Hey fellow collectors! I’ve been diving deep into Cherry Picker’s Guide lately, and I’ve noticed an interesting pattern. Some collectors seem to shy away from purchasing coins categorized as ‘error’ coins. It’s sparked my curiosity—what’s the reasoning behind this? Is it rooted in concerns about value, rarity, or perhaps even market perception?
From what I’ve researched, I understand that some collectors believe that error coins can be a slippery slope. I have a couple of error coins myself, and while they have unique characteristics like off-center strikes or doubled dies, I’ve also heard people argue that they can sometimes be viewed as less desirable due to their questionable quality or provenance. In terms of condition, my error coins range from G to VF, but do these grades affect how we as collectors perceive their worth?
I’d love to hear your thoughts! Do you think it’s mainly about the error’s impact on value, or do you think it’s more about the charm and rarity? Have you had experiences where you decided against an error coin? Let’s unpack this together!
I think it often boils down to perception! Many collectors value consistency and the ‘ideal’ representation of a coin. If a coin has significant errors, like a major off-center strike, it might be seen as less desirable than a well-struck coin. Additionally, errors can vary widely in their impact on aesthetic appeal. Some collectors might feel that certain error types detract from the coin’s overall beauty and therefore its value. This might lead to them avoiding these types altogether. Also, there’s a significant worry about authenticity—are the errors legitimate or altered? These concerns can deter collectors from diving into the error market entirely. 
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Thanks for the insight, @CoinLover99! That makes a lot of sense. I’ve always thought that the history of a coin plays a big role. If an error coin has a fascinating story or is tied to specific historical events, it might warrant more interest and value. But then again, perception seems to be everything in collecting, right?
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Errors can be a double-edged sword. While they can certainly add uniqueness, many collectors fear they might not hold value in future markets. Plus, grades like G or VF can make assessing their worth even trickier. I tend to steer clear of coins with poor grades that also have notable errors. I think it often complicates resale later on. How do you feel about the grading affecting the desirability?
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Absolutely agree with you, @CollectorChick! The grade can really make or break the decision for many collectors. A high-quality error coin might be seen as a treasure, while a lower-grade one can feel more like a regrettable purchase. I’ve seen coins I adored but passed on due to poor condition. As always, it seems to come down to the collector’s individual priorities. Some may prioritize rarity, while others might value pristine quality without any errors. 
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Can’t deny it: I love a good error coin! But officially graded coins with errors can be risky because it’s tough to determine how the market will trend over time. I own a few that I bought years ago that seem to have lost some value recently. I think some collectors feel safer with coins that are traditionally accepted as ‘perfect’ or without errors. Have you guys ever had buyers remorse with an error coin purchase?
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Definitely, @ChronicCoiner! I once bought what I thought was a rare doubled die but later found out it wasn’t in the condition I had expected. I think there’s a blend of excitement and caution when it comes to buying error coins. They can be a great addition to a collection, but due diligence is crucial! Has anyone here found a true gem error coin that defied the odds?
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Interesting discussion, everyone! I think part of the hesitance around error coins is simply the mystique surrounding them. Collectors often wonder about the story behind each error. This intrigue can either draw you in or push you away, depending on your tastes. Personally, I think if the coin intrigues you, it might be worth the dive regardless of market trends. What do you all think?
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@SilverHunter82 I completely agree. Sometimes the heart wants what it wants! A coin with an interesting error might just bring deeper joy to your collection, even if it doesn’t break the bank. Collecting is as much about the journey and enjoyment as it is about value.
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Even as a dedicated error coin lover, I can totally see why some collectors would steer clear. I’ve gotten burned on a couple of purchases that turned out to be underwhelming. However, I’ve also had some amazing discoveries like a PCGS-graded error coin that fetched more than I anticipated! It’s a wild ride, for sure! 
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To add to this, market perception plays a vital role. Many novice collectors recognize the beauty in error coins but fear the potential pitfalls regarding value and resale. Investing in education regarding grading and market trends is crucial. It’s part of the reason I visit places like NGC to expand my knowledge. The more we know, the better choices we can make! 
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