My Wicked Washington Wednesday: Coin Finds, Fakes, and Collector Insights

Introduction: Kicking Off Summer with Washington Quarters

You know how coin collecting just feels right around patriotic holidays? This summer, I got swept up in that feeling and started focusing on George Washington quarters – which turned into what I affectionately call ‘Wicked Washington Wednesday.’ It’s become my weekly ritual to share discoveries and learn from each coin’s story.

My Favorite Washington Quarter Finds

Sorting through my collection recently, these Washington quarters stood out to me:

• That 1961 quarter I dug up while metal detecting – still gives me chills finding history in the dirt, even common dates
• The sturdy 1943 piece that always makes me think about its journey through WWII
• My raw set spanning 1932 to 1998, pieced together entirely through swap meets and collector friends – proof that hunting together beats going solo

Spotting Counterfeits: Lessons from a Fake Find

Here’s a tough lesson I learned: not every shiny find is real. I once pulled a counterfeit quarter that felt wrong immediately. At 5.69 grams, it bent like cheap metal and showed no copper core when scratched. That experience taught me:

• Always carry a scale – real quarters hit around 5.67 grams
• Trust your fingers – if it bends easily, walk away
• Study the details: blurry strikes, wonky lettering, or weak reeding are dead giveaways

Grading and Condition Tips for Better Value

Condition makes all the difference, like that stunning NGC MS-66PL Washington quarter I once handled – prooflike surfaces are truly rare birds. For raw coins like my 1932-1998 set, I swear by acid-free holders to stop environmental damage. If you find a potential gem? Get it to PCGS or NGC – that slab makes all the difference for value and peace of mind.

Practical Collecting Advice and Market Observations

After years in this hobby, here’s what sticks: metal detecting delivers surprises, but verify everything. With modern coins like 1982 quarters, mint marks and sharp condition drive prices – hunt those uncirculated examples! Error coins get hearts racing, but always double-check with magnification. That suspicious ’65 quarter taught me to weigh and examine edges religiously. Honestly? Building sets through flea markets or personal hunts keeps the magic alive for me.

Wrapping Up: The Joy of Sharing Coin Stories

These ‘Wicked Washington Wednesday’ sessions reminded me why we collect – every coin links us to history and fellow collectors. Whether it’s a rare prooflike stunner or a common date with character, cherish the hunt, learn from the fakes, and celebrate the stories in your trays. Happy hunting – hope your next find is a real showstopper!