Error Coins: Complete Guide to Mint Mistakes, Varieties, Values & Identification

From minor die cracks to major wrong planchet errors – understanding mint mistakes that create value

Minting Defects Error Identification Value Factors
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WHAT ARE ERROR COINS?

Mint-made mistakes that escape quality control – understanding what makes them valuable

Definition & Collector Reality

Error coins are coins that contain mistakes made during the minting process at official government mints. These errors must happen during production – post-mint damage does not count as an error and has no numismatic value.

Why Error Coins Are Collected

  • Uniqueness: Each error is slightly different, making them unique
  • Scarcity: Modern mints destroy most errors, few escape
  • History: Each error tells a story about minting processes
  • Investment potential: Major errors can appreciate significantly
  • Challenge: Finding errors requires skill and knowledge

Error Coin Characteristics

  • Mint-made: Must occur during official production
  • Escaped detection: Passed through quality control
  • Non-reproducible: Each error is essentially unique
  • Documentable: Can be traced to specific mint processes
  • Gradable: Can be graded by PCGS/NGC with error designations

The Evolution of Error Coin Collecting

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Early Error Collecting (Pre-1960)

Errors were largely ignored or melted:

  • Most errors destroyed by mints
  • Few collectors specialized in errors
  • No organized error market
  • Errors often spent in circulation
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Modern Error Market (1960-2000)

Error collecting becomes organized:

  • CONECA founded (1970s)
  • Error price guides published
  • Major errors achieve record prices
  • Specialized error dealers emerge
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Digital Error Era (2000-Present)

Online error market explosion:

  • eBay enables error trading worldwide
  • Online error identification services
  • Social media error groups
  • Digital error authentication

The Collector Mindset: Error vs Damage

Mint Errors (Valuable)

Occur during production at the mint. Caused by minting equipment or processes. Have numismatic value.

Post-Mint Damage (Worthless)

Occur after leaving the mint. Caused by circulation, cleaning, or intentional alteration. Destroy numismatic value.

⚠️
Altered Coins (Scams)

Common coins altered to look like errors. Sold to unsuspecting buyers. Always verify with experts.

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TYPES OF COIN ERRORS

Complete classification system – understanding how errors occur and their value

The Error Classification System

Errors are classified by when they occur in the minting process: planchet preparation, die preparation, or striking process.

Step 1
Planchet Errors

Mistakes in the blank metal disc before striking

Step 2
Die Errors

Flaws in the coin dies that transfer to coins

Step 3
Striking Errors

Mistakes during the actual minting process

Step 4
Post-Strike Errors

Errors that occur after striking but before release

Planchet Errors

Occur: During blank preparation

Common types: Clipped planchets, wrong planchet, laminations, incomplete planchets

Value range: $5 to $100,000+

Key example: 1943 copper cent ($100,000+)

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Die Errors

Occur: During die preparation or use

Common types: Doubled dies, die cracks, cuds, die clashes

Value range: $10 to $50,000+

Key example: 1955 doubled die cent ($1,000+)

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Striking Errors

Occur: During coin striking

Common types: Off-center strikes, brockages, multiple strikes

Value range: $20 to $10,000+

Key example: 50%+ off-center strikes ($500+)

Major Error Categories in Detail

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Clipped Planchets

How made: Planchet punched from overlapping metal strip

Types: Straight clips, curved clips, elliptical clips

Value factors: Clip size, Blakesley effect presence

Common value: $5-$50 for small clips

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Doubled Dies

How made: Hub impressions misaligned on die

Types: Rotated, offset, pivoted, design hub doubling

Value factors: Doubling strength, date visibility

Famous: 1955, 1972, 1983 doubled die cents

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Off-Center Strikes

How made: Planchet not centered in collar

Value rule: Must show date and mint mark for full value

Grading: By percentage off-center

Value range: 5%: $20, 50%+: $500+

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HOW TO IDENTIFY ERROR COINS

Step-by-step method for identifying genuine mint errors

The Error Identification Process

Proper error identification requires systematic examination and knowledge of minting processes.

1
Examine Under Magnification

Use: 10x loupe minimum, 30x for details

Look for: Tool marks, filing, unnatural edges

Check: Error characteristics match mint processes

2
Weigh the Coin

Use: Precision scale (0.01g accuracy)

Compare: To standard weight for denomination

Significant: Wrong planchet errors show wrong weight

3
Check Metal Flow

Genuine errors: Show proper metal flow patterns

Fakes: Often have tool marks, filed edges

Look for: Blakesley effect on clipped planchets

4
Compare to Known Examples

Use: Error reference books, online databases

Check: Error characteristics match type

Verify: With experienced error collectors

5
Document Everything

Photograph: Both sides, edge, close-ups

Measure: Error size, location, characteristics

Record: Weight, dimensions, observations

Quick Identification Guide by Error Type

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Clipped Planchet

Look for: Crescent-shaped missing area

Authenticity test: Blakesley effect present

Common fakes: Filed edges, wrong shape

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Doubled Die

Look for: Secondary images, notching

Not: Machine doubling (worthless)

