I recently got back into coin collecting after having sold my prior collection about 20 years ago. The biggest change I've noticed is on ebay. Almost all the better grade coins being offered seem to have been slabbed. When I first started on ebay, there were a lot of really nice uncertified coins being sold or auctioned on ebay. Now, many of the uncertified, so-called uncirculated coins I see on ebay are either overgraded, cleaned/ polished, or photographed under colored lights to hide defects. In addition, when I first joined ebay close to its inception, there were a lot of ordinary collectors buying and selling, now it seems to be dominated by dealers. Agree or disagree?
I agree. Its changed alot, and for the most part, not for the better. But still some bargains and even diamonds can be found. Just takes alot of patience.
Though I do sell on ebay I keep it really simple. No fancy graphics, trick lighting, colored type to blind someone. Just simple high res. scans for the most part and a simple description. Keepin' it tight.
There's a lot more counterfeits than it used to be. Some whinge over the prices but I can still find bargains and rarities from time to time.
The problem is that many collectors are not very educated, so they either get ripped off or buy slabbed coins to stay safe. I still regularly buy off of eBay though. Let's face it, the inventory is pretty good. Picked up this little beauty a few hours ago.
I have bought many slabbed coins, before and now as well. For coins that could be considered 'pricey', buying certified makes perfect sense. However, when trying to put a set together, unslabbed coins are my preference because they're easier to display. It's the quality raw coins that have become difficult to find on ebay, although there are still some.
I should have added that ebay is my go to place also. I live in an area where there are coin shows now and then, and there are a number of coins stores within easy driving distance....but there's nothing better than sitting at home and finding a deal on ebay, LOL.
I'm an album collector as well and just crack out the coins that I buy that are slabbed. Some people think that I'm crazy for doing this, but it's not too hard to get them reholdered if I want to sell or trade something. https://www.cointalk.com/threads/i-have-a-crack-problem-i-admit-it.258223/page-3#post-2086625
