Hey everyone! As a new collector, I’ve recently become fascinated with W quarters, especially since they have such an interesting backstory and relatively limited mintage. I just picked up a few from my local coin shop, but I’m unsure what to look for in terms of value. I think I got a good deal, but how do I know for sure?
One thing I did notice was the difference in the sheen and strike quality between the different quarters. I have a 2019-W quarter from the Burning Bright series that seems to have a really nice finish — do those differences in condition really impact value as much as I’ve heard? I’ve also read up a bit on the rarity of certain designs. What are your thoughts on that?
I’d love to hear what you all look for when purchasing W quarters. Are there specific coins that you consider must-haves in your collection? And how important is grading when deciding whether or not to invest in certain pieces? Looking forward to hearing your insights!
Welcome to the world of coin collecting, CoinEnthusiast1985! Collecting W quarters can be really exciting! Since you mentioned the 2019-W quarters, I’d say that one of the most important things to consider is the mintage. For instance, some designs, like the San Antonio Missions, have lower mintage numbers making them potentially more valuable. When evaluating a quarter, also pay attention to the strike quality, as you noticed. A coin with a brilliant uncirculated finish is often worth more than one with heavy scratches or wear. Here are some tips to guide you in your collecting journey:
- Research the PCGS site for mintage figures.
- Familiarize yourself with coin grading standards.
- Connect with collectors to share experiences.
Happy collecting!
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Great advice, coinlover92! I’d like to add that condition indeed plays a huge role. For example, MS-67 graded coins typically fetch premium prices. Also, don’t overlook variations that could occur due to different die stages. Collectors love those unique instances! On a side note, if you come across the 2019-W American Memorial Park quarter, definitely grab it, as it’s one of the more sought-after designs. Are you planning to visit any coin shows soon? They can be valuable by way of networking and finding rare coins!
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I totally agree with numismatist101! Also, it’s good to take into account the market demand. Sometimes, certain quarters can become popular due to social media trends or collector buzz, which may elevate their prices. Make sure to check auction sites to see what collectors are willing to pay. Do remember, you don’t always have to jump on the most hyped-up coins. Sometimes, the less popular ones can surprise you in terms of value later on. Good luck!
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W quarters are fantastic, CoinEnthusiast1985! Remember to also look for the error coins! They can be worth quite a bit, and they often don’t get as much attention. I once found a 2019-W quarter with a neat die crack; it was an amazing surprise! Check out your quarters under a magnifying glass and do some digging online. You’ll never know what unique finds might be sitting in your collection! Have you looked into getting them graded yet?
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Thanks for the insights, everyone! I haven’t thought much about error coins or the market demand fluctuations. I’ll definitely keep an eye out for rarity and the potential for surprises. As for grading, I’m considering it but not sure if it’s necessary for my current collection. Any tips on where to start with that? I really appreciate all the great advice!
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Starting with grading can seem daunting, but it’s worthwhile! I recommend first visiting NGC to understand their grading scale. They have plenty of resources! Grading can significantly impact resale value, so even if the cost seems high upfront, it can pay off if you plan to sell or trade in the future. Just be sure to select coins you truly believe are worthy of grading. Happy collecting again!
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Grading fees can vary widely, so don’t hesitate to shop around a bit! Some services might charge more for quicker turnaround times. Also, remember that certain coins might fare better with specific grading services. It can be a real game-changer. And CoinEnthusiast1985, I love your enthusiasm! It reminds me of when I started. Have you thought about focusing on a specific series or state quarters next? They can have fascinating stories behind them!
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Why did the coin collector break up with his girlfriend? Because she said she needed space! But in all seriousness, I agree with what’s been said here about understanding grading and rarity. It’s an evolving journey, and that’s what makes this hobby enjoyable. Have fun and keep hunting!
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