I like deep cameo proofs. They really highlight the features of the coin. The frosted devices and ultra buttery smooth fields really sets them off. I also like NGC slabs. They are a neat little contraption that holders the coin, has information posted on the slab, and each slab is serial numbered. While I don't specifically buy coins just for the slab, I don't see any harm in spending an extra dollar or two for the slab, it's one of the best holders for a coin. So, not only did I find a deep cameo proof $1 presidential coin, I found one in a NGC slab, for only $8, WITH shipping! These redbook for $15. http://www.ebay.com/itm/35050984303...X:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649#ht_4311wt_1037
I passed on one of these at my local coin shop. They were asking $5. Redbook is only a guide, just remember. The same with PCGS or NGC price guides. I got a 2009-S PF69 Ultra Cameo Roosevelt dime for $2 and the NGC price guide shows it to be $13.50 book value. Can I get anywhere near that? Nope. I had my doubts of getting my initial $2 back, but then traded it with my dad for a 1912 barber in VF condition.
I know redbook is just a guide, but they cost (I think) $5 from the mint in proof. Shipping, will cost around $2. So we are at $7, since I paid $8, that's only a buck for the slab. While I am at it, can you buy proof coins individually from the mint without any kind of case or holder?
If you are happy with your purchase then that is all that matters. Obviously you care a great deal about getting one for less than Red Book prices, so on this front you did good. But I wonder if this presidential series will have staying power. Many presidents are considered duds if they are even remembered. For example, other than possibly knowing that his nickname was 'Silent Cal', how many people know or care about the man or his presidency? And Andrew Johnson is pretty much remembered as only being able to be president because Lincoln was killed. That and his impeachment. I happen to think that Lincoln cents are loved not because the design is the greatest - many people would prefer more classical designs - but because Lincoln is and has been revered in our country and we respect that. And because collecting cents is just plain fun. There's something about copper cents that attracts. On another note - even though Red Book lists retail prices, sometimes they are just taking a stab in the dark, or guesstimate, if you will. I don't think the true value of any coin really can be determined without a number of years passing in order to calculate its availability in varying grade.
Yeah when I first started I use to gobble every thing up just because I thought it was a good deal. I would buy random moderns and poor grade old coins just because I thought I was getting a bargain. but then I found myself with a bunch of junk. now I keep a few coins in mind that I really want (usually old and rare) and I search or wait for the opportunity to buy the coin in the grade I want. I try to have some kind of direction in my collecting (which is subject to change at any time ) so I don't buy random coins. I try to look for only what I want. not whats cheap. Just my opinion! to each there own !
