The Truth About Coin Photography: Why Some Sellers ‘Put Lipstick on a Pig’

Introduction

Think you need a dealer to find that perfect coin? Think again. Here’s what to look for when searching through circulation or bulk lots – no middleman required.

The coin collecting community has been buzzing with frustration over a common issue: altered coin photography. As one collector recently lamented, “I’m getting tired of looking at chocolate cents and gun metal grey nickels and trying to guess what they really look like.” This sentiment echoes across forums and marketplaces, where the gap between expectation and reality has become a significant concern for both buyers and sellers.

The Photography Problem

The heart of the issue lies in how coins are presented online. Many sellers, particularly on platforms like eBay, have developed a habit of enhancing their coin images beyond simple clarity improvements. These alterations range from color adjustments that make coins appear more lustrous than they actually are, to complete image manipulations that misrepresent the coin’s true condition.

One frustrated collector noted, “The more flashy the less trust. Anyone else feel the same, guess I’m not a trusting soul.” This distrust is well-founded, as experienced collectors recognize that altered images often mask imperfections or artificially enhance a coin’s appearance.

Why Sellers Alter Images

The motivation behind these alterations is straightforward: sellers believe enhanced images lead to higher sales. As one forum member observed, “I’m guessing they do it because it works on enough people. They’re missing out on some potential buyers but they must be finding some or they wouldn’t do it.”

However, this short-term gain strategy often backfires with knowledgeable collectors. “Alterations of coins and manipulation of images are a big turnoff for knowledgable bidders,” noted another collector. “But there are many bidders on eBay who don’t know better and who bury themselves in their purchases.”

The Impact on the Hobby

The practice of altering coin images has broader implications for the numismatic community. As one collector stated, “To the detriment of the hobby imo.” This sentiment reflects a growing concern that deceptive practices erode trust within the community and potentially drive away serious collectors.

The issue extends beyond just individual transactions. When buyers consistently receive coins that don’t match their online appearance, it creates a ripple effect of skepticism that affects all online coin sales, even those from reputable sellers who provide accurate images.

What to Look For When Roll Hunting

For those engaged in roll hunting and cherry picking, understanding these photographic deceptions is crucial. Here are key indicators to watch for:

• Unnaturally uniform color: If all coins in a listing appear to have the same perfect toning or luster, be suspicious.
• Excessive contrast: While some contrast can help highlight details, extreme contrast often masks imperfections.
• Missing details: If you can’t see certain areas of the coin clearly, the seller might be hiding flaws.
• Consistency across listings: If a seller’s coins all look remarkably similar despite being different dates and mints, question the authenticity of the images.

Best Practices for Buyers

Experienced collectors recommend several strategies to avoid disappointment:

“Buying a coin from any pic is just an educated guess. IMHO the only way to buy a coin is to be able to view in hand. Or have a verbal description and opinion from a trusted friend or dealer who has seen the coin in hand.”

For those who must buy online, consider these approaches:

• Stick to sellers with clear return policies
• Look for multiple angles of each coin
• Ask sellers for additional photos if the listing seems suspicious
• Build relationships with trusted sellers over time

The Value of Authentic Representation

Some sellers maintain that their images accurately represent their coins. “The coins i list look pretty much the same on my monitor as they do in hand. I have no clue what they look like on your monitor,” one seller explained. This highlights the importance of viewing coins in person whenever possible.

For those who can’t examine coins physically, third-party grading services (TPGs) and certification (like CAC) provide an additional layer of assurance. “Dare to say it, TPGs and CAC go a long way in providing at least a minimum amount of comfort for transactions based on photos only,” noted one collector.

Conclusion

The practice of altering coin images represents a significant challenge for the modern coin collecting community. While some sellers may see it as a harmless marketing tactic, the long-term consequences for trust and authenticity in the hobby are concerning.

For collectors, the key is developing a discerning eye and understanding that not all that glitters online is gold. Whether you’re roll hunting through circulation finds, browsing bulk lots, or searching estate sales, remember that the most valuable skill in cherry picking is the ability to see beyond the surface presentation to the true nature of the coin.

As the hobby continues to evolve in the digital age, maintaining standards of authenticity and transparency will be crucial for preserving the integrity and enjoyment of coin collecting for future generations.

Related Resources

You might also find these related articles helpful:

• Smart Buying Guide: How to Buy Coins Without Getting Ripped Off – Navigating Today’s Coin Marketplace If you’re looking to add this coin to your collection, you need a smart …
• Ebay Sellers: A Coin Ring Artisan’s Perspective on Metal Quality and Crafting Potential – Introduction: The Artisan’s Dilemma Every coin tells a story, but not every coin is meant to become a ring. As a c…
• The Collector’s Guide to Proper Coin Storage and Preservation – Why Proper Preservation Matters As a collector, I’ve witnessed far too many valuable pieces ruined by improper cle…