So, as many of you are aware, I have completed the five pages of the 7070 album in VF+ with most of the coins in much better AU/BU grades (and even some proofs.) But, completion is in the eye of the beholder I guess, as last week I purchased an expensive upgrade (an 1797 S-128 Draped Bust Cent with XF Details for $700.) In addition, I went to a local coin show this weekend and picked up some upgrades. After today, there is only one must-upgrade coin (A
Seated Liberty dime) which I figure I can snipe on
ebay for $100 or so. I would say the Classic Head Cent is only a Fine, and one of the
Seated dollars a borderline Fine. Those are both very expensive coins, and will probably not upgrade them if ever.
I also recently obtained the "Optional" (sixth) Gold Page. Now, the challenge is on. Ideally, I would like to represent coins from all of the Branch mints but I realize this may be a pipe dream because I am quickly running out of funds for coins. I find that the branch mint gold coins may represent a good value in today's market place but what do I know.. If anybody is into this, any suggestions are appreciated. After today, I will still have 7 holes to fill on the gold page. Right now, I have a Liberty Gold Dollar, an Indian Quarter Eagle, and a newly purchased Liberty Quarter Eagle.
The newly purchased Quarter Eagle is the first piece of branch mint gold that I have ever owned. This hobby is becoming really addictive and could be very hard on my wallet. I don't know how a lot of the local dealers manage to keep an inventory of a million dollars worth of coins. The coin is an 1846-O (New Orleans) coin, with a low mintage and an estimated 175 survivors! I have a belief that a problem-free US Gold coin with 175 survivors (similar to that of a 1794 dollar) has to be somewhat undervalued at under $1000. I got this coin on
ebay for $775 at an auction this evening. Experts and friends, let me know what you think of the coin/price I paid. The dealer described the coin as "Border line mint state", and stated that any specs on the coin were from the scan. With my naked eye, I see a scratch on the bottom of Liberty's neck and something embedded in the 8. To me, I'm not sure this coin is even AU. I may send it back if I don't like it. I'm not sure if the coin would be
TPG gradable, what do you experts think?
I also picked up a relatively inexpensive upgrade for my Type Set going to replace an out of league AG piece (an 1891
Seated Liberty dime with Legend.) I am not sure if the toning on this coin is natural but the details are satisfactory for my set and the price (under $40) didn't seem over my head. After this coin, I have only one other strong candidate for upgrade.
New Coins! (Photos)



