Hey fellow collectors! I recently stumbled upon a D over S overstrike coin while browsing at a local estate sale, and I’m excited yet a bit confused about its condition and potential worth. It’s a rather interesting piece with some surface wear and a few light scratches, but the details seem to be intact, especially around the obverse. I’ve done a bit of research and found some similar coins selling at various prices, but the exact condition always seems to vary widely.
I’m curious about how you all go about assessing a coin’s worth based on its condition. Do you have any tips or methods you use when evaluating unusual pieces like this? I’ve taken a close look with a magnifying glass and noticed the D is quite prominent over the S, which makes it unique, but I’m not sure how much that affects the overall value.
I’d love to hear your thoughts! What factors do you consider most important when determining value? Any specific grading standards you recommend? Looking forward to your insights and maybe some stories of your own finds!
Hey CoinHunter42! It’s exciting that you found a D over S overstrike! These coins can definitely vary in value depending on the condition. To assess its worth, you can follow a few key steps:
- Grading: Use the Sheldon Scale, which ranges from 1 to 70. A higher grade indicates better condition, and this significantly impacts value.
- Visual Inspection: Besides looking at the overstrike, inspect for any marks and surface wear. A coin in MS (Mint State) grade with no scratches will fetch much more compared to one with wear.
- Market Comparison: Check auction sites, or specialized databases like PCGS to see recent sales of similar coins.
From my experience, even light scratches can lower the grade severely, so be cautious. Do you have a photo? It might help in giving a more precise evaluation!
5 Likes
Thanks, CoinExpert77! I hadn’t thought about checking auction sites like PCGS! I’ll definitely look into that. As for a photo, I can post one here shortly. The scratches are minimal, so I’m hoping it can still grade fairly well. Your tips on the Sheldon Scale were really helpful too! Can you tell me what constitutes ‘high grade’?
2 Likes
High grade coins typically range from MS65 to MS70. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- MS65: Well struck, minimal contact marks.
- MS66: Slightly better detail and fewer surface distractions.
- MS70: Perfect condition, no flaws whatsoever!
These grades can see significant price differences. For instance, an
MS65 D over S can go for hundreds, while an
MS70 could exceed thousands! It’s all about that fine balance between clarity and condition. Do you have a coin grading guide you’ve been using?
4 Likes
Great info, Numismatist59! I don’t have a solid grading guide yet, just been relying on general internet research. I might need to purchase a reputable guide or even sign up for a grading course! It seems like understanding the grading nuances is crucial for getting a good price if I decide to sell. Do you guys recommend any specific books or retail resources?
3 Likes
It’s awesome you found a D over S coin! Beyond grading, the market demand is super critical. Keep an eye on various forums and groups; collectors love to share what they pay for coins like these. Condition and strike quality can also change the value drastically! Always ensure you document the coin’s unique traits—like that overstrike—since clear documentation can help a lot if you choose to sell later. Best of luck with your coin!
2 Likes
Thanks, CoinCollectorTom! I appreciate the tips about documenting the coin’s details. I’ve taken some pictures, and I’ll probably share those soon for feedback. it’s kind of like posting a dating profile for a coin, right? 
Stay tuned!
1 Like
I’d suggest getting the coin authenticated as well. Coins like the D over S can have fantastic value, especially if they’re from certain years. Check with trusted grading services like NGC for authentication services. Also, join local coin clubs—they’re a treasure trove of information and networking!
3 Likes
Awesome find, CoinHunter42! D over S coins can be quite rare! And yes, while surface wear affects value, that pronounced overstrike can increase its appeal to buyers. I once sold a similar one, and the bidding went wild! If you love the coin, hold onto it too—sometimes, value isn’t just about money. Check out more forums for pricing trends, they really help in understanding current market sentiments!
1 Like