Hey fellow collectors! I’ve recently immersed myself in the world of RPM (Repunched Mint Mark) coins, and let me tell you, it’s been an exciting journey. I’ve been making the rounds at my local coin shops, hoping to stumble upon some hidden gems. Just last week, I discovered a 1955-D penny that had some really intriguing markings. The coin’s in decent condition, maybe a Fine or VF, but I can’t help but wonder if it’s worth getting graded.
My main question: has anyone here had success finding RPMs at local shops? What specific indicators do you look for when sifting through boxes of unsorted coins? I’ve done some research and know to check for discrepancies in the mint mark’s positioning, but I’d love to hear your tips and tricks—especially any memorable finds!
I get really excited about RPMs because each one tells a story, and they seem to fly under the radar of many casual collectors. If you’ve found some RPMs, how did you spot them, and what condition were they in? Let’s share our experiences and insights—I’m all ears!
Absolutely! I’ve been collecting RPMs for about five years now, and I’ve had some great success at local shops. My best find was a 1944-D penny that I bought for just a couple of bucks, and it turned out to be an RPM-001!
- First, always check for double punched mint marks. The angles can be tricky, so bring a loupe if you can.
- Look at the spacing between the mint mark and the edge of the coin; sometimes it’s too close or far away.
- Familiarize yourself with different RPM types by looking at resources like PCGS or NGC.
I also recommend getting a good book on RPMs; it’ll really help you recognize the differences. Good luck on your hunts!
@CoinHunter92, I’d love to hear more about your 1955-D penny!
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Thanks for the tips, @CoinGuru99! I definitely plan to look for double-punched mint marks more closely. The resource links you shared are super helpful! I’m hoping that 1955-D might actually be an RPM; I think it was a bit too subtle for the casual eye. Did you notice any specific conditions that made your RPM finds stand out?
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Great post, CoinHunter92! I’ve found some amazing RPMs at local shops as well. The key is to really examine the coin in bright light. A lot of these markers are subtle and need good lighting to pop! I also recommend paying attention to the overall surface; if it looks like it has been cleaned, it might not be worth much even if it has an RPM. Personally, I check for the following:
- Wear and tear on the mint mark area.
- Comparison to known RPM images available online.
Good luck on your search!
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I have had moderate success at local shops! My best finds, like a 1956-W quarter RPM, were purely by accident. The most important thing is to ask the shop owner if they have any unsorted boxes in the back. They can sometimes overlook unusual items. Don’t hesitate to ask them to pull out anything they might have set aside. What I usually do is compare coins I think are RPMs with my reference materials before making any purchases. Also, remember—condition matters a lot; a grades can be subjective!
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@PennyPincher72, absolutely agree with you about the lighting! I’ve missed several RPMs because I was in a poorly lit area and couldn’t see the discrepancies. It’s surprising how one slight angle can completely change what you see! I also tend to carry a small flashlight with me. It’s a game changer!
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Funny story! My buddy found an RPM while trying to haggle down the price on a different coin! He flipped through the box halfheartedly and suddenly exclaimed, ‘Whoa, what’s this?’ It turned out to be an RPM-002; he was able to buy it for less than $10! So, don’t just go in looking for specific coins—keep your eyes open for all options and be ready for surprises!
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As an experienced numismatist, I’d strongly suggest keeping a log of the RPMs you find, including details about where and how you found them. This can help you to see patterns or specific runs of coins in your local area. Additionally, many RPMs can share similar characteristics based on mint years and locations, so having a catalogue can lead to future successes. Also, if you’re seriously considering grading that 1955-D penny, ensure to clean it as little as possible—maintaining its original state will preserve its value. Check out US Mint for more insights on grading! Happy hunting!
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Thanks for the detailed advice, @ExpertNumismatist! I love the idea of keeping a log; I hadn’t thought of that before. I’m really intrigued by the historical stories behind each RPM too. It adds so much to the excitement of collecting! I will definitely check out the US Mint for any grading resources. Really appreciate everyone’s input here!
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What a great discussion! I just wanted to chime in and say that patience is key when hunting for RPMs. There are days when you won’t find anything, but other days, you might score big. Always be prepared for a long search, and don’t get discouraged if you don’t find anything right away. Keep referring back to the resources and techniques the others have shared!
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