This subject gets mentioned several times here, so I thought that I would offer a dealers opinion on this subject. When you visit a coin shop or show, along with your want list and price guide, be sure to allow yourself plenty of time. Too often collectors will ask for a particular coin or date, and then if the quality is good, they negotiate a price. With the recent thread about Mint and Proof sets, GDJMSP made some very good comments about cherry picking for quality. Not all sets are equal. The early strikes on a given die will produce a much better strike. Early proofs exhibit the most cameo appearence. When dealers play the crack out game, we search through hundreds or thousands of sets first looking at the eye appeal of the coin. This should be done with the naked eye. Find the coin that stands out of the set. After you have a handful of sets put aside, then bring out your loupe to judge strike. All gem coins gain grading numbers by eye appeal. A beautiful MS 65 coin will fetch more money than an ugly MS-66. In todays market, beautifully toned coins are making national headlines when bought and sold. The strike is often not the reason for such prices. For Mint sets, look for the coins that give the proof like quality. These coins should reflect the light at every angle giving a full cartwheel effect. Look for any break in the luster. Be sure to check the rim of the coin. Often overlooked, the rim should also be free of marks. The Mint uses machines to place the coins in the holders, and often they leave their fingerprint on the rim. Most dealers do not mind when a customer cherry picks a nice set. When doing your search, ask your dealer to help you in your quest. Many times here on this forum, I have suggested that you make your dealer your friend. You will be pleasantly surprised at how well a dealer will take care of a good customer. If they know that you are searching for top quality, they can help you in finding it.
Thank you Jody, it is nice to be back. Will be at the ANA show this coming week, but hope to come back with many good coins, and a few good stories to share.
ND...I wanted to say welcome back as well, your input and wisdom has been noticably absent around here. You were missed. Have a good time next week at the show, can't wait to hear your report.
