Hey fellow collectors! I recently found myself in a bit of a dilemma while exploring some trade options for my full-band (FB) Mercury dimes. I’ve got a few 1945 and 1944 examples in pretty decent condition—mostly MS65 to MS66—and I’m trying to figure out what a fair trade would be with others in our community.
I’ve done some digging, checking out recent auction results and price guides, and while I’ve seen some dimes go for as low as $10, others seem to fetch upwards of $30 depending on their condition and toning. It makes me wonder: how do you all assess value when trading? Is it purely about the grade, or do aesthetic features like toning and luster play into your decision too?
I’m particularly interested in hearing your thoughts on any additional factors you consider, or any tips you have on negotiating a fair deal. What has your trading experience been like with FB Mercury dimes? Let’s share some insights!
Hey CoinNerd87! When trading FB Mercury dimes, the key is to approach it from a holistic perspective. While the grade of the coin is crucial, I always consider other factors like toning, luster, and even the overall eye appeal. For example, a beautiful toning can significantly raise a coin’s desirability, possibly even above its market value based on the grade alone. Some collectors are willing to pay top dollar for coins that have unique and appealing characteristics, while others stick strictly to the grade. Also, market demand fluctuates—dimes that look pristine in hand might be valued higher than recent auction prices suggest, especially in niche collector circles. It’s worth checking out PCGS for accurate grading information and pricing trends. How do you prioritize these aspects?
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I agree with @CoinLover22 about the importance of toning and eye appeal! I recently traded a 1945 FB Mercury dime that was graded MS66 but had some beautiful blue and green toning. I ended up getting a much better deal than those available on sites like NGC or local shops. Condition is undoubtedly essential, but the aesthetics can make a significant difference. I’d say knowledge about what buyers are currently looking for can be key! Anyone else have experience where aesthetics paid off?
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Thanks for your insights! I never really thought about how much beauty could outweigh the grade sometimes. I’ll definitely start paying attention to the visuals of my dimes as much as the numerical grades. What strategies do you both think work best in negotiating trades?
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For fair value assessment, it’s also beneficial to keep track of recent sales from auctions or even local shows. I usually bring my own price checklist, derived from sites like USMint and online marketplaces. Having documented evidence of current market values can help during discussions. Plus, if you’re eyeing a specific trade, don’t shy away from asking for detailed pics to catch any potential issues that may affect value!
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In terms of negotiation, I often start by asking questions about the coin’s history or why they bought or traded it. This can sometimes reveal the emotional value a seller places on the coin, allowing you to leverage that in your offer. It’s all about establishing rapport—people are often more willing to negotiate with someone they feel a connection to. Anyone have a funny negotiation story?
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I once tried to trade a few Mercury dimes for a nice vintage watch with a collector. Let’s just say it ended in laughter when I realized my dimes were worth about as much as his watch battery! 
Lesson learned: Know your trade partner’s interests!
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Documenting prices is essential! Also, if trading with someone in-person, examine the coin under different lighting conditions. I brought along a flashlight for an in-person trade recently, and it really helped spot some questionable toning that wasn’t visible under normal lighting. Little things like this can make a big difference!
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@QuirkyNick That’s hilarious! Understanding the market value can save you from some embarrassing trade proposals. I mean, trading coins for a watch battery would definitely be a ‘facepalm’ moment!
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When trading, I always try to think ahead. Are there any shows or auctions coming up where this IMO could jump in value, like a certain rarity or historical significance? Timing is everything, and being aware of trends can really help in establishing a fair trade value! Staying engaged in the community is key!
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I always ask the trade partner if they have a bottom line—what’s the minimum they would take? It opens the dialogue while also giving me a baseline to work with without pushing too hard. Sometimes that outright honesty leads to surprising negotiations. Just a thought!
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