My Holed US 19th Century Type Set Update: January 2025 Insights and Missing Pieces

Putting together my holed US 19th-century type set has been quite the adventure, and heading into 2025, it’s a mix of excitement and stubborn gaps. These coins aren’t pristine—they’ve got character in the form of holes! Each one feels like a survivor with stories to tell, and I’m eager to share where things stand since my June update.

The Heart of the Collection: Authenticity and Ethics

Let me get this straight upfront: I’d never drill a hole in a coin myself. Beyond wrecking its value, it’d feel like cheating for collectors like us who appreciate genuine history. Every hole in my set dates back at least 100 years—that natural wear connects us to folks who actually used these coins. There’s something special about finding these “wounded” pieces just as time left them.

Mounting and Display: Practical Tips for Presentation

Best move I made? Mounting everything on cork board with stick pins instead of staples. Staples might seem quicker, but pins are gentler and won’t add new scratches. It’s an affordable setup that lets me enjoy the collection daily. If you’re trying something similar, trust me—pins make all the difference for showing off your finds safely.

Current Status and Missing Coins: Market Realities

Since June, I’ve landed a couple pieces but still have holes in the set (pun intended!). Here’s the breakdown:

• Recent Acquisitions: Scored a quarter for a song, but overpaid a touch on a holed 20-cent piece—prices jump around, so always check recent sales first.
• Missing Pieces: Still hunting four key coins: a Braided Hair half cent, Barber half, Seated dollar with motto, and Trade dollar. Holed Trade dollars are tricky—they often turn up chopmarked from Asian trade routes, which adds history but makes them scarce. Seated dollars with mottos rarely appear holed, and Barber halves in AU condition? Like finding hen’s teeth with holes!

Pro tip: Watch auctions and forums like a hawk, but set limits so you don’t repeat my 20-cent mistake. Persistence pays—holed coins sometimes fly under the radar.

Grading and Condition Insights

With holed coins, forget high grades—look for personality and honesty. I want clear details and natural wear, no funny business. The hole automatically lowers technical grades, so focus on overall appeal. My holed 1860-O Seated dollar? Gorgeous despite its “flaw.” Remember: condition matters less than the journey these coins took to reach us.

Personal Reflections: Connecting to History

This isn’t just metal—it’s a handshake with the 1800s. Blows my mind that I once met a man born in 1863 (he claimed 114 years old when I was a kid!). Even if records are fuzzy, that closeness to history feels real. My own great-grandfather was born in 1879, making these coins feel like family heirlooms. Every hole represents daily use by people who witnessed history unfold.

Building this set has been deeply rewarding, warts and all. If you start one, embrace the hunt and love the imperfections. I’ll keep you posted as I track down those last few coins—wish me luck!