5 Critical Cartwheel Effect Mistakes That Ruin Coin Value (And How to Avoid Them)

I’ve Watched Collectors Make These Cartwheel Effect Mistakes for Years

After decades in numismatics, I’ve seen the same heartbreak happen too often. A collector excitedly shows me a coin, convinced it’s a rare gem – until we tilt it under the light and that magical cartwheel glow just isn’t there. That distinctive shimmer isn’t just pretty; it’s your first clue about a coin’s true condition. Get it wrong, and you could be overpaying by hundreds.

Mistake #1: The Grading Mix-Up (Even Experienced Collectors Do This)

Here’s the truth: PCGS and NGC don’t list “cartwheel effect” on their labels. Yet I constantly hear collectors say, “But it’s got great cartwheeling!” as if that alone means high grade. While related to surface quality, it’s not the same as strike sharpness or wear. I once watched a dealer pay MS-65 prices for a coin that only showed MS-60 luster – all because they focused on the wrong characteristics.

The Light Angle Trap

Most beginners check coins head-on under harsh light. Big mistake. That brilliant flash you see? Could be artificial toning or cleaning. True cartwheel luster reveals itself gradually as you rotate the coin under soft, angled lighting. Pro tip: Use a 45-degree light source and watch for that smooth, rolling band of light – like moonlight moving across water.

Overlooking the “Dead Zones”

Even coins with strong luster can have dull patches where the cartwheel effect disappears. These trouble spots often appear near devices (the raised designs) or at the rim. I keep a loupe specifically for checking these areas. Found a “dead zone”? The coin likely has hidden problems – maybe improper cleaning or metal fatigue.

The Storage Slip-Up

That airtight holder might protect from tarnish, but improper storage can kill luster over time. PVC-containing flips are the worst offenders – I’ve seen them turn vibrant cartwheeling into a flat haze within years. Always use archival-quality materials, and never store coins where they’ll experience temperature swings (like attics or garages).

Falling for Artificial Enhancement

Some dishonest sellers enhance luster with polishing or chemicals. Telltale signs? An unnaturally “juicy” shine or rainbow hues in the wrong places. When a coin’s cartwheeling seems too perfect, grab your 10x loupe. Look for parallel micro-scratches or a “greasy” surface texture – both red flags I’ve spotted on doctored Morgans.

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