Smart Buying Guide: How to Buy ANACS Washington Quarter Set Without Getting Ripped Off

Introduction

If you’re looking to add this to your collection, you need a strategy to get the best deal. The ANACS Washington Quarter set represents a unique collecting challenge that combines affordability with the satisfaction of building a complete series. Unlike more common PCGS or NGC certified sets, ANACS Washington Quarters offer collectors an opportunity to acquire quality coins at more accessible price points while still maintaining consistency in grading standards.

Understanding ANACS Washington Quarters

The Washington Quarter series, minted from 1932 to 1964, contains 83 business strike coins in the silver composition. When focusing specifically on ANACS-certified examples, collectors face a more limited supply, making the hunt both challenging and rewarding. The set discussed in our forum thread demonstrates that while not the most valuable collection, it offers significant collecting satisfaction at an affordable price point.

Key Dates to Watch For

Several dates stand out as particularly important for any Washington Quarter collection. The 1932-D and 1932-S are the key dates that command premium prices, especially in higher grades. Forum members noted that these become especially interesting when found in MS64 or better condition. The 1936-D also represents a significant challenge for completists.

Where to Buy ANACS Washington Quarters

Finding ANACS-graded Washington Quarters requires a strategic approach to sourcing. Based on collector experiences shared in the forum, here are the best places to search:

Coin Shows

Coin shows remain the primary source for many collectors building ANACS sets. As one collector noted, “ANACS-graded Washingtons aren’t the easiest thing to come across especially when your main coin source are coin shows.” However, this challenge adds to the collecting experience and provides opportunities to examine coins in person before purchase.

Antique Malls and Local Shops

Don’t overlook local antique malls and coin shops. One collector shared their success story: “This was a part of my first (and so far only) ANACS submission. I purchased raw from an antique mall in Missouri, around 2021-2022. I only paid $6 (PCGS value for MS66 is $75!) for it.” This demonstrates the potential for finding undervalued raw coins that can be submitted for grading.

Online Marketplaces

eBay and other online platforms offer opportunities but require careful evaluation. As one collector warned, “I feel eBay raw quarters are a bit hit or miss…” When buying online, focus on sellers with strong reputations and detailed photographs.

Direct Submissions

Consider submitting raw coins directly to ANACS. The company representative explained their business model: “We want the casual collectors and smaller dealers to submit their coins to us. At the bigger shows where PCGS/NGC/CAC are in attendance, we actually send the customers with higher-end coins to PCGS if they are there.” This approach can be cost-effective for building your set.

Red Flags to Watch For

Building an ANACS Washington Quarter set requires vigilance to avoid common pitfalls. Here are the red flags collectors should be aware of:

Overgrading Concerns

While some collectors assume PCGS is always tougher, others have found ANACS can be equally strict. One experienced collector noted, “I find that quite often ANACS is much tougher with their grading. I know that most here will disagree with me, but like myself, many just assume that PCGS is tougher, but as I really took notice, ANACS can be tough.”

Modern vs. Older ANACS Holders

I’m trying to do only the newest yellow-label with the barcode below the serial number, so basically yeah lol

Be specific about which ANACS holders you’re collecting. The modern yellow-label holders with barcodes represent the current standard, while older holders may have different grading standards.

Price Discrepancies

Understand that ANACS coins typically sell for less than equivalent PCGS or NGC coins. One collector observed, “I’ll guess you’re not gonna have to pay PCGS ms66 price for an ANACS ms66. More affordable and a nice looking set so far.” This price difference can work to your advantage when building a complete set.

Negotiating Tips for ANACS Washington Quarters

Successful negotiation requires knowledge and strategy. Here are proven tips from experienced collectors:

Research Current Market Values

Before negotiating, research recent sales of similar ANACS Washington Quarters. Understand the price differences between grades and dates. For example, MS66 examples of common dates might be significantly less expensive than their PCGS counterparts.

Leverage the ANACS Niche

Since ANACS represents a smaller market segment, dealers may be more willing to negotiate on price. The company representative explained their focus: “We aren’t really trying to get super high-end coins in our holders… That niche is less expensive coins like the OP’s, who wants to have his coins reliably graded and slabbed but doesn’t want to spend as much as it would take to get the coins into PCGS, NGC, or CAC slabs.”

Bundle Purchases

When buying multiple coins from the same dealer, negotiate better prices for the entire purchase rather than individual coins. This approach is particularly effective at coin shows where dealers prefer moving multiple items.

Consider Raw Coins for Submission

Great start! I like sets with challenging guardrails, in this case the modern ANACS holders. It may be worth looking for raw examples and submitting for grading.

Finding raw coins and submitting them to ANACS can often be more cost-effective than buying already-certified examples, especially if you have grading skills.

Raw vs. Slabbed: Making the Right Choice

The decision between buying raw coins or already slabbed ANACS coins depends on several factors:

Advantages of Raw Coins

• Lower initial cost
• Opportunity for discovery (finding undergraded coins)
• Ability to choose specific eye appeal
• Potential for better overall value when submitting

Advantages of Slabbed Coins

• Immediate authentication and grading
• Easier resale in the future
• No waiting period for grading results
• Clear grade designation for building a consistent set

Strategic Approach

Many successful collectors use a hybrid approach. As one collector shared, “I have a set of business strikes with most of them raw in a Dansco album and just three of the ‘keys’ in NGC plastic.” For ANACS sets specifically, consider slabbing key dates and raw coins for common dates where you can better control quality and cost.

Building Your Strategy

Based on the collective wisdom from experienced collectors, here’s a recommended strategy for building your ANACS Washington Quarter set:

Start with Affordable Dates

Begin with common dates in mid-range grades. These provide the foundation for your set while you learn the market and develop your eye for quality.

Focus on Consistency

One collector chose ANACS specifically “to challenge myself to have an extra consistent set.” Maintain consistent grading standards throughout your collection, whether that means focusing on MS65 coins or building a high-grade MS66+ set.

Plan for Key Dates

Save funds for the key dates (1932-D, 1932-S, and 1936-D). These will likely require the largest portion of your collecting budget. Consider AU grades for these dates if budget is a concern, as some collectors note that higher AU coins can be nearly as attractive as low MS examples at a fraction of the cost.

Consider Your Timeline

Building a complete set takes time. As one collector noted about their business strike set, “It took me six years to finish my set of those.” Set realistic expectations and enjoy the journey rather than rushing to complete the collection.

Conclusion

The ANACS Washington Quarter set offers collectors a unique opportunity to build a meaningful, complete series at an accessible price point. By understanding where to buy, recognizing red flags, mastering negotiation techniques, and making informed decisions about raw versus slabbed coins, you can build a high-quality collection without overpaying.

Remember that the collecting journey is as valuable as the destination. The forum discussions reveal a community of collectors who find joy in the hunt, satisfaction in the consistency of their sets, and pride in building something unique. Whether you’re just starting your ANACS Washington Quarter journey or looking to refine your existing collection, the strategies outlined here will help you make smarter buying decisions and avoid common pitfalls.

Happy collecting, and may your search for that perfect ANACS Washington Quarter be both successful and enjoyable!

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