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July 14, 2025Ooops! (Warning Danger of Eyebleeding) – My Close Call with Coin Toning Gone Wild
July 14, 2025Sal’s Super Silver Sunday really sparked something in me, so I figured I’d share my own collecting stories and some practical tips. What a perfect way to celebrate the hunt for silver coins, tokens, and medals! After all those holiday fireworks, it reminded me how these pieces blend investment with pure passion.
My Metal Detecting Expedition at Historic Schools
Caught up in Sal’s excitement, I grabbed my detector and hit two local schools. One building dates back to 1930, while the other holds special memories – I actually attended there in the early ’70s. If you try this yourself, here’s what works for me: I always research a site’s history first. Old schools often hide treasures where kids dropped coins decades ago. Focus near entrances or playgrounds where things got lost, and always get permission if needed. A detector with good discrimination helps skip modern trash. This trip rewarded me with silver dimes and a token – nothing beats holding history you’ve just uncovered!
Showcasing My Favorite Silver Pieces
Let me show you some standouts from my collection that capture the Silver Sunday spirit. First is a non-circulating beauty I picked up – KM#112. It’s .925 silver, 30mm, and absolutely stunning with its detailed design. Pieces like this often hold value well thanks to their purity and limited numbers. Then there’s my Liberty Seated coin – I’ve fallen back in love with these classics lately. They’re such a cornerstone of U.S. collecting! A well-preserved Seated Liberty quarter makes a great addition to any collection. Just remember, grading matters: coins with sharp details and minimal wear really stand out.
- The Super Odin silver round grabbed my attention – part of Mason Mint’s Mystical Cities series with coin alignment and antique finish. It’s not quite a coin, more like a cross between a token and medal.
- From my detecting trip, I pulled a few silver Roosevelt dimes and a commemorative medal. Proof that getting your hands dirty pays off!
Numismatic Insights and Practical Advice
Finding pieces like the Odin round got me thinking about the differences between coins, tokens, and medals. Here’s how I keep it straight: coins are government-made for spending, tokens are usually private stand-ins (like for a bus ride), and medals celebrate events. When checking condition, I always examine edges, surfaces, and designs – you want clean strikes without cleaning marks. Silver content drives interest, especially .925 pieces – they help protect against rising prices. Starting out? Try common silver like Mercury dimes or Canadian silver dollars. Affordable and plentiful! And don’t forget storage – I keep mine in acid-free holders to prevent tarnish.
Collecting Tips and Final Thoughts
One thing I’ve learned: snap photos and take notes on your finds. It makes each piece more meaningful and helps if you trade later. Remember, this hobby isn’t just about metal – it’s about stories. Like hunting that old school or discovering a new series. I’m always searching for more, and this Super Silver Sunday has reignited that fire. Happy hunting – hope your next find is a real treasure!