My Recent Coin Additions: Insights from a Collector’s Hunt

Just got back from my local coin shop with a few new additions that got me excited, and I had to share the details with fellow collectors. We all know that rush of finding something special, so let me tell you about my latest scores and pass along some practical thoughts on grading, varieties, and dodging common pitfalls.

My 1838 Coronet Head Cent: A Sweet Upgrade

I landed an 1838 Coronet Head cent that appears uncirculated – a real upgrade for my type set. It’s got some rim chatter and a die crack near the 2:00 position. After comparing it to other examples, I’m leaning toward it being a Newcomb-4 variety because of that crack by the 9th star. Before putting it in my album, I gave it an acetone bath (rinsed with distilled water and air-dried) to clear off any surface grime safely. Checking the luster breaks behind Liberty’s head and near the date, I’d call it AU-58 – barely touched by circulation. That rim chatter’s typical on these big cents, but watch for deeper marks that could mean damage or even a ragged rim error from a flawed planchet.

Morgan Dollar Musings: The ’92-CC and More

Along with the cent, I picked up a ’92-CC Morgan that’ll fill a spot in my album until I find a nicer one. I also eyed an ’89-CC, but it had been cleaned and just didn’t look right – though I might circle back since only 350,000 were minted. Even lower-grade examples can get pricey for that date. With Carson City Morgans, I’m always extra careful about counterfeits. Here’s how I approach them:

• Use VAMs for verification: Matching the VAM variety helps confirm you’ve got the real deal
• Raw vs. graded coins: While raw coins can be bargains, I stick to trusted sellers or slabbed coins from PCGS/NGC. I once bought a raw CC Morgan that ANACS graded MS63, but I’ve seen enough fakes online to be cautious
• Budget realities: Authentic CC Morgans are often worn or expensive, so I focus on eye appeal. Building my BU set affordably means sometimes accepting details coins for tougher dates like the ’93-S – and yes, I might “forget” to mention those prices to my spouse!

Grading Tips and Collection Wisdom

Grading’s a skill I’m always working on. For Morgans, examine the fields and high points for luster breaks – my ’92-CC has decent eye appeal despite some corrosion and that uneven rim. A few things I’ve learned:

• Safe cleaning: Acetone baths remove gunk without harming surfaces – just use pure acetone and distilled water
• Fake alerts: Be skeptical of raw Morgans, especially dates like the 1999-P. I’ve had some come back graded as cleaned or lower MS than expected
• Chasing rarity: Dates like the ’85-CC are tough finds – I’ve got one in a GSA holder, but plenty remain on my want list. Focus on coins that fit both your budget and collecting goals

These new pieces really show how patience and knowledge make this hobby rewarding. I’ll keep searching for upgrades and sharing my finds as the collection grows – happy hunting out there!