Hey fellow collectors! I’ve been diving deep into the world of coin collecting, and I recently stumbled upon the concept of ‘Full Bands’ versus non-‘Full Bands’. For those who might not be familiar, ‘Full Bands’ typically refers to specific types of coins, like the Mercury Dime, where the bands on the coin’s fasces are fully visible and clearly defined, suggesting a higher grade and more precise minting.
I’ve done some research on the market trends and how these distinctions can impact value. From what I’ve gathered, ‘Full Bands’ coins seem to attract significantly higher bids at auctions compared to their non-‘Full Bands’ counterparts, sometimes by as much as 50% or more! I’ve been considering investing in a couple of ‘Full Bands’ coins myself but wonder if the premium is worth it in the long run. It got me thinking about how much rarity and condition play into overall investment potential.
What are your thoughts on this? Do you think the added value of ‘Full Bands’ coins justifies their higher price tag? Do you have any tips or experiences you’d like to share? Let’s dig into this together!
Full Bands (FB) coins definitely hold more weight in the coin collecting community, especially for those who are serious about investment. For instance, Full Bands Mercury Dimes not only showcase excellent craftsmanship but also represent superior grading conditions. When you consider their numismatic value, the visual appeal these coins exhibit can significantly impact bid prices at auctions. In my personal experience, I’ve noticed that at major sites like PCGS and NGC, FB coins achieve prices that can be 50-60% higher than their non-FB counterparts, depending on the coin condition and market demand. Investing in these coins may feel risky initially, but typically they maintain a better resale value over time. I’d certainly recommend keeping an eye on market trends for these coins and perhaps investing a small portion of your budget in them to see how it goes!
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Thanks for the insights, @CoinExpert99! Your experience really sheds light on the potential of investing in FB coins. What are some specific examples where you’ve seen a significant difference in auction outcomes between FB and non-FB?
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I totally agree with @CoinExpert99! The difference in value is often stark. I found that the Full Bands designation can really attract more serious collectors, which can drive prices up at auctions. So if you’re looking for long-term value, it might be worth considering FB coins! Plus, who doesn’t love showing off a pristine Mercury Dime with those eye-catching bands? 
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To add to the discussion: investing in Full Bands is not just about the current bids—it’s also about rarity and condition. For example, when I started collecting, I focused on non-FB coins, thinking they were more affordable. But after a few years, I traded some of them for FB Mercury Dimes, and the investment paid off! It’s all about the long game. I might suggest you take a look at the US Mint archives to gauge historical trends. Good luck on your collecting journey!
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Great advice, @NumismaticsGuru! I hadn’t thought about looking into the US Mint archives for historical trends. That could provide significant insight into what to focus on in the future.
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One thing I’d note is that while FB coins often appreciate in value, it doesn’t mean that non-FB coins don’t have a market. Sometimes, you can find hidden gems among them if you know where to look! Just keep your eyes open at estate sales or local coin shops. There’s more than one way to collect!
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That’s such a good point, @SilverStacker86. I love the thrill of finding unexpected treasures! Do you have any particular stories of non-FB coins that turned out to be valuable?
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In my experience, Full Bands coins can sometimes even become a niche market within a market. You’ll see a hefty appreciation if you can secure an example during a downturn, turning it into a profit later. Just be wary of fake grading; make sure your coins are authenticated by a known service like NGC or PCGS.
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Absolutely agree, @HistoryBuff45. The investment landscape is full of traps, especially with fakes. Consider investing in a good magnifier if you plan to look for non-FB treasures; they can save you a lot of trouble down the line!
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On that note, investing in sealed rolls or uncirculated packs can be a win-win! You’re securing potential Full Bands and sometimes discovering non-FB coins that are still great collectors’ items!
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Regarding @CoinEnthusiast77’s point, I once purchased a sealed roll of Mercury Dimes and found three FB ones inside! Talk about a success story! 
Have any of you made similar finds?
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