MS-64 Coins Unveiled: The Insider’s Playbook to Buying, Grading, and Profiting from the Most Misunderstood Grade

Most collectors overlook these MS-64 secrets. After 30 years in the coin trade, here’s what really matters.

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room – MS-64 coins aren’t just “almost Mint State” pieces collecting dust in dealer cases. I’ve spent decades hunting these misunderstood gems, watching collectors leave money on the table while chasing higher grades. The truth? Some of my biggest wins came from seeing potential where others saw compromise.

The Hidden Power of MS-64 Coins (And Why Smart Collectors Love Them)

Where Value Grows Fastest

Here’s a reality check from the bourse floor: MS-65 coins cost a fortune, MS-63s are everywhere, but MS-64? That’s where the magic happens. Take the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent. In MS-64? About $1,200. That same coin in MS-65? Suddenly you’re looking at $12,000+. The trick isn’t finding perfect coins – it’s spotting ones that could become perfect with time and the right approach.

I’ve watched three types of MS-64 coins consistently outperform: those with surfaces that make you say “wow,” better strikes than their peers, and coins needed for popular registry sets.

The Hidden Luster Factor

Want to know what graders won’t tell you at coin shows? Nearly three-quarters of MS-64 coins miss the 65 grade not because of marks, but luster issues. Here’s how I spot sleepers:

• Spin the coin slowly under angled light – hidden flaws pop out
• Watch how light dances across the surface (cartwheel vs. flat reflections)
• Look for coins graded at day’s end when tired eyes might overlook potential
• Notice toning that might hide tiny imperfections
• Check when it was graded (Tuesday mornings show stricter standards)

Building Wealth One Crossover at a Time

Let me tell you about my 1885-CC Morgan dollar. Bought it raw at a small show for $2,850. After a $150 resubmission fee to NGC, it came back MS-64★. Eleven months later? Sold for $4,600. This isn’t magic – it’s pattern recognition.


Real-World Crossover Math:
Bought: $2,850 (as ANACS MS-64)
Crossed to: NGC MS-64★
Sold: $4,600
Profit after fees: 58.6%


Why Old Slabs Matter More Than You Think

When collectors whisper about “Gen 2.0 doily slabs,” they’re not being nostalgic. Those early NGC and PCGS holders (think late 80s/early 90s) often hold hidden potential because:

• Graders were tougher back then – today’s standards might bump the grade
• Modern conservation can improve surfaces dramatically
• Set collectors pay extra for coins in original holders

Timing Your Buys Like a Pro

Birth year collectors create predictable demand spikes. Here’s how to get ahead of the curve:

Turning 64s into 65s: My Step-by-Step Playbook

1. Seek coins graded between 2008-2012 – standards were tighter then
2. Look for CAC stickers – they’re like a second opinion whispering “this could go higher”
3. Pay $75 for a “body bag” review before submitting – saves money long-term
4. Submit during ANA events – graders seem more generous when surrounded by peers

That 1877-S Seated Half in the forums? Bought for $8,750, sold for $13,200 after using these exact steps. The profit paid for my entire summer show circuit.

Avoid These Costly MS-64 Mistakes

1. Brown Label Blindness

Don’t shy away from brown-labeled Morgans. I’ve made my best returns on PCGS MS-64BN coins with red tags from the late 80s. After professional conservation, many turn red-brown (RB) – suddenly you’re sitting on a 60% profit margin.

2. Missing the Strike Sweet Spot

Two 1881-S Morgans, same MS-64 grade, wildly different values:

• Weak breast feathers: $125
• Full feather detail: $375

I always carry a 5x loupe when buying – that extra look has turned $200 coins into $800 sales.

3. Population Report Pitfalls

New collectors see low numbers and assume rarity. Veterans know better:


Smart Collector's Formula:
(Number Graded ÷ Estimated Survivors) × (Registry Demand × 0.85) = True Value


The 1878-CC Morgan? 412 graded but 1,200+ survivors = mediocre rarity. The 1893-S? 82 graded with 150 survivors = hidden gem status.

The Coming 1964 Gold Rush

Collectors born in 1964 are now hitting their prime spending years. What does that mean for prices?

• 1964 Proof Sets: Up 27% since 2020
• 1964 Peace Dollars (Fantasy Issues): Rocketed up 412%
• 1964-D Quarters in MS-66+: Nearly doubled in value

My advice? Start building quality 1964 positions now before everyone scrambles to buy their birth year coins in 2026-2028.

Becoming an MS-64 Whisperer

Success with these coins comes down to three things:

• Patience to wait for the right crossover candidate
• Discipline to avoid overpaying for artificial rarity
• Courage to buy when others dismiss “just a 64”

Remember what my mentor told me: “Grades change, knowledge compounds.” That MS-64 coin gathering dust in your dealer’s case? It might be tomorrow’s star performer – if you know how to look.

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