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Posted 01/30/2016 08:42 am
Something else to keep in mind is that when coining methods changed new phenomenon popped up. Even when the experts went to the well (mint) for and explanation, they didn't receive much in the way of answers. So they were left to speculate a bit and surely there were differences of opinion between the experts. You'll even see that here in the forums every once in a while.
As has been noted, these folks have taken it upon themselves to document 'anomalies' and 'things' that broadened the hobby. Where there was very limited interest has grown to what it is now, through their contributions and through ours (folks who submit/discuss varieties and errors). And interest correlates with potential value. So we are benefitting; financially (perhaps in a small way) and interest (perhaps in a bigger way). Also, distinctions are useful to an extent. Attributing this-or-that to a doubled die versus a wavy step or trail is one way. But they are two labels for a distinct event. They are helpful in the sense that they provide information about the event. You can type a coin as one-or-the-other. Hardcore DD collectors may not care about Trails. The reverse is also true. Personally, I don't see this as a means to artificially grow the hobby or saturate/create a market. There's enough uniqueness with both to drive interest by themselves. Where it get's fuzzy to me is in the area of Machine Damaged coins (as an example). Here's were the uniqueness and the event to me doesn't warrant significant interest. Folks willing to sell those coins might fit what you describe in your original post. But they aren't making websites to attribute MD. And even with that said, there are folks out there who like the look of MD and like to collect the specimens. To-each-their-own. I have no objection to folks selling coins that people want, damaged or not (I only hope that they are clear to the seller what it is they are selling). No deception. And that's key here; the folks creating sites like Traildies or Coppercoins are not trying to deceive anyone. In fact, as information became more available over time, they've retracted listings and offered explanations. I think that's the hallmark of a credible site or reference.
Sorry for the longwinded response, but I just wanted to offer my support to those that are working to expand our hobby in appropriate ways and perhaps give you a nugget to consider. Good luck on the hunt Kevin!
As has been noted, these folks have taken it upon themselves to document 'anomalies' and 'things' that broadened the hobby. Where there was very limited interest has grown to what it is now, through their contributions and through ours (folks who submit/discuss varieties and errors). And interest correlates with potential value. So we are benefitting; financially (perhaps in a small way) and interest (perhaps in a bigger way). Also, distinctions are useful to an extent. Attributing this-or-that to a doubled die versus a wavy step or trail is one way. But they are two labels for a distinct event. They are helpful in the sense that they provide information about the event. You can type a coin as one-or-the-other. Hardcore DD collectors may not care about Trails. The reverse is also true. Personally, I don't see this as a means to artificially grow the hobby or saturate/create a market. There's enough uniqueness with both to drive interest by themselves. Where it get's fuzzy to me is in the area of Machine Damaged coins (as an example). Here's were the uniqueness and the event to me doesn't warrant significant interest. Folks willing to sell those coins might fit what you describe in your original post. But they aren't making websites to attribute MD. And even with that said, there are folks out there who like the look of MD and like to collect the specimens. To-each-their-own. I have no objection to folks selling coins that people want, damaged or not (I only hope that they are clear to the seller what it is they are selling). No deception. And that's key here; the folks creating sites like Traildies or Coppercoins are not trying to deceive anyone. In fact, as information became more available over time, they've retracted listings and offered explanations. I think that's the hallmark of a credible site or reference.
Sorry for the longwinded response, but I just wanted to offer my support to those that are working to expand our hobby in appropriate ways and perhaps give you a nugget to consider. Good luck on the hunt Kevin!
Edited by Rackster
01/30/2016 10:39 am
01/30/2016 10:39 am
