Awhile back, I ordered a complete set of Washington quarters (1941-1964) from an online vendor. The coins were advertized as BU. When I received the coins, I looked them over carefully. Many of the coins were worn down. Although they looked nice and shiny, they lacked the mint luster associated with BU grade coins. I came to the conclusion that these coins were cleaned and not in BU grade. I returned the coins and they vendor said that he did spot only one cleaned coin. From that point on, I collected only certified coins. Now getting to the point... I want to purchase a set of BU Roosevelt dimes (1946-1964). I saw a set of BU dimes on eBay and asked the seller if the coins have been cleaned. The seller responded to my inquiry by banning me from purchasing any of his listed eBay items. I guess his coins were cleaned. Although buying a set of certified coins guarantees authenticity (for the most part), it is much more expensive and very time consuming. I can spot a fake BU coin from the lack of mint luster and even tiny scratch marks visible under magnification, but I cannot tell if the coin was dipped to remove any toning. Can someone provide me with any tips on buying complete sets such as the silver BU Roosevelt dimes with no cleaning?
"Dipping" and "cleaning" generally mean two different things in numismatics with "dipping" acceptable to most folks most of the time and "cleaning" viewed much more negatively. Additionally, dipped coins are found by the tens of thousands in certified holders since this is such an historically accepted practice. As for a BU set of Roosevelt dimes; these can generally be very easily found already made and in albums.
Well that's the point that I am trying to make. I already had a bad experience buying a set of BU Washington quarters in a Dansco album that was full of worn out coins that were cleaned. I have seen many sets of BU Roosevelt dimes from online vendors. Because of my bad experience, I don't trust them. I don't know if this is allowed on this forum, could someone recommend an honest dealer?
https://www.cointalk.com/directory/ Here is a directory of coin dealers, including 3 internet dealers that are members. Many internet sellers know exactly what they have and can price accordingly. A real set of nice BU coins will cost more from a good dealer because that is what BU coins will cost. You might try for the silver set first and then add the others individually. Just a suggestion. Welcome to the forum! Jim
How you phrase your question to a dealer may determine what kind of response you receive. Just because one has blocked you doesn't necessarily mean that he is dishonest. It might also mean that a reputable dealer has become fed up with buyers who demean him. You need to be very careful how you word any comment. If you think I'm crazy, just read through some of the threads in our forums. Misunderstandings happen all of the time. Chris
My tip for buying a complete set is to not try to buy a complete set. The opportunity to do so where every coin is a problem-free BU is rare. Order one online and most coins will be cleaned AUs. Put together a Dansco from decent BUs in 2x2s. Much more rewarding. If you do get that rare chance to buy a nice BU set somehow, it'll probably be hard to pass up.
I agree with @messydesk . IMO, the best way to buy this set is one piece at a time. The benefits are that you get to have fun while searching for coins that meet your requirements. The down side is that it will take you more time. IMO, you need to ask yourself what you want out of this set? Do you just want to say you own one? IF yes, than why do you care about the coins conditions? The best sets are hand assembled.
