Hey everyone! I just received my first professional assessment of a 1964 quarter I’ve been holding onto. It’s graded as VF-20, but it has some slight rim damage that definitely caught my eye. Honestly, I was a bit taken aback by the number of scratches and dings these coins accumulate over the years!
I’ve been diving deep into research on how rim damage affects a coin’s value and grade. A lot of it seems subjective and varies among numismatists. Some argue that even minor damage can significantly drop a coin’s desirability, while others are more lenient, especially for older coins like this one. Personally, I think it all boils down to the rarity and demand for the coin. While this quarter isn’t exactly rare, it holds sentimental value for me since it belonged to my grandfather.
So, I’m curious to hear your thoughts! How do you view grading with rim damage? Do you think it’s worth having a lesser-grade coin in your collection, or does damage overshadow its historical significance? Any personal experiences or tips on handling similar situations would be greatly appreciated!
Welcome to the world of coin collecting! It’s great to hear about your grandfather’s quarter. In terms of grading, rim damage is indeed a tricky subject. Generally, rim damage can significantly influence the grade, especially in professional grading. A VF-20 is a respectable grade, but the scratches and dings might push it down further in the eyes of some collectors. That said, emotional value should also be taken into account, and for a personal piece like this, its sentimental worth might outweigh its market value.
- Consider checking with numismatic experts: They might give you a more nuanced understanding of how this damage impacts collectability.
- Compare with similar graded coins: Sites like PCGS or NGC have great resources for this.
Ultimately, it’s about what you value more in your collection. Happy collecting!
5 Likes
Thanks for your insights! I completely agree that emotional value plays a huge role. I’ll definitely check those resources out. It’s fascinating how subjective this hobby can be!
3 Likes
Regarding rim damage, I think it really varies from coin to coin. Some collectors might overlook minor dings if the coin has a great design or history. However, for investment purposes, it could affect resale value significantly. I’d suggest keeping an eye out for market trends on coins like your quarter.
2 Likes
Absolutely! Some buyers are more focused on aesthetics rather than grades alone. You may find that historical context can often drive interest, especially for pieces with familial ties. Just remember to keep the coin safe! Damage can become worse over time.
1 Like
As a general rule: If the rim damage is very slight and you’re not looking to resell soon, I’d say keep it. This hobby is about enjoyment. However, if you plan on upgrading your collection, be cautious. Here’s a helpful article on potential resale US Mint valuations if you’re considering that path in the future.
4 Likes
Very useful info, @NumismaticNerd! I definitely see myself holding onto it for now. I just love that it connects me to my grandfather.
2 Likes
So if rim damage doesn’t matter, should I start using my dimes as wheel chocks? 
1 Like
Sentimental value! That’s the heart of coin collecting. Just be careful with cleaning it or doing anything that might diminish its current condition. Enjoy your collection, @CoinEnthusiast123!
Interesting discussion! While rim damage can deter some collectors, it really is about personal preference and context. Always consider how much you love the coin and less about the judgment from other collectors. Justifiably, collectors can have differing opinions about a piece!
3 Likes
Edit: Upon reflection, I’ve seen some of the most cherished coins have marks from circulation. It’s like a badge of honor for their journey. Keep it in a safe place, and don’t fret too much! Every scratch has a story.
2 Likes