Cherry Picking Queen Anne’s Shilling: Finding Market-Acceptable Coins in Circulation

Introduction: The Thrill of the Hunt

Who says you need dealer connections for remarkable finds? Let me share what to watch for when sifting through circulation coins or bulk lots.

Every seasoned roll hunter recognizes that electric moment when something extraordinary emerges from ordinary pocket change. That precise thrill hit me when I spotted a Great Britain 1707 E shilling (S-3612) in a bulk lot. Its striking Queen Anne portrait practically leaped out at me, whispering promises of historical weight and numismatic value.

Historical Significance of the 1707 E Shilling

This remarkable coin captures a pivotal chapter in British history. Struck during Queen Anne’s reign (1702-1714) at the Edinburgh mint (marked by that distinct “E”), 1707 commemorates the Acts of Union uniting England and Scotland into the Kingdom of Great Britain.

Crafted from sterling silver (.925 fine), these shillings feature Anne’s laureated bust on the obverse and crowned cruciform shields on the reverse. The Edinburgh mint operated under extraordinary circumstances during this transformative period, making each surviving piece a tangible artifact of national evolution.

Identifying Key Markers for Cherry Picking

When combing through bulk lots or estate finds, train your eye on these telltale features:

• Mint Mark Verification: Seek a crisp, well-defined “E” beneath the bust
• Date Significance: 1707 reigns supreme, though later Anne shillings hold collectibility too
• Silver Characteristics: Authentic pieces display that distinctive soft glow of 18th-century preceded silver
• Surface Integrity: Prioritize coins with honest circulation wear rather than harsh cleaning scars

Understanding “Market Acceptable” vs. Details Grading

Here’s where collector wisdom shines: technical grading doesn’t always dictate market reality. While my 1707 E shilling received an N92 (Not Graded 1707) notation for cleaning, its eye appeal fell solidly within what seasoned collectors deem “market acceptable.”

This distinction proves crucial for roll hunters. Coins that won’t straight-grade often retain impressive numismatic value – especially when acquired affordably through bulk lots where pristine mint condition isn’t expected.

Value Guide: What Makes These Coins Special

Let’s break down the collectibility factors:

• Problem-free examples: $200-400 range depending on strike quality and luster
• Details-grade survivors: Still command $75-150 as desirable placeholders
• Key date premium: The historic 1707 date carries significant premium over other years
• Bulk lot opportunities: Often surface at $20-50 when hiding among common material – true hidden treasures!

Authentication Tips for Roll Hunters

Scrutinize potential finds like a detective examining evidence. As noted in my examination:

“The obverse shows natural medal color variation at high points consistent with wear, without telltale hairlines from abrasive cleaning.”

This observation is paramount. Genuine patina develops organically, unlike artificial enhancement. Key indicators:

• Subtle toning gradients rather than sharp contrasts
• Harmonious surface consistency
• Wear patterns matching genuine circulation history

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Learn from fellow collectors’ hard-won insights:

• Grading subjectivity: “Never forget that grading represents a snapshot opinion, not eternal truth”
• Magnification mastery: “A quality loupe reveals surface narratives invisible to the naked eye”
• Second-chance strategy: “Consider resubmission before resigning coins to details-grade purgatory”

Strategic Approach to Resubmission

Veteran collectors often preach perseverance:

“I’ve witnessed coins initially graded ‘cleaned’ achieve problem-free status after resubmission – sometimes even crossing between grading services.”

This tactic makes particular sense for circulation finds where acquisition costs allow multiple grading attempts. That “junk silver” purchase could transform into a premium collectible!

Building Your Reference Collection

One collector’s insightful approach:

“For now, this coin remains in my collection as a study piece – a tangible reference for understanding grading nuances around cleaning.”

Such “problem coins” become invaluable teachers. Handling coins with varied conditions trains your eye to distinguish between true damage and market-acceptable imperfections – essential for spotting undervalued rarities.

Conclusion: The Value of Persistence

The journey of this 1707 E shilling reveals a core collector truth: perfection isn’t essential for significance. “Imperfect” coins found in circulation or bulk lots often carry tremendous historical weight and numismatic value at accessible prices.

Hone your ability to discern between genuine damage and minor flaws through hands-on inspection. With magnification, reference materials, and practiced observation, you’ll build an extraordinary collection that honors history without demanding royal coffers. Remember – every dent, scratch, and toning pattern whispers stories of centuries past. Keep hunting!

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