I recently had an incredible experience at a local coin show that I just have to share! While perusing the tables lined with glimmering pieces of history, I stumbled upon a 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln penny. It was tucked away in a dusty album, and the condition was pretty decent with a good amount of detail still visible. After a bit of haggling, I managed to add it to my registry set, and I couldn’t be more thrilled!
This variety coin took me by surprise as I’ve been focusing on building a solid collection of Lincolns. I’ve done quite a bit of research on the different varieties, like the significance of the S mintmark and the controversies surrounding the V.D.B. initials on the reverse. It’s fascinating how each coin has its own story, and I love connecting the dots between historical context and collector interest.
Now, I’m curious—what unique finds have you experienced in your collecting journey? Have any of you come across a variety that you were completely unaware of until that moment? I’d love to hear your stories and maybe some tips on identifying those hidden gems in the wild!
What a fantastic find! The 1909-S V.D.B. is such an iconic piece for any Lincoln collector. I’m curious about the specifics of its condition. Was it graded? I remember my first encounter with a similar rarity at a coin show years ago. The dealer had it priced higher than I expected but after some negotiation, I walked away with it too! It was a mid-grade piece, but the story behind it was what made it special. If you’re looking for tips on identifying hidden gems, I recommend focusing on small details. Check for die varieties and mint marks. Those details can often bring more value than you might assume. What do you think about getting it graded? If you haven’t already, consider submitting it at PCGS for peace of mind.
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Thanks for the feedback, @NumismaticNerd! The penny is in FINE condition, but I haven’t thought about getting it graded yet. I’m a little hesitant due to the cost. Any experiences you’ve had with that?
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That’s a great story! I recently found a 1943 copper penny at a flea market. It looks almost mint condition! The vendor didn’t know its value. I had my doubts, but after looking it up, I was amazed. It turned out to be worth more than $200, especially since I knew it was a major error coin. Condition can vary, so I’d recommend you familiarize yourself with these errors when hunting too.
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Wow, @SilverStacker88! That sounds incredible! I’d love to hear more about the process of confirming the authenticity of your 1943 penny. Did you have to go through any special verification?
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Finding those special coins can be thrilling! I remember when I unearthed a 1914-D Lincoln penny in my grandfather’s collection. It was unassuming but in decent shape. Researching its background led me to understand its rarity—only a few exist in great condition. For hidden gems, check for subtle signs that may not stand out immediately. Also, something I found beneficial was joining local coin clubs—they often have valuable resources and experienced collectors willing to share tips. Have you considered joining one, @CoinHunter92?
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Thanks, @CoinCollector45! I haven’t yet, but it sounds like a great way to learn more. I’ll definitely look into local clubs. Any recommendations on where to find them?
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Seems like you’ve got the collecting bug! That feeling when you uncover a coin that speaks to you is unmatched. I’ve found a few 1982 Washington quarters with different compositions. The unique ones are a fun surprise! I often search rolls at local banks. It’s cheap and can yield unexpected treasures! Have you dabbled in that method, @CoinHunter92?
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LOL, that sounds fun, @PennyPincher! I haven’t tried searching rolls yet. I didn’t think there would be much to find, but now I’m intrigued. Any tips on what to look for while searching?
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I’ve definitely been there! I still remember finding a 1969-S Lincoln penny that was misattributed by an amateur dealer as a regular issue. It later graded as MS65. A bit of learning on NGC really helped me understand how to authenticate such coins. If you want to spot rarities, always check the mint dates and any unusual characteristics such as the coin’s edge or surface marks. They’re pivotal in determining value.
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That’s great advice, @ThriftyCollector! I’ll definitely take a deep dive into NGC and learn more about spotting characteristics of valuable coins. Appreciate the tips!
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