My Holed US 19th Century Type Set Journey: Updates and Insights as of 2025

I’ve been building a unique collection of holed US coins from the 1800s, focusing only on pieces with genuine, century-old holes. Since my last update in June 2025, I’ve made some headway and thought I’d share my journey in this niche corner of coin collecting. For me, it’s not just about the coins; it’s about connecting with history and finding beauty in the imperfect.

The State of My Collection

My collection now includes a range of holed coins mounted on cork board with stick pins – much better than staples, since they keep coins secure without causing more harm. Between January and June 2025, I’ve added a few key pieces: I grabbed a quarter at a steal but paid a bit too much for a holed 20-cent piece (those are like hen’s teeth!). Still missing several types though. Here’s what I’m still chasing:

• Braided Hair half cent
• Barber half dollar
• Seated dollar with motto
• Trade dollar

Tracking down holed versions takes serious patience – they’re scarce and each has its own story. I’ve learned even holed coins in better condition like AU can be stunning additions that hold solid value.

Creative Display and Mounting Tips

Stick pins through cork board have become my go-to display method. Staples might seem convenient, but they risk scratching or bending coins – pins are definitely safer. This setup lets me appreciate each piece up close and share them easily with fellow collectors. Turns a “damaged” coin into a little work of art!

Ethics and Value in Holed Coin Collecting

Let’s be clear: I’d never drill a hole in a coin. Not only would it destroy value, but it’s cheating for collectors like us. Every hole in my set is authentic and at least 100 years old – that history is part of their charm. When I evaluate holed coins, I focus on natural wear around the opening; coins with honest old damage often speak louder than altered ones. And hey, even wounded coins deserve appreciation!

Market Observations and Collecting Advice

Years of hunting holed coins taught me some market quirks. Holed Trade dollars pop up fairly often but usually have Asian chopmarks that sway pricing. Seated dollars with motto? Much tougher to find holed. And I’ve heard whispers that AU Barber halves with holes can be hidden gems – definitely worth a second look if you spot one. My advice? Check for matching wear around the hole to confirm its age, and don’t sweat overpaying a little for rare types like the 20-cent piece – they rarely surface. Grading’s tricky with holes; I use standard scales but factor in the hole’s impact. Strong details in AU/XF coins can still command decent prices.

Personal Connections to History

This collection connects me to the past in surprising ways. I once shook hands with a man born in 1863 during Emancipation – realizing how close we still are to the 19th century. My own great-grandfather was born in 1879, so handling coins from his time feels like touching history. Chilling to think people who witnessed those historic events might’ve held these very coins – that personal link keeps me hooked.

As I keep at it, I’m itching to find those last pieces and share more updates. If you collect holed coins or 19th-century types, enjoy the chase and the stories they carry – that’s the real magic of our hobby!