My GC Win Last Sunday: A Flying Eagle Cent Treasure
July 1, 2025My Journey to Mastering Raw Coin Grading
July 1, 2025
I’ve been absolutely thrilled to add some amazing pieces to my collection recently and just had to share them with fellow enthusiasts. That moment of unwrapping a new treasure never gets old, whether it’s a commemorative I’ve chased for ages or a surprise find. Let me walk you through these additions and some thoughts they sparked along the way.
The Allure of Commemorative Coins
My new Norfolk half dollar commemorative really stands out. I’ve always loved this classic U.S. design for its historical weight and artistry. The one I found has fantastic luster that makes every detail sing—something I always look for in commemoratives. Coins with this kind of eye appeal and untouched surfaces tend to age well value-wise, which is something worth remembering when you’re hunting.
Dimes and Half-Dimes: Toning Treasures
I couldn’t resist a beautifully toned Mercury dime and seated dime either. When the Merc arrived in a group of six, I actually ran a quick poll to pick my favorite—great trick when you’re torn between options! That tiny half-dime (slabbed with an “H” for half) was another toner I’d been seeking. Naturally toned coins like these bring such personality to a collection and can be real sleepers in the market—just be sure the coloring’s authentic.
Nickels and Non-Coin Surprises
Adding a shield nickel with crisp details felt like a real win. But my haul wasn’t all coins—I also grabbed a 1972 Shirley Chisholm campaign button. While coins are my passion, I find related memorabilia adds wonderful context. If you dabble in extras, just keep them tied to your main interests so your collection stays focused.
Grading and Slabbing Insights
I recently freed some coins from older NGC holders for my album, including one in an NGC 3 slab. It reminded me how grading practices shift over time—like how NGC’s 5FS (five full steps) designation for Jefferson nickels didn’t exist back then. Always peek at holder details when buying slabbed coins; older cases might not match today’s standards. And if you’re cracking coins out, handle them gently and consider resubmitting if you think they might grade higher now.
Practical Collecting Tips
From my recent adventures, here’s what I’d pass along:
- Set a spending limit and collect steadily—impulse buys can sting, but thoughtful additions shape a meaningful collection
- Charm matters most: Luster, toning and strike quality often trump minor grade differences for both pleasure and future sales
- Decode slab labels: Knowing abbreviations like “H” for half-dimes prevents mix-ups and helps you buy smarter
- Share the hunt: Talking with other collectors about finds or running polls can reveal perspectives and treasures you’d miss alone
Every new piece brings that special rush reminding me why this hobby captivates us. What have you added to your collection lately? Wishing you great finds ahead!
