I am on the market for a Draped Bust Large Cent in XF condition. I have been scanning ebay for awhile now and most there have issues/details that I don't want to acquire. I got outbid by $20+ at the last second on this ebay item that was right up my alley (but was streching my budget!): Item number: 130201086065 Does anyone have any advice on who I should be contacting to find a similarly conditioned coin, preferably raw? I have a feeling that if I go to a specialist they will charge me maximum pricing. What dealers at the shows should I be on the lookout for (any at Central States show)? Like everything else, it seems nice type coins are skyrocketing right now. Thanks for your thoughts!
http://www.mcintoshcoins.com/index.html email this guy, he's a good dealer, and can probably find what you are looking for.
This dealer is at a lot of the Utah shows. I've bought from him in the past, at least sign up for his inventory list to be sent to you. I have bought mine from guy who's website is www.butternut.org he was at a local show. His online list is a little hard to look at, but his coins are great, but you'll pay for quality ones. He has a great return policy, well at least at the shows he does. Good luck P.S. I have also had these people recommended to me, www.earlycents.com and www.earlycoppercoins.com
That was a nice early copper cent. But don't despair because there are others out there just like it, if not better.
Catbert, I have purchased both my 1/2 cent coins and other early coppers from butternut that Tater mentioned (for a type set). He was helpful and understanding, took the time to teach the minor differences in a coin before he sold. The price is higher, but with the one on one time it is worth it. I have only spent a couple hundred and he still remembers me three years later.
You have gotten great advice so far. Not much I can add, except be patient and look at a lot of coins (preferaby in-hand) before buying one...Mike
I wouldn't use Ebay for the type of purchase you are looking for. It might also be a good idea to buy it slabbed.
Buying coin, Hi Catbert, Don't forget that the coin in the picture the dealer on ebay posted may not be the exact coin he/she will send. Not all of them are adhering to the 'must notify if it is a stock' photo rule. Also, I will not buy from someone who cannot post a clear enough picture to judge its condition, or someone who when you try to enlarge the picture it comes out the same size as the thumbnail picture. Then there is the other side of the coin, many do not show that. I have found one person who has sent exactly the coin in the picture. Amazing! If you can't find the exact coin you want then keep searching and it will find you. Good luck. jeankay
I also use http://www.largecents.net/forsale.php. You can always email Tom Deck who runs the sight. Like others he do his best to help you. And yes with a dealer that knows what they have, you will probably pay a premium. I think it is worth it sometimes - no guessing what you will really get like with an auction. And as mentioned - patience and you will find the correct coin that makes you happy.
Ya the guy can tell some stories. Ya learned a ton from him at the show and not only does he have a lot of knowledge he'll share it with you. You'll always pay a little extra in early coppers for eye appeal.
You should also consider seeking out Doug Brid -- another of the EAC dealers who doesn't mind at all talking with collectors and sharing his experiences.
p.s. and please don't EVER buy a coin without a return privilege (edited to add: or abililty to see in-hand, such as at a show or shop) -- copper coins can look quite different in photographs than in real life, and you should be sure to spend your hard earned money on a coin that suits you in-hand. Respectfully....Mike
Here's one more suggestion. Find a few folks you respect on these forums, and send them pictures/links to coins you are considering. I think you will find just about anyone will give you their opinion if you ask for it. While they may be limited to only a photo to judge the coin, there are a number of folks on these forums I look to for advice when considering a purchase, and I know I've learned a lot from these discussions, so please consider it as you continue your search. And a prediction... You will make mistakes. Try to be sure they are not costly early in your numismatic travels. Respectfully submitted only hoping my comments will help...Mike
p.s. for a nice coin, you will likely "overpay". Good coins are rarely cheap. To find a cheap nice draped bust large cent in XF is a rare bird indeed. The key is to know what a "good" coin is before you buy, and this is knowledge not easily garnered except through experience (and forums like these).
