Hey everyone! I’m super excited to share that I recently sent my first group submission for grading, and I can’t wait to see how they come back. It was a bit nerve-wracking, honestly, since I picked out a mix of some pretty rare pieces and a couple of more common coins I’ve cherished for years. I did a deep dive into grading standards before submitting, but I’m still curious if I assessed their conditions correctly.
Specifically, I submitted a 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent that I believe should be in the Fine (F) range - there are some notable wear on the high points, but the details still pop. I read somewhere that even slight imperfections can impact the grading significantly, which has me second-guessing. Additionally, I threw in a newer 2021 American Silver Eagle, which I hope will come back in MS-70, as it was never taken out of the capsule.
How do you all assess your coins’ conditions effectively? Do you have any tips or tricks? Also, what common mistakes should I be on the lookout for while waiting for my grades to come back? I’m really eager to hear your insights and experiences!
Congratulations on your first submission! It’s a thrilling moment to wait for those grades. When assessing coin conditions, I recommend getting familiar with the Sheldon Scale. Understanding it can really help you get a handle on what to expect for your grades. For example, the 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent you’re talking about is tricky because, as you said, even minor wear can affect the overall grade. Make sure to closely examine the high points for wear and the fields for any scratches or blemishes. Here are some tips that have helped me:
- Use a loupe to inspect the surfaces closely.
- Compare your coins to online grading guides like those on PCGS or NGC.
- Join a local coin club to get feedback from experienced collectors.
Best of luck with your grades! Can’t wait to hear how they turn out!
3 Likes
Thanks for the suggestions, @CoinEnthusiast72! I definitely need to get a loupe. I’ve also been reading about how lighting can affect what you see on the coin. Do you have any tips on the best lighting for examining them?
1 Like
Lighting is crucial! I use a combination of natural daylight and a bright LED light. Natural light helps with seeing imperfections without overwhelming glare, and a bright LED allows for good detail on the surfaces. Also, consider using a black background to make any flaws stand out more clearly. It sounds silly, but a little trick I do is to tilt the coin slightly to view it under different angles. It can reveal things you might miss at a straight-on angle.
2 Likes
Hey @CoinCollector89, I remember my first submission too! The waiting is the hardest part, right? For assessing coins like the Silver Eagle, remember that mint state coins need to be free from any surface contact. A tiny scratch can drop a coin from MS-70 to MS-69, which is a big deal. Just keep that in mind as you wait for the results.
2 Likes
Thanks for the reality check, @CoinGeek1990. I am a bit nervous about that, especially since I didn’t see any scratches. I hope it stays MS-70!
1 Like
Common mistakes to watch out for: One thing I learned the hard way is to ensure your coins are completely clean before grading, but be careful not to clean them too aggressively! A gentle wipe can help, but harsh cleaning can devalue them even more. Also, be cautious about manipulating your coins; handling them too much can lead to fingerprints or oils from your skin getting transferred. Try using cotton gloves when you handle them.
4 Likes
Great tips, @RareFindHunter! I’ll definitely make sure to wear gloves. I didn’t realize that cleaning could cause issues if done wrong. Any other suggestions for care while I wait for the grades?
1 Like
Storage is important too! Keep your coins in a safe place where they won’t be jostled around. I recommend using coin holders or soft flips to protect their surfaces. If you’re storing them for a while, make sure that whatever enclosure you use is acid-free. Also, avoid places with high humidity to minimize the risk of tarnishing or corrosion.
3 Likes
Just out of curiosity, what age is your oldest coin in that submission? I’ve always had a soft spot for the history behind older coins.
The oldest one is definitely that 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent. I love the story behind it! Thanks for the interest, @JackofAllCoins! What about you? Do you have any older coins?
1 Like
Absolutely! My oldest is a 1795 Flowing Hair half dollar. It’s a beauty! The history behind these coins is fascinating, especially considering all the changes since then. Good luck with your submission! Looking forward to hearing the results!
2 Likes
Best of luck, @CoinCollector89! It sounds like you’ve done everything right. Just remember, patience is key. This wait can feel endless, but it’ll be worth it! Don’t stress too much about the grades; just enjoy the process.
3 Likes
Thanks for the encouragement, @SilverSeeker88! I’ll try to be more patient. It’s so nice to have support during this process! I’ll keep everyone posted on my grades once they arrive. 
1 Like
Looking forward to your updates, @CoinCollector89! Also, let us know if you end up submitting more in the future. Always exciting to see how submissions turn out!
1 Like
Definitely keep us posted, @CoinCollector89! The anticipation is half the fun. And don’t forget, every coin has a story, no matter the grade. 
2 Likes