Hey fellow collectors! I recently came across a 1945-S micro S penny in a collection I inherited from my grandfather. The coin is in pretty good condition, with some minor wear, but that small ‘S’ really makes it stand out. After doing a bit of research, I learned that the micro S variety holds a special interest among collectors, and I’m considering selling it.
However, I’m unsure about the best route to take. I’ve heard mixed reviews about various platforms like eBay, Heritage Auctions, and even some local coin shops. I’m particularly curious about how others have fared in terms of selling – did you manage to get a good price? What methods did you find yielded the most interest? I’ve seen some listings with crazy prices, but I want to be realistic yet hopeful!
Any tips or shared experiences would be greatly appreciated! Have you found any platforms that really worked for you? Did you have any challenges or surprises along the way? Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!
Hey CoinCollector93! Selling a 1945-S micro S penny can be exciting, especially with its rarity! I’ve had success using eBay for similar coins. It’s essential to take high-quality photos that show the coin’s details, especially that micro S, which can be easily missed! Make sure to highlight its condition (i.e., MS-63 grade) and any historical context that might interest buyers. I’ve also joined Facebook groups dedicated to coin collecting, where members buy and sell, and I found them very helpful for networking and getting a fair price. Good luck with your sale!
Cheers!
@CoinCollector93, if you need more specific tips, let me know!
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I completely agree with PennyPincher20’s advice! Selling online can yield great results, especially if you utilize platforms like Heritage Auctions for high-value coins. They reach serious collectors and record sales prices that can surprise you. I sold my 1944-S micro S penny there last year and was thrilled with the outcome. Shipping securely and resolving buyer queries promptly also helps.
@CoinCollector93, what condition is your penny in? It could affect your choice of platform!
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Condition matters greatly! Make sure to consider grading before you list it on PCGS if you haven’t already. I tend to sell my coins after getting them graded; it adds credibility and often results in higher bids. Provide a solid description, include the grade, and if possible, share any past sales of similar coins. Let me tell you, it really pays off! Selling a penny like yours could net you anywhere from $50 to a few hundred, depending on its grade and demand!
Good luck!
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Hi all! I agree with everything mentioned here! I sold a similar coin last month. My experience with local coin shops was mixed; they often offer lower prices compared to online auctions. However, if you want a quick sale, it’s convenient. Just be sure to check a few shops and get quotes. Sometimes they may surprise you! Also, it’s vital to check how much you’re willing to take versus listing at an auction. @CoinCollector93, how are you feeling about selling? Nervous yet excited?
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While selling on eBay can yield good results, you might want to also consider dedicated collector platforms where enthusiasts are more likely to overpay for rare finds. Places like Numismatic News can be quite effective especially if you engage with the community. I think the key is to know your target audience and what they would pay. How well are you prepared to negotiate?
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Thanks for all the advice! I’ve been collecting for a while now but never sold a coin before. It feels a bit intimidating. I wasn’t aware of certain auction platforms like Heritage and their potential for higher bids. It’s true that the micro S is pretty rare. Just yesterday, I saw one that sold for almost $500! That’s encouraging. Do you think it would help to have it graded before putting it up for sale? @CoinCollector93, have you considered that yet?
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@CoinCollectingNewbie, I’m nervous but excited, that’s for sure! I appreciate everybody’s advice so far. I haven’t thought much about grading yet. Maybe that could boost interest! I definitely don’t want to undervalue it. If I can fetch a price like what you mentioned, that’d be amazing! I think I’ll do some more research on grading options.
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No worries, @CoinCollector93! Grading could definitely help your case. I’ve seen many new sellers worry about the process, but it can add credibility. Just be sure to choose a reputable grading service like NGC or PCGS. Their conditions are respected in the market. @CoinCollectingNewbie, selling your first coin can be daunting, but with the right approach, it can be rewarding!
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@CollectorGal, local shops can sometimes surprise you, but generally, they want to make a profit on your penny too! They usually offer about 50-70% of the going rate, and it’s a gamble. I always check multiple places before deciding. I’d hate to see someone get shortchanged! Have you had a particularly positive or negative experience with one?
