What a Disappointment! My Eye-Opening Hunt Through 2023 Kennedy Halves

I recently decided to dive into a mint sewn bag of 2023 Kennedy half dollars, hoping to uncover some exciting errors or varieties. As a coin collector, I love the thrill of the hunt, but this time, my initial excitement quickly turned to frustration—only to reveal some valuable numismatic lessons.

My Unexpected Findings in the Bag

After eagerly opening the bag, the first coin I examined had a striking die crack running from the E in ‘LIBERTY’ to the rim. I thought, ‘Oh boy, this could be the start of something great!’ But alas, out of all 200 coins, that was the only die crack I found. Talk about a bummer. However, I did stumble upon one intriguing error: a damaged coin where it looked like a peeled piece of metal got struck into the surface between the T and Y of ‘LIBERTY.’ At first, I dismissed it as damage, but I soon learned it was actually a mint error known as a rim burr.

Learning About Rim Burrs and Mint Errors

Discovering that rim burr was a game-changer for me. For those unfamiliar, a rim burr occurs when a piece of metal from the planchet or during striking gets embedded into the coin, creating a unique imperfection. It’s a genuine mint error, not just post-mint damage, which adds a layer of collectibility. I found it fascinating how such flaws can turn a seemingly ordinary coin into a hidden gem. This experience taught me to look closer at anomalies—what might appear disappointing at first glance could actually be a rare find.

Practical Advice on Grading and Value

Now, the big question: should you slab a coin like this? Based on my research and insights from the community, here’s a balanced approach:

• Consider the costs: Slabbing involves certification fees and shipping, which might not be worth it for common errors unless they’re exceptionally pronounced. For my rim burr, I weighed the expense against potential market value—it’s unlikely to recoup costs if it’s minor.
• Evaluate rarity: Errors like rim burrs aren’t extremely rare in modern coins, so unless it’s dramatic or on a key date, holding off on grading might be smarter. I’m leaning toward keeping it raw for now to enjoy it in my collection.
• Focus on enjoyment: Sometimes, the joy is in the discovery itself. Even with only two errors in the bag, this hunt was more successful than my past attempts, reminding me that batting averages in error-finding are often low but rewarding.

Broader Collecting Insights and Market Realities

This adventure got me thinking about the bigger picture in coin collecting. For instance, I recalled how scarcity drives prices—like with higher-grade coins such as MS-64 or better 1963-D halves, where rarity makes them pricier on the Greysheet. It’s a reminder that not every roll or bag will yield top-tier finds, and that’s okay. Here are some tips I’ve embraced:

• Hunt smart: When searching mint bags, focus on key areas like rims and lettering for errors; die cracks and rim burrs often hide in plain sight.
• Manage expectations: Disappointment is part of the hobby, but every search teaches something new. Even a ‘bummer’ bag can yield educational gems.
• Appreciate the process: Coin collecting isn’t just about big scores—it’s about the stories and knowledge gained. This rim burr find, though small, enriched my understanding of minting flaws.

In the end, what started as a letdown transformed into a numismatic revelation. I feel better knowing I found not one, but two errors, and I’m inspired to keep hunting with a sharper eye. If you’ve had similar experiences, share your stories—it’s all part of what makes this hobby so engaging!