Hey fellow collectors! So, I recently came across a 1955 doubled die obverse (DDO) penny that’s in pretty decent condition, with a clear ‘In God We Trust’ doubling and strong details on Lincoln’s profile. After doing some digging, I learned that attributions can really affect the value, especially for such a sought-after piece. I want to sell it, but I’m questioning just how crucial it is to have it formally attributed by a service like PCGS or NGC before listing it.
From my research, I’ve seen that coins without attribution tend to sit a while longer on the market, while those with solid proof can fetch a premium. I’m curious, though, how much weight do you all think a reputable attribution actually holds in the eyes of potential buyers? Is it worth the extra cost, or can the right photos and accurate descriptions do the trick?
I’d love to hear your experiences! Have you found a dramatic difference in offers between attributed and non-attributed coins? And what are your thoughts on getting this specific coin encapsulated? Let’s chat about it!
Attribution is absolutely crucial when selling a valuable coin like the 1955 DDO penny. Having your coin graded and encapsulated by a service like PCGS or NGC not only provides authenticity but also assures potential buyers of its quality. In my experience, coins without formal attribution often sell for significantly less and take much longer to move off the market. For instance, I recently sold a similarly graded 1955 DDO that I had attributed; it sold within days for 30% more than a comparable coin that lacked any grading. Furthermore, attributed coins are more readily accepted by serious collectors and investors, which can enhance your selling options. If you’re leaning toward selling, I’d strongly recommend the investment in formal attribution. It can pay off in the long run!
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Thanks for the detailed reply @CoinExpert101! That does make a lot of sense. I wasn’t aware that the difference could be so significant in terms of speed and price. Any specific tips for preparing the coin for grading? I want to ensure I maximize its potential value.
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In my opinion, @CoinWhisperer92, having it attributed does help, especially for a coin in high demand like the 1955 DDO. I had a similar experience where I tried selling an un-attributed coin online, and after months of no bites, I finally opted to send it to NGC. Once graded, it sold within a week at a premium price. But if you do plan to sell without grading, make sure to use really good photos and a detailed description—both can make a big difference, but you’ll still probably miss out on some serious offers.
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Agreed! A good photo can sometimes sell a coin, but without that solid backing of an attribution, it can still leave buyers feeling hesitant. I think about it like this: if I were browsing for coins, I’d want to feel secure in my purchase. An encapsulation can eliminate doubts. My last DDO penny was attributed as a MS65, and it opened doors to buyers I normally wouldn’t have reached without the grade.
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Thanks for your insight @TonedTreasures! I’m definitely leaning toward getting it attributed now. Just to clarify, does anyone have suggestions on reputable services or how to make the submission process smoother?
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If you’re worried about the service’s cost, consider keeping an eye out for promotions. Both PCGS and NGC occasionally have discounts or coupon codes for submissions. Just remember to clean the coin’s surface gently, if at all! Overcleaning can harm it more than help it.
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Good point, @CollectorChick! I’ll definitely check for promo codes. And that cleaning tip is super important. I want to keep its value intact! Has anyone else noticed if certain grading services provide better support or faster turnaround times?
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From my experience, both services are quite reputable but you might find NGC has a slightly quicker turnaround for modern coins compared to PCGS. And the customer support at NGC seems to be very responsive, which can make the whole process less nerve-wracking. Hope that helps!
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I’ve had great luck with both services, but I’d add that PCGS may provide slightly higher resale values due to their established reputation in the market. Since your 1955 DDO is highly sought after, you might want to consider who you think your potential buyers are. But overall, don’t shy away from either; both will do a great job!
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As a side note, if your coin has any distinctive marks or characteristics, mention those in the submission paperwork! It can help the graders provide a more accurate description and thus can increase its value. Just my two cents!
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Thanks for all the great tips, everyone! It seems like getting this DDO attributed is the way to go. I appreciate the friendly advice and can’t wait to see how it turns out!
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