My Thursday Thirties Adventure: Exploring Coins from Decades Ending in 30s

Lately, I’ve been exploring coins from decades ending in the ’30s, and what a fascinating ride it’s been through numismatic history! From ancient Roman pieces to modern U.S. mint errors, this theme has opened up so many collecting possibilities I’m excited to share.

Unearthing Ancient Thirties Gems

My journey started with coins from centuries like the 330s and 530s, where scarcity often tells the real story. Take that Constantine I coin from A.D. 335 I handled – a 20mm bronze piece weighing 3.1g with its rosette-diademed head and Victory reverse. What really grabbed me? It’s a rare copy of a Trajan denarius, making it a true prize for ancient collectors. Then there was that Ostrogothic piece from Witigis’ reign in the 530s, an Æ 10 Nummi from Ravenna featuring Roma’s helmeted bust. Handling these early thirties coins reminded me: always double-check references like RIC or Metlich catalogs when assessing authenticity. A couple things I’ve picked up:

• Scarcity rules – coins like the 1438 Liege II-8 have fewer than six known examples, so I always check auction archives before bidding
• Condition and origin make all the difference – those slight drapery details or mint marks (like ‘CONSA’) can dramatically affect both grade and value

Modern Thirties Marvels and Market Tips

Moving to more recent decades like the 1930s revealed some real surprises that shaped my collecting habits. One favorite was a 1939 coin with occluded gas bubbles trapped in its copper planchet – not damage, but a genuine mint error that makes it special. Now I always examine coins under strong light hunting for these quirks! Then there’s the 1939 Seated Quarter I scored at auction in VG 8 condition for about $100. In today’s market, that felt like finding money in the couch cushions given its history. Here’s what stuck with me:

• Know your grades – VG 8 means full rims but noticeable wear, so learning PCGS/NGC standards helps avoid costly mistakes
• Watch the market – U.S. thirties coins hold steady demand, and errors or low-mintage years (like 1939) often carry nice premiums if you follow price trends

Practical Advice for Thirties Collecting

Through all this, I’ve fine-tuned how I collect thirties coins. First, pick your passion – maybe a specific century, metal type, or error variety – to give your collection focus. Research is your best friend: online databases and past auction results help spot sleepers. I’ve found coins with minor issues that conservation could improve, turning good deals into great ones. And don’t limit yourself! Ancient thirties whisper history lessons, while modern ones offer easier starting points. Really, this hobby thrives on shared enthusiasm – I’d love to hear about your own thirties discoveries!