Fix Your Modern Lincoln Coin Grading Frustration in Under 5 Minutes (Proven Quick Fix)
September 25, 2025Mastering Modern Lincoln Grading: Advanced Techniques to Elevate Your Coin Collection
September 25, 2025I’ve Seen These Mistakes Over and Over
After years of submitting modern Lincoln cents for grading, I’ve watched collectors make the same costly errors time and again. Let’s walk through the pitfalls that trip up so many people—especially when guessing grades—and how you can steer clear.
Mistake 1: Overestimating Red (RD) Quality
Watch Out for These Signs
It’s easy to get excited by a flash of red and assume RD status. But I’ve seen submissions where:
- Light tan spots were missed
- Subtle toning threw off the overall color
- Discoloration from packaging created false hope
One collector was convinced they had an MS66RD, only to get a BN (Brown) designation due to packaging-related discoloration.
How to Avoid This
Always check your coin under different lights before sending it in. Use magnification to spot:
- Tiny spots that hurt color grading
- Edge toning suggesting past exposure
- Subtle shifts in color across the surface
Mistake 2: Ignoring Rim Damage
The Hidden Grade Killer
As one seasoned collector put it: “PCGS doesn’t overlook rim nicks.” I’ve watched submissions suffer when:
- Small rim dings dropped grades by 1-2 points
- Edge bumps didn’t show up in photos
- Contact marks were mistaken for strike features
What to Do Instead
Before you submit:
- Rotate the coin under angled light to catch rim flaws
- Compare it to high-grade reference coins
- Remember—visible rim damage often caps the grade at MS64 or lower
Mistake 3: Chasing Reconsideration Unnecessarily
The False Hope of Regrades
I’ve heard it before: “That 64 has to be a mistake.” But as others have learned:
- Resubmission fees can outweigh value gains
- CAC rarely reviews modern Lincolns
- TrueView images usually confirm the original grade
Smarter Moves
Instead of rushing to resubmit:
- Ask experienced collectors for their take
- Check population reports for context
- Consider buying a coin that’s already graded—it’s often cheaper
Mistake 4: Overlooking Spotting Issues
The Silent Grade Thief
“Spots tank grades every time—not just the obvious ones, but the subtle ones too.”
I’ve seen coins downgraded because of:
- Tiny spots invisible without magnification
- Environmental damage that worsens in storage
- Residue from careless handling
Prevention Checklist
- Use archival-quality holders for storage
- Always wear gloves when handling
- Inspect under 10x magnification before submitting
Mistake 5: Misreading the Modern Lincoln Market
A Reality Check
As one collector wisely said: “An MS66 example usually runs $35 to $40.” Too many collectors overlook:
- How submission costs stack up against market prices
- That moderns often face stricter grading
- Just how rare top-pop coins are
A Smarter Approach
For modern Lincoln collectors:
- Prioritize eye appeal over technical grade
- Buy certified coins for key dates
- Only submit truly standout pieces
Key Takeaways
From hundreds of submissions, here’s what sets successful modern Lincoln collectors apart:
- They check color under multiple light sources
- They examine rims with extreme care
- They weigh the cost before resubmitting
- They prevent spots with proper storage
- They stay realistic about the modern coin market
Avoid these common mistakes, and you’ll save money, cut frustration, and build a stronger collection. Remember—sometimes what you avoid matters just as much as what you pursue.
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