Test: Compare to known doubled dies

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Off-Center Strike

Look for: Design partially missing

Must show: Date and mint mark for value

Measure: Percentage off-center

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Die Crack/Cud
Die Crack/Cud

Look for: Raised lines or blobs

Cud: Major die break with design missing

Value: Cuds > minor die cracks

Common Error Identification Challenges

Machine Doubling vs Doubled Die
  • Machine doubling: Flat, shelf-like, no notching
  • Doubled die: Separate, rounded images with notching
  • Value difference: Machine doubling = $0, Doubled die = $20+
  • Test: Tilt coin under light, look for separation
Post-Mint Damage vs Clip
  • Genuine clip: Smooth curved edge, Blakesley effect
  • Damage: Jagged edges, tool marks, wrong shape
  • Weight: Clipped coins lighter but proportional
  • Edge: Clip shows proper metal flow
Environmental Damage vs Lamination
  • Lamination error: Metal peeling, occurs before striking
  • Corrosion: Pitting, green/black spots, occurs after minting
  • Value: Lamination has value, corrosion destroys value
  • Location: Lamination follows metal grain

How to Spot Fake/Altered Errors

Common Error Fakes
  • Filed "clips": Wrong shape, tool marks visible
  • Added "errors": Glue, solder, or epoxy added
  • Altered dates: Changed to match famous errors
  • Cast fakes: Bubbly surfaces, soft details
Detection Methods
  • Magnification: Look for tool marks
  • Weight check: Compare to standard
  • Edge examination: Check for filing/alteration
  • Metal flow: Genuine errors show proper flow

Error Identification Checklist

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ERROR COIN GRADING

How condition affects error coin values – specialized grading considerations

Dual Grading: Error Significance + Coin Condition

Error coins are graded on both the Sheldon scale (condition) and error significance scale.

Error Significance Grading Scale

Minor Errors (Grade 1-3)
Grade 1 Minor die crack, small lamination
Grade 2 Small clip (under 5%), minor misalignment
Grade 3 Noticeable die crack, medium lamination
Major Errors (Grade 4-6)
Grade 4 Large clip (10-25%), cud, 20-40% off-center
Grade 5 50% off-center, major doubled die, wrong planchet
Grade 6 Multiple errors, dramatic presentation

Error Eye Appeal Factors

Error Visibility

How easily the error can be seen. Dramatic, obvious errors command higher premiums.

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Error Placement

Errors affecting date/mint mark more valuable. Centered errors often preferred.

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Error Size

Larger errors generally more valuable. Percentage matters for off-centers and clips.

Coin Condition

Same error in MS-65 vs AG-3: MS-65 can be 10-100x more valuable.

Special Error Designations

ODV - Obverse Doubled Die

Doubling on front of coin (date, portrait)

Premium: Usually higher than reverse doubling

RDV - Reverse Doubled Die

Doubling on back of coin

Premium: Less than obverse unless dramatic

OC - Off-Center

Percentage specified (OC 40%, OC 75%)

Premium: Higher percentages = higher value

WP - Wrong Planchet

Coin struck on incorrect blank

Premium: Major premium, often $100+

Third-Party Grading for Error Coins

Why Grade Error Coins?
  • Authenticity guarantee: PCGS/NGC verify genuine errors
  • Error attribution: Proper error type identification
  • Market acceptance: Slabbed errors sell easier
  • Value protection: Professional assessment of error significance
When to Submit Errors
  • Value over $100: Slabbing cost justified
  • Questionable authenticity: Get expert opinion
  • Major errors: Protection and marketability
  • Resale planning: Slabbed coins more liquid
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ERROR COIN VALUES

What makes error coins valuable – pricing factors and market realities

Error Coin Value Drivers

Error coin values are determined by multiple factors beyond just the type of error.

Primary Value Factors

Error Significance

Most important factor for error coins

Example: Major doubled die vs minor die crack

Scale: Minor (1) to Major (6) error grading

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Coin Condition

Same error different grades: MS-65 vs AG-3

Value difference: Can be 10-100x more for high grade

Rule: Error + condition = total value

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Error Rarity

Some errors more common: Minor die cracks

Some errors very rare: Wrong planchet on key date

Market demand: Popular errors command premiums

Common Value Misconceptions

"All Errors Are Valuable"

Reality: Minor errors (small die cracks, tiny clips) often have minimal value ($5-$20). Only significant errors command major premiums.

Example: Small die crack = $5, Major doubled die = $500+

"Bigger Error = More Value"

Reality: While size matters, placement and type matter more. A small clip showing date is more valuable than a large clip without date.

