Hey fellow collectors! I just had a thrilling experience while going through some loose change from my pocket, and it got me thinking about all those legendary stories of key date coins popping up in everyday circulation. Just the other day, I came across a 1916 D Mercury Dime, and although it’s not technically a ‘key date’, it was so worn it made me wonder about its journey. It got me reminiscing about those rare finds that many collectors talk about, and I can’t help but dream of the day I might stumble upon a true gem!
So here’s my question to you all: have you ever found a key date coin while out and about? What was your experience like? I’ve done a bit of research on coins like the 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln penny and the 1914-D Lincoln, and I know these are the holy grails for many. It’s fascinating how some coins can make their way back into circulation after years hidden away. I imagine the stories they could tell!
I’d love to hear your incredible stories! Was it luck, or did you have a tip-off on where to look? Did you recognize it immediately, or did it take some time to realize its value? Share your finds, thoughts, or any tips you have for us aspiring treasure hunters!
Finding a key date coin can be exhilarating! I remember a few years back when I was sifting through some change at a local coffee shop. I pulled out a 1955-P Lincoln penny, and at first, I thought it was just another ordinary coin. But then I noticed the double die! My heart raced because I instantly recognized what I had!
- The 1955 double die penny is a prime example of a key date in the Lincoln series.
- After checking on PCGS, I found that even in low grades, it’s highly sought after.
- I didn’t want to sound crazy in front of the barista, so I just pocketed it carefully.
That moment reminded me how a simple cup of coffee can turn into a treasure hunt! Anyone else have a similar story?
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Wow, @RareCoinHunter88! That’s an amazing find! The excitement of realizing you have something special must have been incredible. I’ve read that the 1955 double die can fetch a premium, even in circulated condition. How did you verify the grade after the find?
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I’d love to share my experience! A couple of years ago, I found a 1916-D Mercury Dime in a penny jar at my grandma’s house! It was mixed in with a bunch of other coins, and I nearly missed it. After cleaning it up a bit, I realized it was in decent shape. I’ve since learned how valuable it is in any condition! I wish I had been more careful because I may have damaged it while trying to clean it. Lesson learned! Now, I’m all about preservation.
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Be careful with cleaning! @NickelNavigator, while it’s tempting, it’s often better to leave coins uncleaned if they are older and have more value. Patina can sometimes add to a coin’s charm and collectibility. Have you thought about getting it graded? You might be surprised at its value!
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I’ve never found a key date coin, but a friend of mine once found a 1909-S V.D.B. penny in a roll of pennies he bought at a gas station! He couldn’t believe his luck! He just happened to glance at it before tossing it into his collection. Now, he’s always on the lookout for rare finds. NGC has great resources on Lincoln pennies if you’re interested in learning more!
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Honestly, how realistic is it to find these coins? I always feel like they’re just urban legends. I mean, can they really circulate after so many years? Or are we all just on treasure hunts for unattainable dreams? I’d love to hear others’ thoughts!
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@CoinDude99, I understand where you’re coming from, but I’ve seen friends and fellow collectors find some incredible stuff. It’s rare, but not impossible! Sometimes, coins just slip through the cracks. Just last month, I saw a YouTube video of a guy who found a 1937-D three-legged Buffalo nickel in a coffee can! You never know what you might find!
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Absolutely @OldtimerCoinFan! There’s a thrill in the hunt! Sometimes, it’s just pure luck. Every once in a while, I check my coin jar just hoping to find something unexpected. Plus, there are local coin shows where collectors often trade or find rare coins hidden in lots!
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I once found a 1970-S proof set! Not exactly a key date, but I was super excited! I was just going through my grandmother’s attic for old coins when I stumbled upon it! It was a nice surprise, and now I’m inspired to dig through every box I can find! Sometimes, you need to look where you least expect it!
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That’s so cool @CoinCollector7! You know, every little find like that can lead to something bigger. I totally agree with you about digging in unexpected places. You never know what treasures might be hiding in old books or drawers!
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