Hey everyone! I’m pretty excited to share that I recently stumbled upon a coin that I believe could be a rare variety of the 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln penny. I found it while going through some old family coins, and it’s in surprisingly decent condition—definitely better than the ones I’ve seen in most of the coin shows I’ve attended!
I did some preliminary research and found that the key to attributing this coin correctly lies in examining specific details, such as the mintmark placement and the lettering on the reverse. However, I’m a bit stuck on the next steps for getting it properly attributed. Should I reach out to a reputable numismatic expert, or would submitting it to a grading service be a better route? I’m curious to know what has worked for others in similar situations.
What are your thoughts on attribution processes? Any tips on reputable services or experts? Also, how important do you think it is to have a coin graded before attempting to sell or trade it? Looking forward to your insights!
Congratulations on your find! The 1909-S V.D.B. is indeed a fascinating coin and very significant in the collector community. To get it attributed properly, I would recommend first verifying the mintmark and checking the details on the reverse. You can reach out to a professional numismatist or send it to a grading service like PCGS or NGC. They have experts who can give you a proper evaluation. Grading not only authenticates the coin but also boosts its value significantly. From my personal experience, submitting coins for grading can lead to valuable insights as well as proper attribution, especially for rare varieties. Good luck and keep us posted on your progress!
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Thanks @NumismaticNerd! I really appreciate the detailed advice. I had a hunch about grading but wasn’t sure if it was worth it. I’ll definitely look into sending it to PCGS or NGC. Have you used either of those services before?
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Submitting for grading is crucial! Especially if you suspect it’s a rare variety. I’ve had a couple of my coins graded, and it was a game-changer for sales later on. Just make sure to package your coin securely when sending it. I once heard a story of someone sending a valuable coin that got damaged in transit! Also, consider documenting the coin’s condition with high-quality photos before you ship it off.
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Yes, I have used both services @CoinHound92! My experience with PCGS was stellar—they were very quick, and I loved the detailed reports they provided. NGC also does great work. I think you can’t go wrong with either, just check their current turnaround times, as they can vary. If you’re looking for a faster option, sometimes smaller, reputable grading services can help too.
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I remember finding a similar coin a few years back! Initially, I hesitated to grade it, but once I did, it opened so many doors for trades and sales. Graded coins tend to attract serious buyers. Don’t skip this step if you believe it’s rare. But do your homework because not all varieties are worth the grading fees. Make sure the potential value exceeds that cost!
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Great find, @CoinHound92! As a seasoned collector, I’ve found that when it comes to rare varieties, accuracy is key, especially if you’re hoping to cash in on it down the road. Definitely examine the details closely. I also recommend showing it to a reputable dealer before grading; they can offer insights whether it’s worth the investment in grading fees. But make sure you trust them—it’s a small community, and word travels fast!
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Attributing coins can indeed be tricky! I suggest using resources like the Red Book and forums for additional insights. I’ve attributed several coins without submitting them for grading, but it’s hit or miss. Sometimes you get lucky, and other times you don’t! So if you suspect it’s a significant find, grading might save you from regret later on.
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Hey all, what do you do when your ‘rare find’ turns out to be a common coin? 
It’s happened to me before, so don’t get your hopes too high until it’s confirmed. But in the meantime, enjoy the journey of researching it—and maybe start a collection of your own found coins, you never know what you might stumble across next!
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