My Very Lucky Feeling: Unearthing a Numismatic Gem

I’ve collected coins for more than ten years, and let me tell you, the rush of pure luck I had on a recent bank run tops it all. It was one of those moments that reminded me why I’m hooked on this hobby—the chance of an unexpected find and the joy of digging up hidden treasures.

The Unplanned Haul

I was at my local bank, just waiting in line to pick up some quarters for storage, when I noticed a teller counting out a small stack of half dollars. Halves don’t show up often around here, and I don’t hunt rolls much anymore, so this caught my eye. I asked if I could buy them, and to my surprise, they said yes. Most of that handful were 90% silver—except for one 1996 piece. But the real prize? A 1923-S Walking Liberty half dollar. Talk about hitting the jackpot! I walked out feeling like the luckiest collector around.

Assessing the 1923-S Walker

Taking a closer look, this coin had a beautiful, rich patina that set it apart from the others. You can see the wear, especially on Liberty’s gown where the stripes are flattened, which puts it in the VG+ to XF range. From what I’ve seen in the market, a 1923-S Walker in XF40 can go for about $990. That’s because they’re scarce and the early San Francisco strikes often have weak details. If you come across something similar, always check the mint mark and the wear to get an idea of its value. I’ve slipped mine into a Whitman holder—simple protection that doesn’t take away from the coin’s character—so it stays safe.

Practical Grading Advice

Getting a coin like this graded can bump up its value and prove it’s the real deal, but it’s not always simple. Here’s what I’ve learned to keep costs down:

• Protect it first: As soon as you find a valuable coin, put it in a flip or holder to avoid scratches or damage from the environment.
• Finding a way to grade: If you’ve only got one coin worth grading, team up with a dealer or a friend who sends in submissions regularly. Or, hit a big coin show—grading services sometimes take submissions there without a membership, though they might ask for at least five coins. I keep a little stash of coins I think are worth grading and add to it until I have enough for a batch.
• Budget-friendly grading: ICG is a good, affordable option. But always check if the grading fee is worth what you might get back if you sell. Remember, if you’re holding onto the coin for years, grading might not be urgent—but it sure helps when it’s time to sell.

Wrapping It Up

This whole thing reminded me to always keep an eye out, even at the bank—you never know when a lucky break might come. Coin collecting is full of surprises, and whether it’s a rare Walker or a common quarter, every find adds to the fun. I’m keeping this one as a memento of that lucky feeling, and I hope you’ll stay sharp for your own numismatic treasure—silver or gold! Happy hunting!