Many folks realize that coin dealers can also be collectors, whether we collect coins, currency, exonumia or other materials. I happen to not only deal in coins full time, but also collect coins, which might make for unwanted competition for my clients. However, it is rare that I purchase a coin for my collection even though I travel to the major shows and do lot viewing for myself and others. At the recently concluded Central States show I was set up with njcoincrank and had the opportunity, after having chased the coin for a while, to purchase a piece that sang to me. There isn't much to write about it other than it's beautiful, I wanted to share it and I think the coin will be in my collection for many years to come.
Thank you. Yes, it is a proof. There is a single hairline scratch along the lower part of Ms. Liberty's jaw that was captured well in the images. It cannot be seen from all angles when viewing the coin, but is definitely there and kept the grade to a relatively affordable PCGS PR64CAM.
Very nice coin Tom. Yes, its tough for a dealer to be a collector. I am sure you are wise enough to know this, just never mention it to your customers. I had a dealer once who I was looking through his offerings. I was asking some questions, like "do you have any early Sassanid?" and the like, and with every question he had an answer like, "yeah, I bought two really nice ones a few months ago. They are in my personal collection, though, as I really like high grade, nice looking coins." Well don't we all? I walked away in disgust, and have never sat down again at his tables, though I see him around at shows. Point is, the customers want nice, high grade coins as well. Why do I wish to buy from someone who is going to cherrypick every coin I might want, just to sell me the dregs he doesn't care for? I would rather pay my money to a dealer who will give me a fair chance at nice coins that come into his possession. Like I said Tom, I know you are bright enough to know this, just thought I would share in case any other dealer who also collects is reading this. If you collect coins, don't brag about your nice coins to clients.
