Smart Buying Guide: How to Buy Washington Born Virginia Collis Restrikes Without Getting Ripped Off

Understanding the Washington Born Virginia Collis Restrikes

If you’re looking to add this to your collection, you need a strategy to get the best deal. The Washington Born Virginia Collis restrikes represent one of the most intriguing stories in American numismatics – a modern recreation of a 1792 Washington medal that has captured collector interest for decades. Created by Albert Collis in 1959 using a transfer die, these restrikes were produced in multiple metals with varying rarity levels that directly impact their current market value.

Where to Buy Collis Restrikes

The most reliable sources for acquiring Collis restrikes include established coin dealers, major auction houses, and reputable online marketplaces. Based on historical sales data, these pieces have appeared at venues like Bowers & Merena, with notable appearances in their 1986 sale where multiple examples were offered. Northeast Numismatics has also handled these pieces, as evidenced by collector reports of silver specimens purchased there a decade ago.

For copper examples, which represent the bulk of surviving restrikes (5,019 minted), you’ll find them more readily available through online platforms and dealer inventories. Silver specimens are considerably scarcer at just 22 minted, making them primarily available through high-end auctions and specialized dealers. The gold, platinum, and lead examples are exceptionally rare – with only 7 gold, 1 platinum, and 1 lead piece reportedly struck – and would require monitoring major auction results or establishing relationships with top-tier dealers.

Red Flags to Watch For

Authentication is critical when purchasing Collis restrikes. The most significant red flag is any piece being offered as something other than what it is – these are restrikes from 1959, not original 1792 medals. Some unscrupulous sellers might attempt to misrepresent the age or significance of these pieces.

Another concern is altered or damaged examples. Since these were struck using a transfer die, any signs of unusual wear patterns, tooling marks, or inconsistencies with known examples should raise suspicion. The copper examples, being the most common, are sometimes found in damaged condition but priced as if they were pristine.

Be wary of sellers who cannot provide provenance or who are vague about the piece’s history. Given the documented mintage figures and known appearances in major collections, legitimate sellers should be able to discuss the piece’s background knowledgeably.

Negotiating Tips for Collectors

When negotiating for Collis restrikes, knowledge is your greatest asset. Understanding the relative rarity of each metal type gives you leverage – copper examples should command significantly less than silver, which in turn should be priced far below the ultra-rare gold or platinum pieces.

For copper specimens, which appear with some regularity, don’t hesitate to compare prices across multiple dealers. The market has shown these can trade for surprisingly modest sums – with some copper examples selling for around $100 with free shipping, representing exceptional value for a piece with this historical connection.

Silver examples command premium prices but offer better long-term appreciation potential due to their scarcity. When negotiating for silver specimens, reference recent auction results and PCGS population reports to establish fair market value. The fact that PCGS now shows a population of 1 for silver specimens indicates these pieces are being properly documented and authenticated, which strengthens your negotiating position when dealing with slabbed examples.

Raw vs. Slabbed: Making the Right Choice

The decision between raw and slabbed Collis restrikes depends on your collecting goals and expertise. Raw examples offer the advantage of lower acquisition cost and the ability to examine the piece directly, but they carry authentication risks that can be problematic for less experienced collectors.

Slabbed examples, particularly those certified by PCGS or NGC, provide authentication assurance and often command premium prices. The recent appearance of a PCGS-certified silver specimen demonstrates growing market acceptance of professionally graded examples. For the ultra-rare gold, platinum, and lead pieces, slabbing would be virtually essential given their extraordinary value and the catastrophic financial impact of purchasing a counterfeit.

Copper examples present an interesting middle ground – many collectors prefer them raw due to their relative abundance and lower value, making slabbing costs less justifiable. However, even for copper pieces, slabbing can enhance resale potential and provide authentication for future buyers.

Market Analysis and Investment Potential

The Collis restrike market shows interesting dynamics based on metal composition and rarity. Copper examples, while the most affordable entry point, offer limited appreciation potential due to their high mintage. These serve better as type pieces for collectors building a comprehensive Washingtonia collection.

Silver specimens represent the sweet spot for collectors seeking both rarity and reasonable acquisition cost. With only 22 struck and growing collector awareness, these pieces have shown steady appreciation. The fact that major grading services are now certifying these indicates maturing market recognition.

The extreme rarities – particularly the single platinum and lead pieces, along with the seven gold examples – represent the pinnacle of Collis restrike collecting. These pieces would likely only trade at major auctions or through private treaty between serious collectors. Their value is largely determined by the specific piece’s condition and provenance rather than any standardized market.

Authentication and Verification

Given the historical significance and varying values of Collis restrikes, proper authentication is crucial. The original transfer die, now housed in the ANA museum, provides a reference point for examining striking characteristics. Authentic pieces should show consistent details matching the known die characteristics.

For high-value specimens, consider professional authentication even for raw pieces. Many reputable dealers offer authentication services, and for five-figure transactions, the cost of authentication is negligible compared to the purchase price.

Pay particular attention to the uniface nature of these restrikes – both sides should show the same design elements, and any deviation from this characteristic should be investigated thoroughly.

Building a Complete Collection

For collectors aiming to acquire one of each metal type, patience and capital are essential. The copper pieces can be acquired relatively quickly, but the silver may take months or years to find at the right price. The gold, platinum, and lead examples might require decades of market monitoring and substantial financial resources.

Consider joining specialized numismatic forums and networks where serious collectors discuss these pieces. The original forum thread that inspired this guide demonstrates how collector communities can provide real-time market intelligence and trading opportunities that aren’t available through conventional channels.

Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Collis Restrikes

The Washington Born Virginia Collis restrikes occupy a unique position in American numismatics – they’re neither original colonial issues nor simple modern commemoratives, but rather a fascinating bridge between historical tribute and contemporary collecting. Their documented mintage figures, connection to the original 1792 medals, and the story of Albert Collis’s recreation add layers of historical interest that transcend their intrinsic metal value.

Whether you’re acquiring your first copper example or pursuing the ultimate gold rarity, understanding the market dynamics, authentication requirements, and collecting strategies outlined in this guide will help you make informed decisions. The Collis restrikes represent not just a collecting opportunity, but a tangible connection to George Washington’s legacy and the early days of American medal production – making them a worthy addition to any serious collection.

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