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 Replies: 16 / Views: 3,300 |
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Valued Member
United States
90 Posts |
Hi, I am trying to complete a collection of circulated Mercury dimes. Because of corona-tine, I am looking to buy a 1921 P Mercury dime off of ebay. I'm a highschooler, so I really don't want to drop more than $50, therefore I would probably buy one in AG-G condition. I'm seeing that in that kind of condition, uncertified ones are going for $15-25, while certified ones go for about $35-60. Is it too big of a risk to buy this kind of date raw? Or would it be stupid to buy one certified in such a low condition? Thanks for any and all help! :) |
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Pillar of the Community
 United States
8938 Posts |
Hello fellow high schooler! These are very seldom faked in low grades. Typically from what I've seen the fake 1921 merc tend to me in choice VF-MS condition. If you want an AG-G it'd be best to buy raw IMO.
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Valued Member
 United States
90 Posts |
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Rest in Peace
United States
18456 Posts |
 , raw is the way to go in this case . Just go over the sellers photos carefully and don't take a chance buying from bad or burry pics , the photo could be hiding something .  |
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Pillar of the Community
United States
8938 Posts |
And make sure it's not cleaned
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Pillar of the Community
United States
1316 Posts |
In this grade and price point, I'd buy uncertified from a reputable seller that accepts returns in case the coin isn't as it appears to be in the pics, such as a cleaning wasn't evident until you had it in hand. In this grade, the certification is an expensive way to ensure authenticity, talking with a reputable seller is probably free.
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Pillar of the Community
United States
1308 Posts |
I'm a old school raw guy, and I personally prefer my set in a book, something I can handle. Your chances of crossing a fake in low grade is less likely. Best of luck & happy hunting.
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Pillar of the Community
United States
1613 Posts |
I bought one uncertified. It took quite a bit of patients finding one that matched the genuine I downloaded from PCGS as reference. That and a few books on counterfeits to learn about mint mark location and other characteristics common with fakes. Still, I'd recommend graded.
ANA member - PAN Member - BCCS Member There are no problems only solutions - the late, great John Lennon
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Pillar of the Community
United States
8516 Posts |
We can always give it a look over here before you pull the trigger.
Oregon coin geek.....*** GO BEAVS ! ! ! ***
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Pillar of the Community
United States
5825 Posts |
The general rule is, "buy the best you can afford".
And another guideline is, "don't buy a coin that grades less than Good".
My suggestion to you is to save up until you can reach the Good level.
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Pillar of the Community
Canada
857 Posts |
Quote:
.Hello fellow high schooler! These are very seldom faked in low grades. Typically from what I've seen the fake 1921 merc tend to me in choice VF-MS condition. If you want an AG-G it'd be best to buy raw IMO. I think that's fair advice, btw I didn't know you were also a high schooler, guess theres more of us around this hobby then even I thought  |
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Pillar of the Community
United States
1801 Posts |
I agree with Kanga, save up until you can buy one that is a solid good or better. Personally I would insist on full rims at minimum. In the long run (been collecting coins since 3rd grade and I am in my 60's) you will be much happier with the better grade as opposed to just filling a hole in a set. Also send a PM to 'Just Carl" and ask him for things to look out for in a 21 mercury. He has assembled several full sets in various grades and could probably give you some good pointers.
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Bedrock of the Community
United States
20753 Posts |
I go along with taking a chance on the raw one. Not many counterfeiters will waste time making a well worn anything unless it is worth a lot of money and 21 Merc is not that.
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Pillar of the Community
United States
4469 Posts |
Buying a $50 1921 raw dime on ebay that looks original is fine, but still look at the dimes in TPG holders as sometimes they are the best deal. |
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Pillar of the Community
United States
8137 Posts |
Like others have said, you shouldn't worry about buying a counterfeit. However, I strongly recommend saving a bit longer and buying a nicer example.
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Valued Member
United States
425 Posts |
It is good to see you have a budget in place. Being more than forty years older, that principal is just as important to me. Enjoy the hobby and the collection of each coin in the set. It goes without saying look for the best you can afford within your budget. Graded in the circulated grades adds little benefit while adding additional costs. Check the reputation and return policies of the seller. I have purchased many raw and graded coins on ebay, with no issues. Mercury dimes are a beautiful coin and a beautiful set....enjoy them. Edited by Erscolo
03/30/2020 12:46 pm
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Replies: 16 / Views: 3,300 |
Posted 03/28/2020 1:22 pm
