Hey everyone! I’m just diving into the world of coin collecting and have become fascinated by end rolls. Recently, I ordered a couple of rolls of pennies and I’m eager to see what treasures might be hiding in there. I’ve heard stories about rare varieties and unforgettable finds, but I want to know what to look for to maximize my chances of a good haul!
From my preliminary research, I understand that early Lincoln cents, especially those from the 1909-S and 1914-D years, can be prime targets. I’m particularly interested in the condition of the coins—how does one assess if a find is worth holding onto or simply tossing back into circulation? Have any of you had success in finding anything notable in your rolls?
I’d love to hear your experiences and any tips you have! What specific details should I be checking for as I roll through my coins? Are there any particular coins or varieties that have a surprising market value I should keep my eyes peeled for? Looking forward to your insights and hearing about your collecting journeys!
Welcome to the world of coin collecting! It’s great to hear that you’re diving into end rolls. Here are some crucial things to look for that can make your search rewarding:
- Key Dates: As you mentioned, keep an eye out for the 1909-S and 1914-D Lincoln cents. These are highly sought after, and in good condition, they can fetch a significant price.
- Varieties: Look for the 1970-S Small Date and the 1995 Lincoln Memorial penny with a double die obverse.
- Condition: Assess the coins for their grade. You should familiarize yourself with terms like Uncirculated and Friedberg (Fs) numbers. Coins in better condition will generally be more valuable.
Many collectors also have had luck with finding
error coins. Make sure to check for things like misprints and double strikes. Happy hunting! Let us know what you find!
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I second that info! Make sure you have a magnifying glass handy while you go through the coins; small details can make a big difference, especially for spotting errors. It’s also essential to familiarize yourself with coin grading. Knowing the difference between a MS-65 and MS-67 can be crucial. Best of luck, @CoinEnthusiast92! 
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I love hunting through rolls! I found an uncirculated 1972-D penny last month that was a nice surprise. It’s fascinating how many people overlook these unnoticed treasures! Remember, it helps to have a checklist of the key dates and varieties you want to look for. You can print out a reference from websites like NGC. Good luck!
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Thanks for the tips, everyone! @PennyHunter88, that’s awesome about the 1972-D penny! I’ll definitely keep that in mind. I love the idea of a checklist too! Seeing those coins in person was such a thrill, I can’t wait to dive deeper into the rolls I have!
I’d also suggest checking for copper pennies from 1982 and earlier; they’re becoming more valuable than you might think due to the metal content. If you come across any, you might want to hold onto those as well. Happy collecting! 
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Don’t forget to have some fun with it too! Try to invite a friend for a little competition — see who can find the coolest coin. Sometimes the stories behind how you found a coin are just as fun as the coins themselves. 
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@CoinCollector987, that’s a great point about the copper pennies! I’ve been setting those aside in a separate container. Such an easy way to build a little stash without any extra work. Plus, who doesn’t love a bit of shiny copper? 
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Happy to see so many collectors! For beginners, it’s essential to not get discouraged if you don’t find anything valuable right away. I’ve been collecting for years, and I still learn something new all the time! Just stay patient and enjoy the process.
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Absolutely agree, @BrightFuture! The journey is just as important as what we find in those rolls. I think I’m going to take my time and learn more about the coins as I go along.
Why did the coin collector break up with their partner? They kept saying coin collecting was a waste of change! 
Happy collecting, everyone!
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