Hey fellow collectors! Recently, I stumbled upon a fascinating flip over error coin during my local coin shop visit, and I’m absolutely thrilled about it. It’s a 1999 penny with a double strike and some noticeable imperfections. Given that I’m still learning the ropes of grading, I’d love some insights on how to assess its grade accurately.
From what I’ve gathered, I should focus on clarity, luster, and any scratches or marks that could affect the overall grade. I’ve been using the PCGS grading guide, but sometimes it feels a bit overwhelming. This coin has good detail, but the edge shows some wear, which makes me wonder if it leans more towards the lower end of the grading scale. I’m curious: how do other collectors handle grading errors?
I’d appreciate any tips you all might have for a beginner like me. Should I consider getting it graded professionally for my peace of mind, or are there good methods to assess it myself? What specific aspects should I pay attention to when grading error coins? Looking forward to hearing your thoughts and experiences!
Hey CoinCraze45! It’s awesome that you’ve found a flip over error coin! Grading can indeed be daunting at first, especially with error coins where the usual parameters might not apply. I recommend focusing on a few key attributes when assessing your coin’s grade:
- Visual Clarity: Look for any blurring in the images or details that would indicate a strike issue.
- Luster: A strong luster can significantly affect the grade. Make sure to observe it under good lighting.
- Imperfections: Any scratches, marks, or other defects will most likely lower the grade.
- Weight: Sometimes, weighing the coin can help. A flip over error generally should be slightly heavier than usual due to the double strike.
For your specific coin, the wear you're mentioning on the edge might lead it towards a
VF (Very Fine) or
EF (Extremely Fine) grade, depending on the overall detail and luster. I suggest documenting everything, perhaps taking high-quality pictures from different angles. If you're still unsure, consider sending it to a trusted grading service like PCGS or NGC for a professional opinion. They’re a bit pricey, but it provides peace of mind and can increase the coin's value significantly. Hope this helps!
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Thanks, CoinGuru77! Your insights are super helpful! I hadn’t thought about weighing the coin as a method to check the grading. I’ll definitely look into that! It’s reassuring to know I can send it off to a grading service if I’m overwhelmed.
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Hey @CoinCraze45! I recently got into grading too and learned that comparing coins can be incredibly useful. You can find similar graded coins on auction sites or in online forums. Try to find images of coins rated by grading services like NGC or PCGS that resemble yours and see how they are graded. It’ll give you a better perspective. Also, join some social media groups; they can offer great community insights!
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Great idea, PennyCollector101! I’ll definitely look for some comparison coins. I love that community support is so strong in coin collecting!
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Hi there! I just have to throw in a light-hearted reminder that sometimes grading can feel like an art! Factors that you might think are trivial can influence grading. If it feels overwhelming, just remember: even the experts were beginners once! Plus, if you ever feel stuck, you can always post clearer pictures on here and we can help assess it together.
Also, you’re not alone in this journey; it’s a lot of fun learning as a community!
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Thanks for the encouragement, OldTimerCoins! I’m definitely going to remember that grading can be subjective. It’s reassuring to hear that even experts start out where I am now! I might take you up on the offer to post pictures for feedback.
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As an expert on error coins, let me just say this: flip over errors can have a wide range of impact on value depending on their visibility and preservation. For your 1999 penny, I noted you mentioned a double strike, so be sure to check if the second strike overlaps properly—this is crucial. A non-visible error may get a lower grade, but if it’s clear, it could significantly increase value. If you’re considering getting it graded, make sure to document all findings, and sending it to a reputable company, like PCGS or NGC, is worth the investment. Keep us posted on what you decide!
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Thanks for the expert advice, @ErrorCoinExpert! I’ll definitely keep your tips in mind while I research. I’ll look at the overlaps and document everything before deciding on grading options!
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Morning, everyone! Another quick tip for beginners: always check for red flags in coins that look too good to be true. Sometimes, errors are enhanced or created intentionally to inflate value. Always do your homework before making purchases or sending for grading.
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Thanks for the reminder, NumismaticNerd! With all the information I’ve received, I feel more prepared to assess my coin responsibly and avoid any pitfalls!
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