After a tremendous amount of time learning and reading about various aspects of coin collecting, I took my first step into what I hope to be a long and slow marathon approach to my eventual collection. I focused hard on what I would like to complete and yet be obtainable for a first timer. I came to the conclusion that as opposed to collecting coins for the shear numbers of them, I would take the approach of lesser coins with higher quality from a series that I liked. Eventually, I settled upon the 2.5 Indian Quarter Eagles in mostly MS64&65's except for the 2 keys. After searching long and hard for the 1st example of this set, I found a 1925-D NGC MS65 that had great luster eye appeal, very distinct mint mark, and strike. Although this coin is quite common by date, it becomes scarce at at gem and higher with only 40 NGC finer. Best part about it.......I got it for 8% back of bid, according to the most recent graysheet. This forum provides alot of good info for the novice and the research does payoff. I'll post pics when I learn how to photo a coin.
Sounds like you started off right. Did your homework; thought it out; made an informed decision. Congrats.
Truly, a sophisticated and insightful choice! This is a great series, priced nicely, not often pursued. It has some history. Executive Order 6102 allowed the collecting of gold coins with numismatic value: "...gold coins having a recognized special value to collectors, of rare and unusual coins." Roosevelt's Secretary of the Treasury was William H. Woodin, a numismatist who co-authored the first standard reference on U.S. pattern coins. Clarifications of 6102 limited the numbers of each kind of gold coin allowed to a collector (up to six, as I recall)-- except for the Quarter Eagle. It was felt -- we believe -- that as a small, convenient coin, the $2.50 was too likely to be hoarded for commercial purposes, rather than collecting. So, your coins represent an exception to the exception. Also, if I may, you refer to two keys. One is the 1911-D. It is not out of your reach, being only 10 times more expensive than the run of the mill, so you can treat yourself to it in about the same time frame in which you would buy 10. But what is the other key? It is not in the Red Book.
mmarotta, you are correct there is only one key to the series (1911-d). But the 1914 in a MS64 becomes a (key to me) thanks for the kind words
very nice story to hear about someone smartly not rushing in... if you bought on an online auction can you post the images of the coin used on the website, then post your coins later on when you get pics, thanks and congrats
Well-done and a nice job in thinking through your purchase. I wish I had done the same when I bought my first coin a few years ago. Or my second... or my third...
Congrats, I love that coin , I got the 1925d a couple of years ago but still need to get it graded. Still learning about the grading companies & which one I want to use & if I should join up or go to a dealer rep. for one of the grading companies. I love mine & will get the $ 10 coin some day.
Wow a lot better than my first coin lol! Good choice. Read this article it's really helpful for coin photography. http://www.coinimaging.com/photography.html