I took everyones advice and went out and bought the new Redbook and the Photograde book. They really do help that is for sure. I found out by comparing the pics that my nicest coin is a 1855o seated half with arrows, is a EF-40 valued at $115. I picked it up a year or two ago for $30. I know that $115 does not seem like a lot to some collectors but I am quite happy. Damn, now I am getting hooked big time.....this might be dangerous ! Cheers to everyone and thanks again for the advice !
It could well be dangerous. While the books are good to start with there is much, much more to learning to grade than reading a book. It takes years of experience and a great deal of practice. But you're on the right track
HI KERRY There is a lot of coin knowledge here at cointalk just ask and someone will do there best to help you out, good luck.
get an ana grading guide, and read all the material you can on your favorite series, and of couse go to shows and look, look, look, ask questions, listen, learn, and occasionally buy things
I'm not sure where you got the value from, but if it's from the Redbook... well... let's just say that figuring out the grade is one part, and understanding the value is another. It's never accurate in a book (regardless of the color). Realized auction prices are the best for value in many situations, though it depends on who you are selling it to (for example a dealer's offer).
I understand that something is only worth what someone will pay. I buy and sell classic cars and parts and I realize that books are to give you a close price range (hopefully). Take in account that someone bought a 69 Z-28 a couple years ago at auction for 130 thousand dollars. By the book it is a 40 thousand dollar car at the time. But, he had the money and wanted to prove he had money. Two years later he sold the car at the same auction for 60 thousand in the same condition. So, what is the car really worth ?? I think it is up to the individual. If they bought it and are happy with it, than that is what is worth. I also realize that I am a new coin collector and don't know squat about it yet but, by my eye and with the help of the books that were recommended to me, that is how I see my coin. I am sure I am way off though, but I bet it is worth more than the 30 bucks I paid for it. Thanks for the reply.
