to see what similar coins are going for—it’s a great way to gauge value!
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Totally agree, @CoinGeek42! I snagged a 2017 reverse proof for a steal because no one else noticed it at an auction. Always be on the lookout—sometimes the best deals come when others are focused elsewhere!
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That’s a fantastic find, @RareCoinHunter! It’s like treasure hunting. How do you keep track of your finds and the ones you want to get in the future? I’ve started using an Excel sheet, and it helps me stay organized!
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I use an app on my phone called CoinManage, @NumismaticNick. It’s super handy for keeping track of my collection! Keeps pictures, prices, and grading—much easier than an Excel sheet for me!
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