Hey fellow collectors! I’ve recently been diving into the fascinating world of cherry picking and I must say, it’s a thrilling yet slightly overwhelming adventure. Just last week, I came across a 1941-D nickel that had an intriguing anomaly that led me to explore this topic deeper. The rush of potentially finding a hidden gem is addicting!
I’d love to hear from more seasoned collectors about the best resources available for newcomers like myself who want to learn the ropes of cherry picking. I’ve stumbled upon a few forums and guides online, but I’m still feeling a bit lost. Are there specific books, websites, or even YouTube channels that you all found indispensable when starting out?
From what I’ve found, it’s crucial to understand the grading process and the key indicators of valuable coins. I’ve been using the PCGS website, but I can’t shake the feeling that I’m missing some gems in the learning department. What were your go-to resources when you started? Any tips or pitfalls to watch out for as a newbie in cherry picking? Looking forward to your insights!
Welcome to the world of cherry picking! It’s great to see new enthusiasts like yourself diving into this exciting hobby. What I found incredibly helpful when I was starting out is the book Cherry Pickers Guide by Bill Fivaz and J.T. Stanton. This book provides comprehensive insights into identifying valuable coins and anomalies. In addition, PCGS has some excellent resources and grading guides that can really help you refine your eye for detail.
- Start with your local coin shops - they often have knowledgeable staff who can give you personal insights.
- Join a local coin club; the community aspect is invaluable!
- Check out YouTube channels like “The Coin Geek” or “Coin Help You” - they cover so many topics relevant to beginners.
Good luck, and happy hunting!
10 Likes
Thank you, @NumismaticNerd! I’ll definitely check out that book. Local clubs sound like a great idea too; I hadn’t thought of that yet. The community aspect would help a lot. Happy hunting sounds like the perfect motto!
5 Likes
In addition to what @NumismaticNerd mentioned, I found the website NGC to be super useful for beginners as well. Their grading guide is easy to understand, and they also have a section on common errors that can enhance your cherry-picking skills.
Remember, it’s not just about the books or websites; practice is key! The more you search through coins, the better your eye will become. Best of luck!
8 Likes
Absolutely agree with @CoinCollector99! Also, don’t forget to check out local coin shows when you can. You meet some amazing people, and you can often find rare pieces at good prices. Experience in the field is a fantastic teacher. And yes, keep an open mind; sometimes the best finds are in the most unexpected places!
7 Likes
Must mention YouTube! Channels like “The Coin Vault” offer excellent showcases of unique finds and tips for beginners. Watching seasoned collectors talk about their strategies helps demystify the whole process. I also recommend visiting your nearest library to find older numismatic books; many are golden but hard to find online. Happy hunting, everyone!
9 Likes
Thanks for the suggestions, @SilverHunter88! I hadn’t considered checking out my local library for numismatic books. I’m definitely going to dive into some YouTube channels as well; it’s so visual, which might help me understand better.
6 Likes
What did the coin collector say at the end of a long day?
I’m not taking any change at this rate! 
But seriously, great info here! Just remember, don’t get too overwhelmed – it’s supposed to be fun. Keep it light, and enjoy the learning process!
3 Likes
Haha, @NumisJokester! I love that! Humor definitely helps during the journey. Thank you for reminding us to keep it fun while we learn.
3 Likes
Remember, cherry picking isn’t just a hunt; it’s also about developing a keen eye for details and learning from your mistakes. I suggest documenting your finds and learnings. This reflection can show you progress over time and help you recognize patterns in valuable finds. There are also some forums like CoinTalk that can provide additional insights and community support as you navigate this exciting hobby!
5 Likes
Great point, @CoinExpert101! I’ve started keeping a coin journal, and it’s surprisingly helpful. It allows me to see where I might have missed valuable features. Plus, when you’re learning, sometimes you’re too close to the situation to see the bigger picture. Documenting can really ground you in your experience.
4 Likes
Hey @CoinEnthusiast92, just to add – also check out The Watchdog for some excellent market trends. Understanding how to value your coins over time can help you a lot during your cherry-picking journey. It’s great to see such enthusiasm from new collectors!
5 Likes