Hey everyone! I recently stumbled upon a box of coins that belonged to my grandfather, and I was thrilled to find an enhanced finish coin tucked away inside. It’s in pretty good condition, showing just a few minor scratches, but the luster is still quite brilliant.
I’ve been doing some digging, and I learned that enhanced finishes can be quite sought after, depending on the coin type and series. What’s really got me curious is whether I should keep it as part of my collection or send it for grading. I’m not sure if the potential value would justify the cost of grading or if it’s even worth it in its current state.
Have any of you come across an enhanced finish coin before? What did you do with it? Do you think it’s better to sell it raw, or does grading improve the coin’s long-term value? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences!
First off, congrats on the find! Enhanced finish coins can be really intriguing and valuable, especially if they’re part of a notable series. I’ve had a couple in my collection, and they did quite well after grading. A few things to consider before you make your decision:
- Condition: You mentioned it has some scratches; you might want to assess if they significantly impact the eye appeal.
- Rarity: Check the mintage and demand for that specific enhanced finish coin. Some are much more sought after than others.
- Grading Costs: Depending on where you send it (like PCGS or NGC), grading can cost more than you might expect.
I’d recommend researching similar sales on auction sites or platforms like eBay to gauge its potential value. Good luck!
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Thanks for the insight, @CoinEnthusiast77! I’ll definitely look into the mintage and go from there. I appreciate the tips on grading too. Just trying to figure out if it’s worth the trouble!
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When I found my enhanced finish coin, I decided to keep it raw. It was a personal piece from my grandfather as well. I think it really depends on your goals. If you’re a collector, perhaps enjoy it in its current state first. A good idea might be to reach out to fellow collectors or even go to local shows to get more eyes on it before deciding to grade or sell. Plus, you’ll gain valuable feedback!
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That’s a great thought, @OldSchoolCollector! I think I’ll enjoy it for a bit before deciding on grading. Sometimes the memories attached to these coins mean more than their potential value.
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Just a thought: Grading can improve long-term value, especially for rare coins. But if you’re leaning towards selling it now, selling it raw might attract buyers who want to evaluate it themselves. Think about what you want more—immediate cash or the potential for a larger payoff in the future? Another good resource is the US Mint which occasionally provides insights into collector trends!
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I really appreciate the perspective, @CoinGeek42! Definitely weighing my options. Maybe I could set up a poll to see what others would do.
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Enhanced finishes can be tricky to understand, but if you’re not in a rush to sell, I think keeping it for a while might be best. Consider using a certified grading service if you notice any unique characteristics or certifications from collections. You never know; it might appreciate in value quite a bit!
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Why don’t coins ever get lost? Because they always change hands! 
But seriously, hold onto it for a bit unless you’re in immediate need of cash. The sentimental value might just outweigh any potential $$.
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Good one, @JokeCoinCollector! I’m definitely feeling a strong sentimental attachment to this coin, which makes it harder to part with. I think I’ll follow your advice and hold on to it for now!
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As an experienced grader, I can say that grading can significantly impact resale value if the coin has a few standout features or a notable history. Check to see if it has any noteworthy characteristics that might increase its desirability—especially in regards to its mint state (MS) or proof (PF) ratings. Don’t be fooled into thinking every coin needs grading; only do so when you believe it will ultimately add value.
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Discovering an enhanced finish coin in your grandfather’s old coin collection is an exciting find! Here are some steps you can take next:
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Examine the Coin Carefully:
Look for any markings, dates, mint marks, or unique features that can help identify it more precisely.
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Research the Coin:
Use reputable coin identification resources or websites to learn about its origin, rarity, and value. You can visit https://coin-identifier.com/ to help identify and gather information about the coin.
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Assess Its Condition:
The coin’s condition (grading) significantly impacts its value. If it’s in good shape, it might be worth more.
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Consult a Professional:
Consider taking the coin to a certified coin dealer or appraiser for a professional evaluation, especially if it appears to be rare or valuable.
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Preserve the Coin Properly:
Store it in a safe, protective holder to prevent damage.
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Decide on Your Next Step:
Depending on its value and your interest, you might choose to keep it as a family heirloom, sell it through a reputable dealer or auction house, or get it officially appraised for insurance purposes.
Remember, even common coins can have sentimental value, but if it turns out to be rare or valuable, proper identification and preservation are key. For assistance with identification and more info, check out https://coin-identifier.com/.