I found a broad strike coin that I believe might be an error. How can I confirm its authenticity and value?

Hey everyone! I recently stumbled upon a broad strike coin while sifting through some of my older collection pieces. I’ve done a bit of research, and it looks like it may be a notable error. The coin has a clear misalignment in its strike, and the details are quite fuzzy, which adds to its unique character. It’s definitely not in pristine condition, but that might add some charm as well!

I’m super curious to know how I can confirm whether it’s genuinely an error coin or just a really good fake. Is there anyone here who’s navigated the world of broad strikes before? I’ve read about checking with reputable grading services, but I’d love to hear any tips or personal experiences. Also, what’s the best way to assess its value in the current market?

Thanks in advance for any insights! I’m excited to learn more about this unique piece. Have you ever come across a similar find? What steps did you take to verify yours?

First off, congrats on your find! A broad strike coin is indeed an exciting piece to discover, especially if it’s an error coin. To confirm its authenticity, I recommend the following steps:

  • Visual Inspection: Look for the signs of a genuine broad strike. This includes an incomplete design and a lack of detail near the edges.
  • Consult Reference Guides: Use resources like the PCGS website, which has a section on error coins that can help you identify key indicators.
  • Grading Services: Definitely consider sending it to a reputable grading service such as NGC for authentication and grading. They will provide you with a summary of the condition and a market value.
Value Assessment: Once graded, you can check auction sites or eBay for similar sale prices to gauge its current market value.
My friend found a similar piece, and after grading, it turned out to be worth significantly more than he expected. Good luck, and keep us posted on your findings!

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Thanks for the detailed response, @CoinExpert101! I’ll definitely take your advice to heart! I’ve been looking into the PCGS website for some guidance, but it’s nice to get the perspective of someone who’s been there. Do you have any tips on how to prepare the coin for grading?

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Great find! I’ve got a few broad strikes in my collection, and I can say that they draw a lot of interest. Authenticating them can be tricky, especially if they’re in less than perfect condition. One way to check is to compare it with similar coins in online databases or forums. Also, don’t be afraid to post clear photos here—in many cases, the community can provide valuable insights.
As far as value goes, the rarity plays a massive role. I had an error coin that was graded incorrectly initially, and when it finally got the right grade, the value skyrocketed! Keep us updated!

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Absolutely, @CoinEnthusiast42! Preparation is key for grading. Here are my suggestions:

  • Handle the coin by the edges to avoid fingerprints.
  • Use a soft cloth to gently clean any dirt without damaging the surface. Avoid harsh chemicals!
  • Store it in a protective holder, like a capsule, to keep it safe during shipping.
Once it’s graded, you’re going to feel a rush of excitement! Keep us posted!

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All of this advice is great! I once sent in a broad strike that I thought was in bad condition, but it turned out the flaws were part of its charm. It graded slightly better than I expected and ended up being a popular talking point at my last coin show. Just remember, condition does not always determine value. Keep us informed of your journey with this coin—it sounds like it could be a gem!

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If it’s truly broad struck, it might catch a lot of interest from collectors! Make sure you’re not confusing it with a normal misaligned strike. I recommend checking out this guide on error coins—it might help clarify things. If you’re unsure, you could always take the coin to a local dealer, as they sometimes can provide quick feedback without the long wait for grading.

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Thanks for the link, @CollectorCarl! I’ll be sure to check that out. It’s a little hard to tell just by looking because I’m not super experienced with error coins yet. I appreciate the tip about local dealers too! :coin:

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It’s a good idea to share pictures, @ErrorCoinHunter! In my experience, broad strike coins have such distinct features that the community can give very viable feedback. I’ve had members here help me identify coins that I wasn’t sure about. I’d suggest posting some close-up photos if you’re comfortable—different angles can reveal a lot!

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What a find! A broad strike coin can be a real treasure. Just be careful, it could turn out to be a strike against your wallet if it’s a fake! :joy: Seriously, keep us updated on your journey and I’m sure with some help here you’ll get to the bottom of it!

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