My Circulation Sunday Adventures: Sharing Finds and Numismatic Insights

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of spotting a special coin in your everyday change. That’s why I love ‘Circulation Sunday’—it’s the perfect moment to share unexpected treasures I’ve found over the years and pass along some tips that have worked for me.

Where I’ve Found My Favorite Coins

Coins turn up in the darndest places if you keep your eyes open. I’ve discovered keepers everywhere from coffee shop counters to dusty barn corners while metal detecting. Each find has its own story—like the time I spotted a coin in a parking lot but held back after a playful warning. These days, I stick to more promising spots with my trusty detector.

• Metal detecting: Pulled Wheat Cents and even an old MTA transit token from fields—proof that history’s hiding right under our feet
• Everyday transactions: Routine stops for gas or coffee have delivered gems, like that 1912-D cent that absolutely made my week

Coins That Still Make Me Smile

After decades of collecting, a few finds still give me that collector’s rush. Finding a Stone Mountain half-dollar in circulation? That’s the kind of rare score that becomes an instant collection highlight! Then there’s the zinc cent I uncovered in a dirt-floored barn—a real testament to how these little pieces of history endure.

• Errors that tell stories: Once found a quarter with a die crack that made the horse look like it was ‘spitting’—you’ve really got to examine closely to spot these quirks
• Fresh-from-the-mint surprises: A coin I grabbed at a gas station two years back was so red it practically glowed, likely uncirculated right before landing in my hand

Keeping Your Finds in Top Shape

When I find something special, I’ll sometimes consider grading. Getting one of my favorites professionally graded not only boosted its value but made me appreciate it even more. That bright red coin I mentioned? Its color stayed vibrant precisely because it hadn’t been passed around much.

Here’s what works for me: Handle potential keepers gently to avoid nicks and scratches. If you spot something unusual like a die crack or possible ‘vice job’ (found one in a roll of Jefferson nickels!), get a second opinion. And always store your treasures in proper holders—it makes all the difference.

Field-Tested Tips for Your Hunts

Here’s what I’ve learned that might help your own searches: Always check your change thoroughly. I’ve pulled multiple Stone Mountain halves from ordinary transactions—just 50-cent pieces to everyone else! Pay special attention to anything odd, like unusual wear patterns or die cracks.

• Roll hunting pays off: Some of my best finds, like those Jefferson nickels, came from methodically searching rolls
• Spend or save? I spend common coins unless they’ve got something special, but errors or historic pieces always earn a spot in my collection

So in the spirit of Circulation Sunday, keep looking and sharing what you find. It’s a fantastic way to connect with fellow collectors and discover the stories behind every coin.