Finding Hidden Gems in Bulk Lots: A Roll Hunter’s Guide to Circulation Finds

The Thrill of the Hunt

As a seasoned roll hunter, I can attest that some of the most exhilarating numismatic discoveries happen far from the polished cases of coin shops. Whether you’re digging through bank rolls, scouring estate sales, or combing through bulk lots at auctions, the thrill of finding that hidden gem in circulation is unmatched. You don’t always need a dealer to find valuable pieces—sometimes, they’re right under your nose, waiting to be discovered.

Where to Look: Circulation Finds and Bulk Lots

The first step in successful roll hunting is knowing where to look. Bank rolls remain a classic source, but don’t overlook other avenues:

• Bank Rolls: Ask your local bank teller if they have any older rolls. Sometimes, they’ll set aside half dollars or dollar coins for you.
• Estate Sales: Often overlooked, estate sales can yield surprising results. Look for boxes of mixed coins or old jars filled with change.
• Auctions and Bulk Lots: Online auction sites and local coin club auctions frequently offer bulk lots at reasonable prices. These can be goldmines for variety hunters.
• Flea Markets and Garage Sales: While hit-or-miss, these venues occasionally offer overlooked treasures at bargain prices.

Cherry Picking Varieties: What to Look For

Once you’ve got your hands on some bulk coins, it’s time to start cherry picking. Here are some key varieties to keep an eye out for:

Lincoln Cent Varieties

The humble Lincoln cent is a roll hunter’s best friend. Key varieties include:

• 1909-S VDB: The holy grail of Lincoln cents. Even well-worn examples can be valuable.
• 1914-D: Another key date that’s worth searching for.
• 1922 Plain: Look for cents from Denver without a mint mark.
• 1955 Doubled Die: This dramatic doubling is visible to the naked eye.
• 1972 Doubled Die: Less dramatic than the 1955, but still worth finding.

Jefferson Nickel Varieties

Jefferson nickels offer several interesting varieties:

• 1942-1945 War Nickels: These contain 35% silver and are worth more than face value.
• 1950-D: A key date with a low mintage.
• 1964 SMS: Special Mint Set coins with a distinctive finish.

Washington Quarter Varieties

Washington quarters have become increasingly popular among variety hunters:

• 1932-D and 1932-S: The first year of issue and key dates.
• 1964 SMS: Like the nickel, these have a special finish.
• 1965-1967 Special Mint Set coins: Look for quarters with a satin finish.

Tools of the Trade

To maximize your success as a roll hunter, invest in these essential tools:

• Magnifying Glass or Loupe: Essential for spotting small details and varieties.
• Digital Scale: Useful for checking silver content in wartime nickels and 90% silver coins.
• Reference Books: A good variety guide, like the Cherrypickers’ Guide, is invaluable.
• Red and Blue Folders: These Whitman folders help organize your finds and identify gaps in your collection.

Authentication and Grading

When you do find something special, it’s crucial to authenticate and grade it properly. Here are some tips:

“The key to successful cherry picking is not just finding the variety, but recognizing its significance and condition.” – Anonymous Roll Hunter

Authentication

For high-value finds, consider professional authentication:

• PCGS: Professional Coin Grading Service
• NGC: Numismatic Guaranty Corporation
• ANACS: American Numismatic Association Certification Service

Grading

Learn to grade coins yourself for common finds:

• Study the Sheldon Scale: Understand the 70-point grading system.
• Practice on common coins: Use inexpensive coins to hone your grading skills.
• Compare to certified examples: Use online resources to compare your coins to professionally graded examples.

Building Relationships

While the focus here is on finding coins without a dealer, building relationships with local dealers can be beneficial:

• Trade duplicates: Dealers often trade for varieties they need.
• Get insights: Experienced dealers can offer tips on what to look for.
• Consign rare finds: For high-value discoveries, dealers can help with proper marketing.

Staying Informed

The world of numismatics is always evolving. Stay informed by:

• Joining coin clubs: Local and national clubs offer newsletters and meetings.
• Following online forums: Engage with other collectors to share finds and tips.
• Attending coin shows: These events are great for networking and learning.

Conclusion

Roll hunting and cherry picking varieties is more than just a hobby—it’s a treasure hunt that connects us to history and the thrill of discovery. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, the world of circulation finds offers endless opportunities. Remember, patience and persistence are key. Happy hunting!

Related Resources

You might also find these related articles helpful:

• Smart Buying Guide: How to Buy A Quick question — One Time shipping Insurance for a higher value piece Without Getting Ripped Off – Understanding the Insurance Challenge When adding a high-value collectible to your collection, securing the best deal re…
• Crafting Potential: Is Your Mid-Four Figure Coin Suitable for Jewelry Making? – Introduction: Not Every Coin Makes a Great Ring As a coin ring artisan, I often get asked about transforming valuable pi…
• The Complete Guide to Protecting Your High-Value Coin Shipments – Introduction: Why Proper Shipping Insurance Matters Let me tell you, I’ve seen too many valuable pieces ruined by …