I Am Just Not Good Enough for This: Confessions of a Coin Collector Navigating Doubt

We’ve all been there in our coin collecting journey—that sinking feeling when you’re convinced you’ve found a treasure, only to realize it’s not what you thought. Like the time I nearly danced around holding a “rare” doubled die Lincoln cent… that turned out to be a modern fantasy piece. It’s humbling, isn’t it? Today I’m sharing how I’ve wrestled with self-doubt, fantasy coins, and walking that line between passion and criticism in our wonderful hobby.

My Brush with Fantasy Coins

Take Dan Carr’s creations—they really got me thinking. That fascinating Ike dollar overstruck on a Susan B. Anthony coin? It plays with history, imagining what might’ve happened if the mint kept Eisenhower on the dollar in 1979. Only a handful exist, like the supposed “just three” 1958 Philadelphia doubled die fantasies. But here’s what I learned the hard way: these are artistic experiments struck on real coins, not genuine mint errors. Easy to mistake if you’re not looking carefully—and trust me, I wasn’t!

The Tightrope Walk: Art vs. Counterfeit

This is where things get tricky. Part of me admires the creativity—that Ike/SBA hybrid tells a great story and looks striking. But I’ve also seen how these pieces confuse newcomers. I’ll never forget proudly pointing out “the VDB on the reverse proves it’s real!” only to be gently corrected. My thoughts on the debate?

• Upsides: They bring fresh perspectives to collections and spark “what if” conversations—honestly, most folks find the Ike design more appealing than Susan B. Anthony’s portrait
• Downsides: When artists don’t sign them clearly, they can be mistaken for fakes. That’s why I always say now: fantasy pieces need clear markings so collectors don’t waste money or get discouraged

Etiquette and Egos in Collecting

Over the years, I’ve watched heated debates erupt over coins like these. It’s fine to dislike a piece—I’ve criticized fantasies myself—but attacking someone’s taste? That misses the point. Now I choose my battles carefully: if someone loves a coin I don’t, I’ll share my perspective politely and step back. Trying to “win” every argument just feeds that “I’m not good enough” voice. What matters more is remembering why we’re here—we all collect what speaks to us, and that variety makes numismatics fascinating.

Practical Tips to Avoid the ‘Not Good Enough’ Trap

Want to skip some of my painful lessons? Here’s what helps:

• Verify before buying: Do a quick search on PCGS CoinFacts when something seems off. If you spot a Denver doubled die that shouldn’t exist? Pause and double-check
• Grading clues: Real coins show consistent wear patterns. With fantasies, hunt for artist signatures or layered designs—examine the base coin closely
• Market reality: Fantasy coins are cool conversation starters but rarely gain value. Buy from trusted dealers, and help new collectors understand the difference
• Mindset matters: Every mistake teaches you something. I’ve found joining club discussions (sometimes anonymously!) builds confidence without judgment

At the end of the day, feeling unsure comes with the territory. But through patient learning and respecting fellow collectors, I’ve turned those doubts into discoveries. Keep asking questions, stay open, and remember—every expert was once a beginner fumbling through their first coin album.