GreatCollections Bidders Being… Well, GreatCollections Bidders: My Take on Auction Madness

Lately, I’ve been glued to GreatCollections auctions, and wow, the bidding action can be both exhilarating and downright perplexing. As a longtime coin collector, I’ve witnessed plenty of head-scratching bids and surprise finds, so I figured I’d share my perspective on making sense of this lively marketplace.

The Wild Ride of Lincoln Proof Cents

Nothing draws bidders like Lincoln proof cents. Just last week, I watched three 1961 proofs—all NGC-graded—shoot up to prices that had me rubbing my eyes. A PF66 RB fetched $49.15 with fees (CDN $5/6.75), a PF66 BN hit $76.50 (CDN $3/4.10), and a PF65 BN rocketed to $110.25 (CDN $0.70/1.00). Meanwhile, a solid-looking 1924-D cent in an ICG AU-55 holder barely got a glance at $57.26 (CDN $140/180). Classic auction behavior—collectors chasing flashy toned proofs while undervalued gems slip away unnoticed.

Finding Treasures in Plain Sight

The real steals? They’re often in coins everyone else overlooks. Take that 1924-D cent: sure, it had some reverse spotting, but at that price, it’s perfect for building a Lincoln set without emptying your wallet. I’ve found similar opportunities with Franklin halves—like a toned 1952-D MS-65 (CDN $75/100) that went for just $41. Here are some undervalued surprises I’ve spotted recently:

• A 1952-S MS Franklin at $52 (CDN $70/95)—semi-scarce date with lovely toning
• A 1907-S USPI 20 Centavos AU55 for $71.50 (CDN $120/155) in ANACS holder—holds value well even in lower grades
• A stunning 1944-D USPI 20 Centavos MS66 at $55 (CDN $100/130)—silver beauty that rarely gets attention

These prove you can score big when you look past the frenzy.

Grading Holder Blind Spots and Savvy Moves

Here’s what I’ve learned: grading company reputations sway bids more than they should. ICG and ANACS coins often get cold shoulders, but they can be fantastic deals. That 1924-D cent might’ve been downgraded for spotting, but in hand, it could still be a strong AU. If it were mine, I’d keep it raw or sell to a shop—PCGS might details-grade it, making resubmission risky. Same goes for ANACS coins like that 1907-S; their grading’s usually spot-on, and collectors who ignore them miss real bargains.

Field-Tested Tips for Auction Wins

Here’s how I turn bidding madness into smart buys:

• Target quieter categories: Skip the proof cent frenzy and hunt older silver or foreign coins where fewer bidders compete
• Don’t fear minor flaws: Surface spots or toning scare bidders off, but if it’s slight—like that 1952-S Franklin—it can mean serious savings
• Use CDN as a reference, not a rulebook: When coins sell way under bid prices (like an 1812 cent at $51 vs. CDN $200/260 for VG8), dig deeper
• Resell smart: Undervalued coins might not wow dealers, but eBay connects you with collectors wanting discounts. That toned proof cent market? It’s niche but real—aim for quick sales or patient holds

How I Play the GreatCollections Game

When I bid, I focus on solid coins without the hype. I’ll pass on overpriced toned proofs every time for sleepers like that 1924-D cent or underpriced Franklins. Recently, I grabbed a coin set for $42 total (about $8.25 each) and a silver 2021 Crossing the Delaware quarter at $72—both well under market. It’s all about timing and dodging the “bidiots” who inflate trendy items. My advice? Save your cash for high-potential sleepers rather than chasing the pack.

Truth is, GreatCollections auctions reward sharp eyes. Once you understand bidding patterns and holder quirks, you’ll start turning overlooked coins into real wins. Happy hunting out there!