Hey fellow collectors! I recently came across a 1955 Washington quarter that has a noticeable die break on the obverse, and I’m seriously considering selling it. It’s in fairly good condition; I’d rate it at about Fine details, but the die break adds an interesting story to it that I think potential buyers would appreciate.
I’ve been digging into previous sales of similar coins with die breaks and honestly, it’s all over the place. Some sold for premiums, especially if the die break was significant and well-documented, while others didn’t see much of a bump in price at all. I’m torn between pricing it higher to reflect its uniqueness or playing it safe to ensure a quick sale. What have your experiences been? How did you determine the price point for your coins with similar features?
I’d love to hear your thoughts! Are there specific auction platforms where you’ve had success? Any tips for presenting the coin to get the best value will also be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance for sharing your wisdom!
Hey CoinEnthusiast88! I can totally understand your dilemma with pricing! I’ve dealt with a few coins with die breaks, and they really do tell a unique story. I sold a 1972 Lincoln penny with a similar issue a while back. The die break was pretty pronounced and made the coin stand out. Pricing can be tricky; I initially priced it based on general market value, but after doing some research, I ended up listing it 20% higher because of the die break. It attracted a lot of interest! I sold it through eBay and had great luck there. Just make sure to take clear photos that highlight the die break, as that can really catch buyers’ eyes. Good luck with your sale!
P.S. Check out PCGS for auction results on similar coins!
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Thanks for the insights, @CollectorJake88! Your experience definitely helps. I’ll keep that in mind about taking good photos. Did you notice any particular platform working better in terms of attracting collectors for die breaks?
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Hi CoinEnthusiast88! I’ve had a similar experience with a coin that had a pretty significant die crack. I recommend visiting various auction sites and even checking NGC's price guide for insights. Die breaks can add value, but it often depends on the rarity and significance of the break itself. Make sure to reference specific examples when listing your quarter; it can help justify your price to buyers. Happy selling!
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Coin collecting can be so subjective! When I sold my 1944 nickel with a die break, I ended up negotiating quite a bit. I started with a higher price but had to settle for less than I’d hoped. Still, the unintended lesson was that even the lesser value coins can have stories that people resonate with. Also, watch out for buyer inquiries, they can sometimes make or break a deal!
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That’s good advice, @CoinSavvy42! I definitely want to avoid those pitfalls. Did you use any specific platforms for your sale? It sounds like the negotiations really took some time.
Hey everyone! I haven’t sold a coin myself, but I do believe that auction houses can sometimes yield higher prices for unique coins like ones with die breaks. Something like USMint might also have some resources or guides. Collectors not only buy coins but also the tales behind them—so as much as it’s about pricing, it’s also about how you present your coin!
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Great point, @SilverHammer13! I’ll definitely consider how I can share the story of the die break. What’s the best way to convey that in a listing?
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Love this discussion! I think images are crucial, but telling the story of the die break can also include historical context or fun facts about the coin. For example, mentioning the minting process or the rarity of the year can pique interest. I’m sure you’ll find the right buyer, CoinEnthusiast88. Just be patient!
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Excellent advice, @GoldFinder22! I hadn’t thought about combining it with historical context. I’m definitely taking notes here, folks! What’s the best place to find that type of information?
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For historical details, @CoinEnthusiast88, I recommend diving into books or websites dedicated to coin collecting—sometimes even the authors have blogs! I’ve found great resources on Numismatic News. They often have articles that’ll help weave history into your coin’s story.
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Thanks for the link, @MetalDetectorMike! I love the idea of turning this into a broader narrative. Excited to explore this further!
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Don’t rush! Sometimes the right buyer might take time to find. I once sat on a die break coin for nearly six months before it sold for a higher price than expected! Just be patient and consider all your options.
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