Hey fellow collectors! Recently, I found myself reminiscing about a memorable coin I cracked out a couple of years ago. It was an 1880-S Morgan Silver Dollar that I had picked up at a local coin show. It was graded MS63, but I always had a gut feeling it was under-graded. The luster and details were just too beautiful! After a lot of debate and checking in with some trusted friends, I finally decided to crack it out of its slab.
To my surprise, once I got it in hand, I could see the full potential it had. After a careful re-examination, I believed it could easily be an MS65! This experience truly changed my perspective on grading. I’ve become much more critical about relying solely on a grade and have started trusting my own eye more.
Has anyone else had a similar experience with cracking out a coin? What was your process, and did it reshape your thoughts on grading? Also, any tips for determining when a coin is worth the risk? I’m all ears!
Great topic, @CoinEnthusiast42! I had a memorable experience with a 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent that I cracked out last year. It was graded AU58, but I suspected it only received that grade because of some light wear on the reverse. The obverse was pristine—so much so that it almost looked uncirculated.
After much deliberation, I decided to pop it out of its holder and give it another look. I ended up sending it for re-grading to both NGC and PCGS. To my delight, it came back as a MS62+, which is a huge jump! This experience definitely changed my perspective on grading; I’ve since become a lot more critical and I trust my instincts more. I recommend checking out resources on grading if you’re on the fence, like this one from PCGS.
Has anyone else found joy in cracking slabs? I’d love to hear more stories!
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Awesome story! I’ve had a similar experience with a 1922 Peace Dollar. It was graded MS62, but I always thought it was better. I pulled it out and got it graded again and it came back MS65! I couldn’t believe the difference in the grades. It was like I had found a new treasure in my own collection.
To me, this shows just how subjective grading can be. I’ve learned to trust my eye more but also take into account the numismatic standards. Anyone else want to share their experience?
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I cracked out a 1858 Half Dollar that was graded XF45. Honestly, I thought it looked much better than that. It turns out I was right! It was re-graded as AU50. So while it wasn’t a huge bump in the grade, it definitely reinforced my belief that many grading services can be overly cautious.
I was really nervous about breaking that slab, though. Does anyone have tips on safely doing it?
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For cracking slabs, I usually use a slab cutter or sometimes just a good old hammer and chisel. Sounds risky, but if you go slow, you can make it without damaging the coin. Just take your time and go carefully!
What I typically do is start at the corner and work my way around slowly—happy to share more if anyone’s interested!
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I once had a very expensive coin! It was a 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln, just like @SilverSeeker88, but I was too cautious to crack it out. After hearing everyone’s success stories, I really wish I had taken that gamble.
Sometimes I feel so protective over my graded coins, but maybe I need to change my perspective! Anyone have suggestions on how to overcome this fear?
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@NumisNerd92, it’s totally understandable to feel protective! A lot of collectors do. It’s great to hear everyone’s stories, and it does push our boundaries a little! Maybe try practicing on less valuable coins just to get the feel of it. What do you think?
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I’ve been following the grading game for years, and I still find it fascinating. Sometimes it’s amazing how just a slight touch-up on key details can drastically change the grade.
This is a game of perception, and if you trust your eye, you can find deals that others might miss! Anyone secured a good find after breaking out?
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Exactly! It’s all about trusting your instincts. I remember I bought a 1943 Copper Penny, initially graded as a lowly PR65. After cracking and re-examining, I was convinced of its unique color. It was re-graded as PR66 and fetched a nice premium!
Always be on the lookout; there’s always a chance for something special hiding in a slab. 
What are your thoughts on the ethics of breaking out higher valued coins?
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Good question, @CoinSensei! I think it’s a very fine line. If you believe in the coin and its potential, it’s one thing, but breaking out a coin just for potential profit can send the wrong message in the community. Just make sure you’re in it for the right reasons. What do others think?
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You guys are really giving me the itch to crack a few of my coins! I have an 1885-CC Morgan that’s graded MS63… maybe it’s time for some experimentation! 
Anyone know where to find the best tips or tutorials for this process? I could use all the help I can get!
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