My Quest to Identify the Mysterious DB Dollar Variety

I recently picked up an intriguing DB dollar coin that sent me down the rabbit hole of variety identification. You know how it goes – as a collector, these little mysteries are what keep us hooked. Let me walk you through what I discovered, including some tips that might help in your own collecting adventures.

Pinpointing the Variety: The B-9 Revelation

After spending some quality time with my loupe, I confirmed it’s the B-9 variety – often nicknamed the “Amateur Diecutter’s Reverse.” A few telltale signs gave it away:

• That distinct reverse die crack running from the O in OF to the rim, classic Die State 2
• The pointed 9 in the 1798 date – like a little signature for this variety
• Four vertices in the shield and ten arrows in the eagle’s claw on the reverse

With over thirty DB dollar varieties floating around, I’ve learned to cross-check these markers religiously. It’s easy to jump to conclusions otherwise!

Authenticity and Grading: The Realities

First things first – I needed to be sure it was genuine. A close inspection of the edge eased my worries. But this coin clearly lived a full life: long scratches on the obverse (probably mint adjustment marks) and a prominent hole added long ago. That hole stings for grading purposes – it’s not just wear but actual damage – though I’ll admit it gives the coin character. You can almost picture someone carrying it as a pocket piece or pendant. While these flaws knock it down the grading scale, remember we’re still talking about a rare piece with only 300-500 survivors across all grades.

Market Rarity and Collecting Perspectives

In the DB dollar world, this B-9 sits in the “more available but still desirable” category. Funny enough, that hole might actually boost its charm for some collectors – it whispers stories from another time. Price-wise, the damage keeps it affordable, but don’t underestimate it: with just a few hundred known examples, even well-loved coins like this deserve our attention.

Practical Tips for Your Own Hunts

If you’re chasing similar coins, here’s what helped me most:

• Get clear photos of the edge – it’s your first line of defense against fakes
• Memorize key features like the pointed 9 – they’re shortcuts to identification
• Don’t shy away from damaged coins – they’re history you can actually afford
• Never skip the magnifier for checking die cracks – details make the difference

This whole experience reminded me why I collect – every coin holds layers of stories waiting to be uncovered. Here’s to your next great find!