My Insights on GreatCollections Bidders Being… Well, GreatCollections Bidders

After countless hours watching GreatCollections auctions unfold, I’m always struck by how some coins spark bidding wars while others slide under the radar unnoticed. Let me share what I’ve learned about playing this game smartly, especially with Lincoln cents, proofs, and coins that haven’t gotten the attention they deserve.

The Toned Proof Cent Frenzy

Lately I’ve noticed toned proof Lincoln cents like the 1961 issues going crazy on GreatCollections. One 1961 NGC PF66 RB brought $49 with fees, while a PF66 BN hit $76 and a PF65 BN climbed to $110—all way above Coin Dealer Newsletter values around $0.70 to $6.75. What’s driving this? Collectors love those rainbow colors that seem to shift in your hand. But here’s what I’ve realized after seeing so many: that toning often comes from chemical reactions in old proof set packaging, which might affect long-term stability. Before jumping in, ask yourself: is this truly special or just caught in auction fever? Personally, I’d only chase one if the price matches recent sales like that $700 record-breaker. Otherwise, I’d rather save my bids.

Finding Hidden Bargains

While everyone fought over flashy proofs, I quietly grabbed steals like a 1924-D Lincoln cent in ICG AU-55 for just $57 with fees—CDN lists it at $140-180! Yeah, it had some reverse spotting that probably scared bidders off, but I knew it was a solid key date. Even with flaws, I could get $100 for it locally. Other wins from my watchlist:

• A toned 1952-D Franklin half in NGC MS-65 for $41—CDN says $75-100, and Franklins this nice rarely go that cheap
• A 1952-S Franklin half for $52 (CDN $70-95), semi-scarce with great toning
• Foreign silver like a 1907-S USPI 20 Centavos in ANACS AU-55 for $71.50 (CDN $120-155) and a 1944-D in MS-66 for $55 (CDN $100-130)—both overlooked due to grading service bias

My tip? Hunt in crowded categories or less popular areas like world silver, especially during big events when bidders get distracted. And always double-check CDN values—that’s where the real opportunities hide.

Grading Labels and Profit Chances

Here’s something I’ve picked up over years of collecting: coins in ICG or ANACS holders often get unfairly ignored, creating sweet deals. Take that ICG 1924-D cent—some avoid it for spots or holder prejudice, but I’ve found these slabs usually grade accurately. When reselling, I’d target eBay collectors needing affordable set fillers. Same goes for ANACS coins like those USPI pieces—passing on them means missing bargains. Before bidding, I always examine surfaces for corrosion or problematic toning. And if you buy a discounted coin, consider whether regrading makes sense. That ICG cent might get a details grade from PCGS, but it can still turn profit priced right.

Smart Bidding Tactics

Want to outmaneuver the overeager bidders? Here’s what works for me:

• Target coins with strong basics—low mintage and steady demand—not just pretty toners. I’ll take a key-date Lincoln or classic silver over hyped moderns any day
• Cap bids using CDN as your anchor. If bidding tops 20-30% over CDN, walk away unless it’s truly rare
• Seek lots with light bidding, especially proofs or problem coins. I once grabbed five coins averaging $8.25 each in a $42 lot
• Think about resale: Coins with spots or “lesser” slabs move slower, but still profit when you find the right collector or shop

GreatCollections rewards patience. By focusing on undervalued coins and tuning out the noise, you can build an amazing collection without emptying your wallet. Just come prepared with your game plan!