Hey there, fellow collectors!
I’m super excited to share that I just purchased my first crossover coin – a 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln penny! As a newbie, I’ve done some research on what makes a great crossover candidate, but I could really use your expertise. Specifically, I’m curious about how to assess the coin’s grading potential when it transitions from one grading service to another. This coin is in XF condition, but I’m worried about some minor scratches that could affect its grade.
From what I’ve gathered, the crossover process can be tricky, especially with how different services sometimes grade similar coins so variably. I’ve compared some recent sales and seen some surprisingly high premiums for those that crossed over successfully! I’d love to hear your thoughts on what specific factors I should be focusing on when preparing for a crossover. Are there common pitfalls to avoid? What signs of wear should I be especially wary of?
Looking forward to hearing your advice and any tips from your own crossover experiences!
Congratulations on your purchase! A 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln penny is a fantastic coin to start with! When it comes to crossing over, grading can be quite subjective between services. Here are some specific factors to keep in mind:
- Scratches and Hairlines: You mentioned minor scratches, which can definitely affect the grade. Ensure to examine the coin under good lighting to see how deep they are.
- Overall Eye Appeal: This is where some crossover candidates excel. A coin that looks great to the naked eye can sometimes get a better grade despite minor flaws.
- Service Differences: Different grading services have unique standards. Look for the latest trends on how coins are graded at the service you’re considering. Some resources like PCGS provide great insights.
Avoid submitting coins if they have significant flaws that you’re unsure about. Always get a second opinion if you’re uncertain!
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Thanks for the tips! I’ll definitely check the scratches closely. I was worried they might be deeper than I thought, so your advice on eye appeal is really helpful!
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The crossover process is often an emotional rollercoaster! Make sure you look at the coin’s luster as well. Sometimes a great-looking coin can get dinged for lack of evidence of original mint luster during grading. If you feel any uncertainty, consider getting your coin reviewed by a professional grader before crossing. Good luck!
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Great advice, @OldSchoolCollector! I crossed a 1916-D Mercury dime last year, and it was a nerve-wracking process. I had a few hairlines, but the eye appeal really won out! Definitely agree on checking with a pro if you’re unsure, it saved me a lot of headache. Hope you have a smooth crossover, @CoinEnthusiast92!
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Welcome to the world of crossover coins! I’ve been there and made plenty of mistakes. One big pitfall I noticed is not fully researching the crossing criteria of the grading service you’re targeting. Some services prioritize different aspects, so be sure to do your homework. And, if possible, read some NGC articles, as they often provide detailed grading insights.
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Thanks for the warm welcome, @HistoryHunter66! I’ll definitely look into the grading criteria more closely. It’s great to have this support!
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Don’t forget to check the holder too! Some holders can scratch a coin just being transported. If you’re new, consider keeping it safe in an airtight holder until you decide about crossing. Good luck!
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I second @NumismaticNerd on that! Once I had a beautiful coin in a loose holder and it got scratched. Lesson learned the hard way! Always handle it with care!
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Scratches can be sneaky! Just a little advice—if you’re using a magnifier, make sure to check all angles of the coin for hidden blemishes. Sometimes light can make them pop out that weren’t visible before. Crosser beware!
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Excellent reminder, @CoinFever! I didn’t even think about checking from different angles. I want this crossover to go smoothly, so this helps a lot!
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What’s the difference between a coin collector and a coin enthusiast? A collector knows how to cross over without crying! 
But seriously, good luck to you, @CoinEnthusiast92! May all your grades be high!
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