Finding My PCGS Submissions in the Wild: A Cherry Picker’s Guide

The Art of Roll Hunting and Cherry Picking

You don’t always need a dealer to find hidden treasures. Here is what to look for when searching through circulation or bulk lots.

As a dedicated roll hunter, I’ve learned that some of the most rewarding finds come from the most unexpected places. Whether you’re searching through bank rolls, estate sales, or bulk lots at coin shows, the thrill of discovering something special is unmatched. Let me share some insights from my own experience with PCGS submissions that might help you in your collecting journey.

Understanding the Value of Circulation Finds

Circulation finds can be surprisingly valuable, especially when you know what to look for. Many collectors overlook the potential of searching through everyday coins, but this is where patience and knowledge pay off. When examining rolls or bulk lots, pay attention to:

• Unusual dates or mint marks
• Coins with distinctive toning
• Potential varieties or errors
• High-grade examples in unexpected conditions

Key Markers for Cherry Picking

When searching through bulk lots or estate sales, certain markers can indicate a potentially valuable find:

Look for coins with sharp details, minimal wear, and original surfaces. Even common dates can be valuable in high grades.

Pay special attention to:

• Full bell lines on Franklin halves
• Full head details on Standing Liberty quarters
• Full steps on Jefferson nickels
• Strong strikes and minimal bag marks

Navigating the Grading Process

Understanding the grading process is crucial for any serious collector. While submitting coins for grading can be expensive, there are ways to maximize your investment:

Membership Benefits: Many collectors are drawn to premium memberships for the grading vouchers. However, it’s important to understand that these vouchers aren’t truly “free” – they’re included in the cost of your membership tier. For example, a PCGS Gold membership costs $149 versus $69 for Silver, effectively making each voucher cost around $20 plus additional fees.

Cost Management: To make the most of your grading budget:

• Save up multiple coins before submitting
• Consider submitting through a dealer if you don’t have enough for a full submission
• Use vouchers strategically on higher-value coins
• Factor in all costs including shipping, insurance, and optional services like TrueView

Personal Enjoyment vs. Investment

While some collectors focus purely on investment potential, many of us collect for the joy of the hobby. As one collector noted about their PCGS submissions: “I think it’s worth it if I personally enjoy the coin. I’m not looking to sell anything, just enjoy what I’ve got.”

This perspective is valid – collecting should ultimately be about personal satisfaction. Whether you’re preserving a favorite coin in a new holder or crossing over a piece from another service, the emotional value often outweighs the financial considerations.

Practical Tips for Estate Sales and Bulk Lots

Estate sales and bulk lots can be treasure troves for the patient collector. Here are some strategies I’ve found effective:

1. Arrive early to get first pick of available lots
2. Bring a good magnifying glass and proper lighting
3. Don’t be afraid to dig through “junk boxes” – sometimes the best finds are hidden
4. Learn to quickly identify key dates and varieties
5. Be prepared to negotiate prices, especially on bulk purchases

Storage and Preservation: Once you’ve made your finds, proper storage is essential. Consider using archival-quality holders and maintaining stable environmental conditions to preserve your discoveries.

Real-World Examples from My Collection

Let me share some examples from my own PCGS submissions that illustrate the potential of careful cherry picking:

Example 1: The Morgan Dollar
This coin was purchased years before I considered grading. While it was a common date, its exceptional eye appeal and original surfaces made it worth submitting. The cost of crossing it to PCGS was justified by my personal enjoyment of the piece.

Example 2: The Walking Liberty Half
Acquired for around $40 several years ago, this coin represented an excellent value even before grading. The decision to submit was based on both its inherent quality and my desire to have it in a more durable holder.

Lessons Learned

These experiences taught me several valuable lessons:

• Sometimes the best purchases are made before you’re actively looking
• Personal preference should factor into submission decisions
• The cost of grading should be weighed against both market value and personal value
• Patience in searching often yields the best results

Conclusion: The Joy of the Hunt

Whether you’re searching through bank rolls, attending estate sales, or bidding on bulk lots, the thrill of discovering something special is what keeps many of us in this hobby. While it’s important to be mindful of costs and make informed decisions, never lose sight of why you started collecting in the first place.

Remember, successful roll hunting and cherry picking isn’t just about finding valuable coins – it’s about the satisfaction of the hunt, the knowledge gained through careful study, and the joy of preserving pieces of history. So get out there, start searching, and who knows what treasures you might find!

Related Resources

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