Hey fellow collectors! I recently stumbled upon what seems to be a rare 1916-D Mercury dime. At first glance, I was thrilled, but upon closer inspection, I noticed that the coin has definitely been cleaned. It still retains some of its details, but is it enough to keep it in my collection?
This has me wondering: Does the cleaning completely negate the fact that it’s a desirable variety? I’ve done some digging and found that while cleaned coins can sometimes sell for a fraction of their value, they still might hold significance, especially for a variety like this. I’m a bit torn since it’s a lovely piece with a great story, but I’m also hesitant about how this might affect its collectability in the long run.
What are your thoughts? Have any of you faced a similar situation with cleaned coins? How do you approach attribution when cleaning is evident? Would love to hear your insights!
Hey CoinEnthusiast78! Finding a 1916-D Mercury dime is genuinely exciting, but the cleaning can be a double-edged sword. In terms of attribution, even though cleaning affects market value, it doesn’t necessarily strip the coin of its significance. I’ve had a similar case with a 1937-D Buffalo nickel that was cleaned, and while I was tempted to let it go, I decided to keep it due to its historical importance. Grades for cleaned coins usually drop significantly, but if you enjoy the piece, it still can hold sentimental value. A cleaned coin might be worth holding onto as a reference in your collection. Just don’t expect to get top dollar if you decide to sell it down the line. Just my two cents!
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Thanks for the insight, SilverSeeker87! I really appreciate your perspective on keeping it for sentimental reasons. It’s tempting to think about the market value, but I do feel a connection to this dime. Something tells me there’s a lot of history in it—maybe I’ll just hang onto it for now! Anyone else have similar experiences?
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As an avid collector, I’d say it’s all about what you value. A cleaned coin can still be appreciated for its rarity, like your 1916-D Mercury dime. If you’re planning on keeping it long-term, it might not matter much. But if you’re thinking about selling it someday, consider getting a professional’s opinion from organizations like PCGS or NGC to assess how cleaning affects its value. The stories behind coins can be just as valuable as their actual monetary worth!
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I totally get where you’re coming from, @CoinEnthusiast78. It’s all about the story! Just a few weeks back, I found a cleaned 1955 penny that had a similar allure. It’s not worth much anymore, but every time I see it, I remember the hunt. Plus, it’s a good conversation starter when friends come over!
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Here’s a little coin collecting rule: Always consider the 4 P’s: Provenance, Patina, Preservation, and Price. Cleaning impacts preservation, which subsequently diminishes the price in many cases. However, if the provenance (like the story behind your dime) is strong, it can offset some of the value loss. So, weigh that value against your personal connection to the coin!
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Great points made here! I always tell folks that while cleaned coins have their drawbacks, they can also tell unique stories and represent moments in a collector’s journey. It’s definitely still worth keeping if it sparks joy, as Marie Kondo would say! Maybe take some quality pictures and make a little display around it?
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Honestly, @CoinEnthusiast78, if you love it, that’s what matters! Just remember: Don’t clean any coins yourself in the future. It usually does more harm than good.
If the rarity and story are there, you’ll always find value in your collection.
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Finally, don’t forget to educate your kids about coin value! Even if a coin has been cleaned, it can be a fun lesson on how the grading system works! I still have a cleaned 1999 quarter from when I started collecting as a kid. It’s not worth much now, but it taught me the do’s and don’ts of coin care!
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Just throwing this out there, but cleaning definitely affects the market. I’ve seen cleaned coins get listed for way less, even if they’re rare. Don’t be surprised if you hit a wall selling it someday. That said, if you love the piece, keep it close! Maybe display it next to an uncleaned variant for comparison.
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Good advice, QuickSilver! I think a good display could highlight the differences well. Plus, it might attract some friends’ attention who aren’t as serious about collecting! I’m leaning towards keeping it based on everyone’s advice. Thanks again for all your thoughts!
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In most cases, a cleaned coin can hurt your resale potential, but sometimes rare varieties can still hold value for the right collector. It may be worth documenting its condition and story to see if you can connect with someone who appreciates its history. Just a thought! 
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