I found a 1945-S micro S coin at a local market for a surprisingly low price. How can I determine if I got a good deal or if it’s overpriced?

Hey fellow collectors! I recently stumbled upon a 1945-S micro S nickel while browsing through a local market. It was priced lower than what I’ve seen online, which sparked my curiosity. The coin is in good condition—maybe a solid VF (Very Fine)—with just a few noticeable scratches, but that doesn’t bother me much considering the year and rarity.

I’ve done a bit of research and it seems like these micro S coins can vary quite a bit in value based on their condition and market demand. The most recent eBay sales show a range from $10 to $100 depending on the grade. I’m leaning towards it having a decent value, but I want to hear your opinions! How do you usually determine whether a coin deal is worth it? What factors do you consider most important?

I’d love to get your thoughts on this! What should I check to ensure I’ve got a fair price? Any tips on finding more resources for valuation would be greatly appreciated too!

Congrats on your find! The 1945-S micro S nickel is definitely a piece you want to scrutinize a bit closer. It’s a well-known variety and can fetch a pretty penny depending on its condition. Given that you mentioned yours is around a VF, I’d say you’re on the right track. However, a few scratches can really impact its market value.

Here are some factors I’d suggest considering when determining the worth of your coin:

  • Condition: A proper grading will help immensely—consider getting it graded by a service like PCGS or NGC.
  • Market Demand: Look at the most recent auction results on platforms like eBay or through major auction houses.
  • Rarity: The micro S coins are rarer than you might think, which adds to their value even in lesser grades.
Happy hunting and keep us updated!

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Thanks for the detailed response, @CoinLover123! I will definitely look into getting it graded. Do you have any tips on how to check recent auction prices accurately? I’ve been using eBay, but it’s a bit overwhelming sometimes with so many listings.

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Great find, CoinSeeker44! The 1945-S micro S is one of those coins that collectors really look out for. When evaluating the deal, pay close attention to plating quality; indeed, the scratches can be troubling.

Some quick tips for checking its value:

  • Check sites like USMint for official issues and historical data.
  • Focus on well-maintained listings; filters help a lot on eBay.
  • Consider visiting local coin shows to gauge real-time opinions and trades.
Always a good idea to network with local collectors too, as they can be a wealth of info.

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Thanks, @NumismaticNerd88! I hadn’t thought about local coin shows, that’s a fantastic idea. I’ll definitely do some more digging on eBay and check the USMint site too. Your suggestions are super helpful!

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Just fyi: The price can also fluctuate wildly based on the time of the year. Certain coins are more sought after around different seasons, especially around the holidays.

Also, don’t be surprised if some dealers try to get one over on you; knowledge is key. Have you thought about digital resources like forums or social media groups on coins? They often have real-time discussions about values.

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@HistoricNickel, That’s a good point about seasonal demand! I’ll keep an eye on those trends. I hadn’t considered social media resources. Any recommendations for specific groups or pages to follow?

As an expert: I’ve seen collectors pay up to $150 for a micro S in great condition. If it’s any help, I recommend you take some high-quality photos and compare them with listings from PCGS or NGC, to see if your coin matches their grading criteria. The more informed you are about your coin’s condition and rarity, the better negotiation power you’ll have!

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Thanks for the expert insight, @VintageCoinsExpert! I appreciate the advice on taking quality photos. I’ll start gathering some references from those sites and improve my knowledge of grading. Fingers crossed on the value!

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One last thing: Always trust your instincts when buying. If you feel it’s a decent find based on your research, it usually is! Happy collecting!

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