My Adventures with Pocket Pieces: Stories, Tips, and Numismatic Insights
June 28, 2025Circulation Sunday Chronicles: My Favorite Finds and Numismatic Insights
June 28, 2025
Introduction: My GreatCollections Auction Adventures
I’ve spent countless hours bidding on GreatCollections auctions, and what fascinates me most is watching how collectors and dealers behave. Lately, I’ve noticed coins getting crazy attention while others with real value get passed over. This isn’t random luck—it’s about knowing the market, understanding grading, and spotting what others miss. Let me share some hands-on advice from my bidding journeys.
The ‘Bidiot’ Phenomenon: When Bidding Goes Wild
On GreatCollections, I’ve watched bidders—we jokingly call them ‘bidiots’—go berserk for specific coins like toned proof Lincoln cents. Take that 1961 NGC PF66 RB: it hammered at $49.15 with fees while Coin Dealer Newsletter (CDN) lists it at just $5-$6.75. Or the 1961 NGC PF65 BN that fetched $110.25 against CDNs of $0.70-$1.00! Meanwhile, solid deals like a 1924-D ICG AU-55 cent slipped through at $57.26 when CDNs value it at $140-$180. When emotion trumps logic, opportunities open for level-headed collectors.
Spotting Overlooked Gems: My Favorite Finds
Hunting undervalued coins has scored me some sweet wins. I target auctions with few bids or coins in less trendy holders. Check out these recent grabs:
- A toned 1952-D Franklin half in MS-65: CDNs $75-$100, landed for $41—rare for MS Franklins!
- A 1952-S Franklin in MS: CDNs $70-$95, won at $52. This semi-scarce date has lovely toning others ignored.
- A 1907-S USPI 20 Centavos AU55 by ANACS: CDNs $120-$155, snagged as sole bidder at $71.50. Gorgeous silver that holds value well.
- A 1944-D USPI 20 Centavos MS66 ANACS: CDNs $100-$130, grabbed for $55—another beauty with strong silver appeal.
These prove coins in ANACS/ICG slabs or with minor flaws can be treasures. The trick? Focus where ‘bidiots’ aren’t swarming—like less flashy series or dates with steady demand.
Grading Biases and Smart Buys
Grading prejudices heavily sway auctions, and I’ve learned to use them. Coins in ICG or ANACS holders often sell cheaper because some bidders dismiss them outright. That 1924-D cent had reverse spotting that might’ve scared folks off, but at AU55, it was still undervalued versus PCGS/NGC coins. Thinking of regrading? Be careful—PCGS might give a ‘details’ grade if they spot past encapsulation issues. My rule: buy at enough discount (like XF prices for AU coins) that you can profit even selling to local shops or eBay below top dollar.
Market Watch: Toned Coins and Silver Sleepers
Toned proof Lincolns have their die-hard fans (one hit $703.12 here!), but they’re tough flips. Their colors shift with lighting angles, making resale tricky unless you find the perfect buyer. Meanwhile, scarce-date Franklins or USPI silver offer steadier demand. The toning on my 1952-S Franklin might’ve deterred some, but it added character without hurting value. For metals enthusiasts, these silver coins deliver history plus tangible asset security—a win-win.
Real-World Bidding Tips
From my experience, here’s how to bid smarter:
- Skip crowded categories: Avoid toned-proof wars; target sleepers like classic coins or world silver
- Live by CDN values: Cross-check auction prices instantly to spot deals
- Buy ‘flawed’ smartly: Minor spots or toning can mean steals—just ensure there’s demand (like set-builders hunting discounts)
- Time your bids: Auctions during big events (Super Bowl weekend, etc.) often have lighter competition
- Mix your targets: Balance with easy-resellers like key-date Lincolns or Franklins
Wrapping Up: Finding Opportunity in Chaos
GreatCollections has been my personal goldmine when I keep a cool head. By staying patient and focusing on grading, collector demand, and metal content, I’ve turned overlooked coins into solid scores. Whether you’re building sets or flipping, remember—’bidiots’ create the gaps. It’s our job to fill them. Happy bidding, and here’s to your next hidden gem!