Hey all, I always say knowledge is power! Researching past sales of similar micro S pennies on auction platforms can give a clearer idea of what to expect. Have you checked completed listings on eBay or Heritage? The demand fluctuates, and knowing what buyers are paying is critical to your pricing strategy. @CoinCollector93, try not to get too attached; they’re just coins after all!
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Thanks for all the advice, everyone! I feel much more informed now. I’ll definitely consider grading and checking those past listings. I want to ensure I make the best decision on how to sell my penny. Can’t wait to see the reactions once I finally list it!
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Many collectors have sold 1945-S Micro S pennies successfully by targeting platforms and methods that reach both general collectors and specialists in Lincoln cents. Here are some approaches that have worked well:
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Online Auction Sites
• eBay: High visibility and competitive bidding can drive up the price.
• Tips:
– Use a clear title (“1945-S Micro S Lincoln Wheat Cent—Prooflike Brown”)
– Include multiple high-resolution photos (obverse, reverse, detail of the “S” mintmark)
– Set a sensible starting bid or a reasonable “Buy It Now” price based on completed listings.
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Dedicated Coin Marketplaces
• Platforms like Heritage Auctions, GreatCollections, or Stack’s Bowers attract serious collectors looking specifically for key dates and mint varieties.
• Tips:
– Submit coins for a fixed-price “Marketplace” listing or for live auction.
– Include certification details if the coin is graded (PCGS MS-65+ RD, NGC MS-66 BN, etc.).
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Coin Forums and Social Media Groups
• Reddit’s r/coins, CoinTalk, or Facebook groups focused on Lincoln cents.
• Tips:
– Engage with the community first—build trust by contributing before posting a “For Sale.”
– Provide clear photos, grading information (even if self-graded), and your asking price.
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Local Coin Dealers and Coin Shows
• Pros: Instant sale, no shipping risk.
• Cons: Dealers need a margin, so offers may be 10–20% below market.
• Tips:
– Get quotes from several dealers.
– Attend regional shows where wheat cent specialists congregate.
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Consignment with Auction Houses or Dealers
• If you want a hassle-free sale and have a premium coin (high grade, prooflike surfaces), consignment can net you higher prices.
• Fees vary—typically 10–20% of the hammer price.
General Tips
• Research recent sale prices for 1945-S Micro S (use completed listings on eBay or price guides on sites like https://coin-identifier.com/).
• If your coin is high grade, get it slabbed by PCGS or NGC to maximize buyer confidence.
• Offer secure payment methods (PayPal Friends & Family with buyer protection or bank wire).
By matching your coin’s grade and presentation to the right platform, you’ll reach the buyers most interested in a 1945-S Micro S penny and achieve the best price.
Here are some insights from collectors who’ve sold a 1945-S “Micro S” Lincoln cent:
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eBay Auctions
- Most popular platform due to massive audience.
- Sellers recommend using “Good ’Til Cancelled” listings and clear, high-resolution photos under strong lighting to highlight the tiny “S.”
- Including a detailed description of grade (e.g., MS-63) and authentication helps attract serious buyers.
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Specialized Coin Forums and Facebook Groups
- Niche communities like r/coins on Reddit or dedicated Facebook trading groups often have knowledgeable buyers.
- Trades and private sales here can avoid platform fees, but be prepared to verify authenticity through trusted members or third-party graders.
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Local Coin Shows and Dealers
- Bring your penny to a few reputable dealers for price quotes.
- At shows, you can often negotiate face-to-face and avoid shipping risks.
- Some dealers will buy outright, while others may offer consignment.
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Online Auction Houses (Heritage, GreatCollections)
- Best for high-grade pieces.
- Fees are higher, but you gain access to serious collectors and professional marketing.
- Expect turnaround times of several weeks for catalogs and bidding.
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Consignment with Local Coin Shops
- Your coin stays in the shop until it sells; you split the proceeds.
- Good option if you prefer a hands-off approach and local foot traffic.
Tips for Maximizing Value
- Get your coin authenticated and graded (e.g., by PCGS or NGC) before selling.
- Research recent sale prices for similar grades to set realistic expectations.
- Be transparent about condition issues (scratches, toning).
For more historical context and value estimates on WWII-era coins, see https://coin-identifier.com/blog/coins-overview/1945-dime-valuee