The Hidden Value in Your Coins: Spotting Rare Errors That Could Be Worth Thousands

Introduction: The Devil’s in the Details

Most people overlook the tiny details that can transform a common item into a rarity worth thousands. As an error coin hunter, I’ve learned that the difference between a standard coin and a valuable collectible often comes down to microscopic variations in the minting process. Whether you’re dealing with die cracks, doubled dies, or subtle mint mark variations, knowing what to look for can transform your collecting experience.

Understanding the Resubmission Process for Variety Attribution

One of the most common questions I receive from collectors involves the process of adding variety attribution to already certified coins. Let me walk you through what happens when you want to upgrade your coin’s label with variety information.

The CAC Resticker Process

When you have a CAC-approved coin and want to add variety attribution, you’ll need to go through a specific process. As experienced collectors know, CAC (Certified Acceptance Corporation) provides an additional layer of authentication and quality assessment for already-graded coins. The process isn’t as simple as just updating the label, but it’s manageable with the right approach.

“Yes you would need to submit for resticker not for new evaluation from CAC.”

This fundamental principle guides the entire process. You’re not asking CAC to re-evaluate the coin’s grade or authenticity – you’re simply requesting that they apply their sticker to a coin that now has additional variety attribution.

Preserving Your Certification Number

One critical detail that often gets overlooked is the certification number. As long as you maintain the same certification number, the process becomes much more straightforward. The certification number serves as your coin’s unique identifier throughout its life in the marketplace.

“As long as you keep the same cert#, you can get it restickered.”

However, there’s an important caveat to consider. If your variety attribution requires a new certification number from the grading service, you’ll need to go through a more complex process involving reapproval from CAC.

Working with Grading Services for Variety Attribution

The journey to proper variety attribution typically begins with your chosen third-party grading service. In the United States, PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) and NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) are the two primary options for most collectors.

PCGS Reholder Process

When working with PCGS specifically, the process for adding variety attribution while maintaining your certification number is relatively straightforward. You would submit your coin for what’s called a “reholder” with variety attribution.

“If you submit the coin to PCGS for a reholder with Variety attribution, the cert number will not change.”

This is crucial information for collectors who want to maintain continuity in their collection records and avoid potential complications with CAC restickering.

Documentation and Photography

Throughout this process, documentation becomes your best friend. High-quality photographs of your coin, both before and after any grading service work, can prevent numerous potential issues.

“Make sure you take good photos of the coin as it is now to avoid any issues with getting a new sticker.”

I cannot stress this enough – clear, well-lit photographs showing all relevant details of your coin can save you significant time and potential frustration later in the process.

Risk Management in the Resubmission Process

While the process of adding variety attribution is generally straightforward, there are some risks to be aware of. The most significant concern involves potential damage during the resubmission process.

“And be aware there is some (very small but some) risk that if the coin is damaged during the TPG resubmit CAC can decline to resticker.”

This risk, while small, is real and worth considering. Professional grading and certification services handle coins with extreme care, but the mechanical processes involved in removing and replacing holders do carry some inherent risk.

Understanding Variety Recognition

Not all varieties are created equal in the eyes of certification services. Some varieties are well-established and widely recognized, while others might be considered too minor for official attribution.

“What variety? It may be a minor variety they don’t recognize.”

This highlights an important reality in numismatics: just because you’ve identified what you believe to be a variety doesn’t guarantee that certification services will recognize it. Research and documentation become crucial at this stage.

Communication with Certification Services

Throughout the process, maintaining open communication with both your grading service and CAC can prevent misunderstandings and complications. If issues arise, such as a new certification number being assigned, being proactive in your communication can help resolve situations smoothly.

“If the coin comes back with a new cert number provide the images and the reason why the coin had to get a new cert number and CAC should work with you pretty closely.”

This advice underscores the importance of transparency and documentation throughout the entire process.

Practical Steps for Collectors

Step 1: Research Your Variety

Before beginning any submission process, thoroughly research your suspected variety. Consult variety attribution guides, online resources, and experienced collectors to confirm that your variety is recognized and documented.

Step 2: Document Everything

Take comprehensive photographs of your coin from multiple angles, showing any features that support your variety attribution. Document the coin’s current certification information, including the certification number, grade, and any existing labels.

Step 3: Contact PCGS or NGC

Reach out to your chosen grading service to discuss your plans for variety attribution. Confirm whether the variety you’ve identified is something they attribute and whether it can be added without changing your certification number.

Step 4: Submit for Reholder

If everything checks out, submit your coin for a reholder with variety attribution. Include all your documentation and be clear about your desire to maintain the same certification number.

Step 5: Submit to CAC

Once you receive your coin back with the variety attribution and the same certification number, submit it to CAC for restickering. Include your documentation showing why the coin required a new holder and how the certification number remained the same.

Conclusion: The Value of Proper Attribution

The process of adding variety attribution to an already-certified coin requires patience, documentation, and attention to detail. However, the potential rewards – both in terms of personal satisfaction and potential value appreciation – make it worthwhile for many collectors.

Remember that not all varieties will be recognized by certification services, and there are small but real risks involved in the resubmission process. However, with proper research, documentation, and communication, you can navigate this process successfully and potentially unlock additional value in your collection.

As error coin hunters, we know that the smallest details can make the biggest differences. Whether you’re dealing with a subtle die crack, a dramatic doubled die, or a rare mint mark variation, proper attribution and certification can help ensure that your discoveries receive the recognition they deserve in the numismatic marketplace.

Related Resources

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