GreatCollections Bidders Being… Well, GreatCollections Bidders: My Auction Adventures

I’ve been spending a lot of time with GreatCollections auctions lately, and wow – the bidding action there can be absolutely wild. As someone constantly searching for hidden treasures, I’ve seen how some passionate bidders will send prices soaring on flashy pieces while missing genuinely solid deals right under their noses. That mix of chaos and potential has taught me some real lessons about coin collecting and precious metals.

The Allure of Flashy Coins

During my recent auction tracking, toned proof Lincoln cents were stealing the spotlight. Take that 1961 NGC PF66 RB that sold for $49.15 including fees – way above its $5-6.75 CDN value. Then there was the PF66 BN that brought $76.50 against CDN’s $3-4.10, and a PF65 BN fetching $110.25 versus its modest $0.70-1.00 CDN bid. When coins have that visual pop, bidders sometimes open their wallets wider than the actual value might suggest. It’s fascinating how beauty can override logic when auction adrenaline kicks in.

Finding Treasures Others Miss

While everyone chased those proofs, I spotted some real bargains flying under the radar. That 1924-D Lincoln cent in ICG AU-55? It went for just $57.26 with fees against a CDN value of $140-180 – even with some reverse spotting, I’d have grabbed it instantly for the profit potential alone. You could easily sell it at XF prices around $100. Some other overlooked winners:

• A set of coins for $42 total when CDN values hit $62-84 – great for flipping or your collection
• A 1952-D Franklin half dollar in MS-65 for $41 (CDN $75-100) with lovely toning nobody seemed to notice
• A 1907-S USPI 20 Centavos AU55 for $71.50 (CDN $120-155) and 1944-D MS66 for $55 (CDN $100-130) – both in ANACS holders but beautiful silver pieces collectors often skip

Moments like these show how auction gold hides in less glamorous areas like older silver or foreign coins.

Smart Moves with Grading and Holders

Here’s something I’ve figured out: grading biases can work in your favor. Many collectors avoid ICG or ANACS slabs, but I’ve found their grades are usually spot-on. That 1924-D cent? Without the spotting, it might’ve graded AU58 at PCGS or NGC. But I’d keep it in the ICG holder for resale – resubmitting risks a “details” grade. Same goes for those ANACS USPI coins – accurate grades at lower prices mean profit potential. Just check for toning or corrosion issues first. Coins like these can be perfect for selling on eBay to collectors wanting affordable fillers.

Real-World Auction Strategies

From what I’ve learned bidding, here’s how to win at GreatCollections:

• Hunt where others aren’t: Skip bidding wars over hot items like toned proofs. Focus instead on silver coins, foreign issues, or less popular dates where you’ll have less competition
• Don’t fear different slabs: ICG or ANACS coins can be undervalued steals. Use CDN values to spot bargains
• Watch for duplicates: When several identical coins appear, prices often drop – like those 1952 Franklins
• Consider resale: Coins with minor flaws can still profit if marketed right to dealers or budget collectors
• Bid with discipline: Set limits and keep emotions in check. Remember that not every “deal” flips easily – prioritize liquid coins

At the end of the day, GreatCollections auctions offer fantastic opportunities for sharp-eyed collectors. Stay observant, play it smart, and you’ll find amazing coins without getting caught in the frenzy. Good luck out there!