Your First GTG Submission: A Beginner’s Guide to Flying Eagle & Indian Cent Eagle Eye Success

Just starting with coin grading? Let’s walk through your first submission together

Submitting your Flying Eagle or Indian Head Cent for grading might seem daunting at first. I remember staring at my 1858 coins, terrified of making a costly mistake. The good news? With the right approach, even complete beginners can navigate GTG submissions successfully. Let me share what I wish I’d known when I started.

Coin Grading Made Simple

GTG and EEPS Explained (Without the Jargon)

‘Guess the Grade’ (GTG) is simply estimating your coin’s condition before professionals evaluate it. The Eagle Eye Photo Seal (EEPS) takes this further by creating a high-resolution “visual ID card” for your coin. When I got my first EEPS certification, I was amazed at how those detailed photos captured every tiny detail.

Why This Matters for Your First Submission

Here’s what EEPS did for my early Flying Eagle Cent submissions:

• Gives you permanent proof of your coin’s current condition
• Provides trustworthy verification that puts buyers at ease
• Helps you spot details you might have missed yourself

Your First Submission: Step by Step

Preparing Your Coins Properly

When I prepped my first Indian Head Cent, I learned these three essential steps the hard way:

1. Surface Check: Use a 10x loupe to scan every millimeter (those hidden hairlines almost cost me my first EEPS!)
2. Light Play: Tilt your coin under a lamp – the way light dances reveals the true luster quality
3. Edge Exam: Run your fingernail gently around the rim to feel for any nicks or damage

The Paperwork That Boosts Your Success

I nearly submitted my 1858 Flying Eagle Cent without its variety documentation! Now I always:

• Research specific varieties using Longacre’s Ledger (my S-2 find added $300 in value)
• Include printed references with my submission
• Take smartphone photos from all angles first

Myths That Trip Up Beginners

“Higher Grade = Automatic EEPS Approval”

My shiny MS63 Flying Eagle Cent got rejected while a “lower” MS62 passed. Why? Because:

• EEPS cares more about surface quality than the number grade
• Even high-grade coins can have hidden issues
• Examiners want perfectly untouched surfaces

“Varieties Are Only for Experts”

Finding the S-2 variety on my 1858 cent proved this wrong! Start with these basics:

• Look for doubled letters or dates under magnification
• Study the distinctive feathers on Indian Head Cents
• Check known varieties for your specific year

Pro Tips for New Submitters

My Foolproof 3-Step Check

After multiple submissions, here’s what always works for me:

1. Surface Scan: Use a desk lamp at 45° to reveal hidden flaws
2. Quadrant Check: Divide your coin into sections and examine each slowly
3. Paperwork Proofread: Double-check every form – twice!

Package Like You’re Shipping Treasure

Here’s how I protect my coins after that nerve-wracking first mailing:



1. Each coin in its own archival plastic flip
2. Sandwich between two cardboard pieces with tape borders
3. Wrap in bubble cushioning (the big bubbles work best)
4. Ship with insurance and tracking


What My First Submission Taught Me

Looking back at my early successes (and mistakes!), here’s what matters most:

1. Focus on surface quality more than grade numbers
2. Good documentation reveals hidden value
3. 10 minutes of extra prep saves weeks of regret

Ready for Your Grading Adventure?

Submitting your first Flying Eagle or Indian Head Cent should be exciting, not intimidating. Start with one coin, follow these steps, and remember – every expert was once a beginner too. My first successful EEPS submission began with a common 1858 cent, and yours could be the next surprise success story. What will your first graded coin be?

Related Resources

You might also find these related articles helpful:

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