Hey fellow collectors! I’ve been diving deeper into the world of reverse proof coins lately, and I’m excited yet a bit overwhelmed by the choices out there. Recently, I picked up a 2021-W silver eagle reverse proof that just sings in its NGC 70 grade. However, I was a bit anxious about where to buy it. Some dealers really cater to their customers while others leave you feeling, well, a little shortchanged.
I’ve been doing some research, browsing through forums and auction sites, but I’d love to hear your personal experiences. Have you found any trustworthy dealers who specialize in reverse proofs? Or are there certain venues or shows you’d recommend? I’m especially curious about online sites versus local shops.
Beyond just finding a reliable dealer, I’d also love your thoughts on navigating the condition aspect. Any tips for spotting quality in reverse proofs, especially when they’re not in hand? Looking forward to hearing your stories and insights!
So, what are your go-to places for purchasing reverse proof coins? Any horror stories to steer clear of?
Great topic, CoinHunter89! I’ve collected reverse proof coins for a few years now and can say that my best experiences have been from reputable online dealers. I typically shop at sites like PCGS and NGC. They often have a wide selection of graded coins, which helps avoid the anxiety of buying ungraded pieces. One thing to be cautious of is the lighting in photos. I always check for glare or reflections that might hide defects. Keep an eye out for coins graded at PR70, as these are usually flawless. Have you had any specific dealers in mind, or are you looking for recommendations?
Also, what was the most memorable reverse proof you’ve seen? Looking forward to hearing from others here!
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Thanks for the advice, @SilverSeeker91! I’ve mainly been looking at auction sites, but I think I’ll check out the links you provided as well. Trust is definitely key in this hobby. Have you ever had any bad experiences with online dealers?
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Just wanted to chime in! I completely agree with what @SilverSeeker91 mentioned about online dealers. I found that… sometimes you can score great deals at local shows, too. Just this past summer, I picked up a beautiful reverse proof 2019 buffalo nickel at a local coin show. The dealer had a solid reputation and was very transparent about the coin’s condition (it was graded at PR69). I think having an eye for minuscule flaws is a key skill when it comes to collecting these coins, especially when you can’t hold them in your hand. Always ask for a return policy just in case! I would also recommend looking up coins’ prices on US Mint for current market values. Anyone else have experiences with shows?
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When it comes to online purchases, I like to stick to established retailers like APMEX or JMBullion. I’ve bought several reverse proof coins from them, and they always deliver quality products. However, I did have a mishap once where the coin was misrepresented in the listing – graded as a PR70 when it was, in fact, a PR68. After reaching out to customer service, they issued a refund immediately, which was a relief! Always check the return policy before buying. What’s your view on coins bought from auction sites? Any good or bad experiences?
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Haha, @CoinCollector101, I had a similar experience! Negligent listing got me a coin that looked fantastic in the picture but was full of scratches. I spent weeks hunting for a good reverse proof to find what I thought was the one, only to be let down. Lesson learned! Always make sure to research the dealer’s feedback ratings before clicking ‘Buy.’ Any recommendations on things to watch out for? Maybe some tricks for analyzing pictures?
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Wow, @GiggleNumismatist, that sounds frustrating! Thank you for sharing your story—definitely a valuable lesson for all of us in the community. I think using magnifying glasses or even mobile apps to analyze images more closely could help. If anyone has specific tips on what features of a reverse proof coin to look for, it would be much appreciated! Also, any opinions on coin grading services? Do you think they matter for resale value?
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Grading services are crucial! They provide a level of credibility that is often necessary in the market. I tend to stick with both NGC and PCGS because they maintain high standards. For resale, a higher grade like PR70 can significantly boost the coin’s value. But it’s also about demand; some series are hotter than others. I suggest keeping an eye on market trends and auction results. @CoinHunter89, have you decided on a particular series or year for your reverse proof collection?
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Hey everyone, I’ve been collecting coins for over 30 years and reverse proofs have come a long way. Check out NGC, they recently posted a fantastic article on the history of reverse proofs! It’s interesting how specific years have different market demands. Pricing can vary widely from year to year depending on how many were produced and the condition. My advice for buyers—always compare prices across multiple platforms before purchasing. This can save you a lot!
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Thanks for the resources, @TheOldCoinGuy! I will check out that article on NGC. Your experience shines through! The specifics on production really help—such a vital factor that I never fully considered until now. What are your thoughts on how limited mintage affects the values? Should we target low mintage for potential resale?
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Absolutely! Limited mintage can definitely drive up value over time. Coins with lower mintages are often seen as more desirable, especially among collectors looking for rarity. Research is key here; check past auction results and how similar coins have performed. It’s fascinating how trends shift over time, so stay informed. What kind of mintage figures do you think are ideal for an investment piece?
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