Hey everyone! I’m relatively new to the world of coin collecting, and I recently stumbled upon the term “crossover coin.” I’ve read that they are typically coins that have received higher grades from multiple grading services, but I want to dive a bit deeper into what makes them special. I mean, I have a few coins that I think could be contenders, but I’m not sure if it’s worth pursuing a crossover grade for them.
From what I gather, the coin’s condition plays a huge role—not just in the value, but in the entire collecting experience. For instance, I’ve got this 1890 Morgan Dollar that I believe is in MS 65 condition according to NGC. I’m curious if sending it to PCGS for a crossover would enhance its appeal and potentially its value. Have any of you experienced this with your own coins? What challenges did you face?
I’m especially interested in hearing about your successes and any tips you might have for us beginners. How do crossover grades affect the market? Are there specific coins that are more sought after as crossovers? Let’s chat about these intriguing pieces of our hobby and share some insights!
Welcome to the hobby, @CoinEnthusiast92! Crossover coins can be somewhat of a hot topic among collectors. To clarify, a crossover coin is a piece that has been graded by one service (like NGC) and is then submitted to another service (like PCGS) for re-evaluation. Grading consistency can vary from company to company, meaning a coin graded as MS 65 by NGC might end up with a different grade at PCGS. This doesn’t always mean it’s worse; sometimes, they agree or even give a higher grade. Why should you care? Because many collectors prefer PCGS grades for certain coins, so having a crossover can enhance both marketability and potentially value.
For your 1890 Morgan Dollar, if you think it has a shot at a higher grade with PCGS, it could be worth the crossover. However, it’s essential to factor in the submission costs and the risks that come with grading evaluations. I suggest researching recent sales of similar coins in crossover grades on sites like PCGS or NGC to gauge market demand.
Let me know if you want to dive deeper into how to evaluate your coins!
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Great insights! I had a similar experience with my coins. I submitted an 1895-O Morgan Dollar that was graded MS 63 by NGC to PCGS, and it came back as MS 64. The difference in potential buyers is pretty significant. I’ve found that crossover coins tend to attract serious collectors who prefer either NGC or PCGS. Market trends show a preference for PCGS across many auctions lately.
Just keep in mind the costs involved! It’s a gamble even if your coin is stunning. Have you thought about getting it appraised first? It might give you a clearer picture.
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Thanks for clearing that up! It’s amazing how the same coin can have different valuations! I don’t have anything worth a crossover just yet but I’m learning a lot here!
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Thanks for the tips, @StackingSilver88! Your story gives me hope that my Morgan Dollar could quality for a higher grade. I haven’t thought about an appraisal yet. How do you typically go about that? Is it worth it?
Great question, @CoinEnthusiast92! Getting a coin appraised can be very beneficial, especially if you’re considering a crossover. Most local coin shops offer appraisal services, or you can use reputable online dealers who might give you feedback for a fee.
- Assess the coin's condition.
- Research recent sales of similar coins.
- Consider any historical significance.
If you’re unsure, try to connect with a certified appraiser (look for ones from organizations like
APMA). Just keep in mind that an appraisal is only an estimate and not a guarantee of value! Hope this helps, and good luck!
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As someone who’s been collecting for decades, I think crossover coins are often misunderstood. Market demand can fluctuate, and while having a coin graded by both services can add appeal, it’s not a surefire way to increase value—sometimes it’s about the coin’s historical importance or rarity. Make sure you analyze your coin’s specific context within the entire collection before making these decisions.
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LOL @OldSchoolCollector! You’re right! It sometimes feels like a coin is just playing the Grading Game. It gets dressed up and goes to the ball only to get judged by two different panels! 
But in all seriousness, your advice is spot on. It’s easy to get caught up in the allure of grades when we should really focus on the stories behind the coins we love.
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Absolutely, @CoinExpert101! If you decide to get your coin appraised, make sure to get multiple opinions if possible. I’ve seen big discrepancies in evaluations between different appraisers. The more information, the better your decisions! Good luck with your 1890 Morgan Dollar!
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I’m just getting into coins as well and this thread is super helpful! I’m always surprised by how many different factors come into play with valuation. I’ll definitely keep an eye on what you all are saying about crossover coins.
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Welcome to the community, @CuriousCoins! It’s great to see new faces here! The complexities of coin valuation can be daunting, but we’re all here to share what we’ve learned over the years. Keep asking questions; the collective knowledge here is invaluable. Are there any specific coins or types you’re interested in?
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