Why Cherrypickers Guides Are Selling for So Much: My Numismatic Insights

I was browsing eBay the other day, looking to sell some spare coin references, and I nearly dropped my loupe when I saw the prices for Cherrypickers Guides—some copies are fetching hundreds! As a longtime collector, I had to dig into why these once-affordable books are now commanding such high premiums, and what it means for our hobby.

The Shocking Price Surge

I remember picking up my own copies for around $40 each when they were new, but today, sold listings show them going for well over $100, even for used editions. It’s not just hype; this scarcity-driven inflation has me reevaluating my own surplus stash. After all, in numismatics, rarity often dictates value, and with the guides out of print, demand has clearly outpaced supply.

Why Are They Out of Print?

I’ve followed the whispers about new editions for years, but it seems like a never-ending cycle of delays. From what I’ve gathered, tentative release dates have been pushed back repeatedly since at least 2019, with promises like an August 2023 launch still up in the air. This disorganization at the publisher level means no fresh stock is hitting the market, turning existing copies into hot commodities. It reminds me of how coin series can dry up overnight—patience is key, but in this case, it’s frustrating collectors who rely on updated references.

Collector Trends and Market Shifts

In my chats with local dealers, I’ve noticed a broader shift: collectors are moving away from modern issues and diving deep into classics like Bust coins and Barber dimes. This resurgence in interest for older varieties means more people are hunting for reliable guides, amplifying the demand for Cherrypickers. It’s a classic case of supply and demand; when a resource becomes essential for cherrypicking rare errors, its value soars. If you’re holding onto a copy, now might be the time to consider its role in your collection or as a potential trade asset.

Behind the Scenes: Publishing Woes

Delving into the reasons for the delays, I learned that compiling a new edition isn’t just about research—it’s tangled in contributor disputes and copyright headaches. For instance, some experts want royalties for their variety discoveries, but as I see it, you can’t trademark a doubled die or repunched date; anyone can document it themselves. Plus, valuing unpublished varieties often relies on wild guesses, which adds uncertainty. This messiness has stalled progress, making the existing guides even more precious.

Should You Invest in a Copy?

If you’re thinking about buying or selling one, here’s my practical advice based on experience:

• Hold if you have spares: With no new editions imminent, prices could climb higher—I’m keeping my signed copies as a hedge.
• Buy cautiously: Check sold listings on eBay to avoid overpaying, and inspect for condition; a well-preserved guide holds more value.
• Consider alternatives: For everyday use, online resources like variety databases are often free and up-to-date, reducing the need for physical books.

Remember, grading matters—look for guides with minimal wear to maximize resale potential.

My Take on Alternatives

Personally, I haven’t cracked open my Cherrypickers Guide in years, relying instead on digital tools for quick searches. While the guide was invaluable for newbies like me back in the day, with its detailed photos and rarity ratings, the internet now offers instant access to similar info. Still, there’s nostalgia in holding a physical reference, and for serious variety hunters, having a hard copy can be a badge of dedication. In the end, whether you’re buying or selling, it’s all about balancing cost with utility in this ever-evolving hobby.

So, what’s next? I’ll be watching the market closely and maybe even listing one of my extras—after all, in coin collecting, timing is everything!