Example: 10% clip with date > 20% clip without date

"Error Coins Always Appreciate"

Reality: Common errors may not appreciate. Only significant, well-documented errors in good condition reliably appreciate.

Market fact: Error market follows general numismatic trends

Price Ladder: Understanding Error Values

Tier 1: Minor Errors
$5 - $50

Includes:

  • Small die cracks
  • Minor laminations
  • Tiny clips (under 5%)
  • Slight misalignments

Market reality: 80% of found errors fall here

Tier 2: Moderate Errors
$50 - $500

Includes:

  • Medium clips (5-15%)
  • 20-40% off-center strikes
  • Noticeable doubled dies
  • Cuds and major die breaks

Collector zone: Most error collectors operate here

Tier 3: Major Errors
$500 - $10,000+

Includes:

  • 50%+ off-center strikes
  • Wrong planchet errors
  • Major doubled dies
  • Multiple striking errors
  • Famous error varieties

Advanced market: Slabbed, professionally traded

How to Research Error Values

1
Accurate Error Identification

Correct error type, size, and characteristics identified. Wrong ID = wrong value.

2
Grade Both Error and Coin

Error significance grade (1-6) + Sheldon grade (1-70). Both affect value.

3
Check Recent Sales

eBay sold listings, error auction results. Look for similar errors sold recently.

4
Consult Error Price Guides

CONECA guides, error dealer price lists, online error databases.

5
Get Expert Opinion

For significant errors, consult error specialists or grading services.

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DAMAGE VS ERRORS

Critical distinction – what has value and what destroys value

The Most Important Distinction in Error Collecting

Understanding the difference between mint errors and post-mint damage is essential to avoid wasting money on worthless coins.

Mint Errors (Valuable)

Striking Errors

Occur: During striking process at mint

Examples: Off-center strikes, brockages, multiple strikes

Characteristics: Proper strike characteristics, metal flow

Value: $20 to thousands depending on severity

Post-Mint Damage (Worthless)

Circulation Damage
  • Caused by: Normal wear, impact, abrasion
  • Examples: Scratches, nicks, dents from use
  • Effect: Reduces grade, not an error
  • Value impact: Reduces value, doesn't add value
Intentional Damage
  • Caused by: Human alteration after minting
  • Examples: Filed edges, drilled holes, engravings
  • Effect: Destroys numismatic value
  • Value impact: Reduces to melt/bullion value only

Environmental Damage (Destructive)

Chemical/Environmental Damage
  • Caused by: Exposure to chemicals, moisture
  • Examples: Corrosion, PVC damage, toning spots
  • Effect: Destroys surfaces permanently
  • Value impact: Often reduces to zero numismatic value

Warning: Environmental damage is NOT an error and has NO numismatic value

How to Tell Error vs Damage

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Magnification Examination
  • Errors show: Proper metal flow, mint characteristics
  • Damage shows: Tool marks, filing, unnatural edges
  • Look for: Evidence of human alteration
  • Check: Edges for filing or grinding
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Weight & Measurement
  • Errors: Weight matches minting process
  • Altered coins: Often wrong weight
  • Check: Against standard weights
  • Measure: Dimensions for alterations
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Knowledge & Comparison
  • Study: How errors are made at mints
  • Compare: To known genuine examples
  • Understand: Minting processes and limitations
  • Consult: Error reference materials
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Warning: Social Media Error Scams

Common misinformation circulating:

  • "All odd-looking coins are valuable errors" (most are damage)
  • "Machine doubling is a valuable error" (it's worthless)
  • "Environmental damage is a mint error" (it's not)
  • "Any off-center coin is valuable" (must show date/mint mark)

Reality check: 99% of coins shown as "errors" on social media are either common damage, minimal value errors, or outright fakes.

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FAMOUS ERROR COINS

Legendary mint mistakes that made history and set records

The Most Famous Error Coins in History

These error coins achieved legendary status due to their dramatic appearance, rarity, or historical significance.

Legendary US Error Coins

1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
  • Error type: Major doubled die obverse
  • Characteristics: Dramatic doubling on date and lettering
  • Estimated survivors: 10,000-15,000
  • Value range: $1,000 to $15,000+
  • Legend: Most famous US error coin
1943 Copper Lincoln Cent
  • Error type: Wrong planchet
  • Characteristics: Bronze planchet in steel cent year
  • Estimated survivors: 40 known
  • Value range: $100,000 to $1,000,000+
  • Legend: Holy grail of error coins
1972 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
  • Error type: Major doubled die obverse
  • Characteristics: Extreme doubling on entire obverse
  • Estimated survivors: 20,000+
  • Value range: $200 to $1,500+
  • Note: Most dramatic modern doubled die

Famous World Error Coins

2000 "Mule" Dollar (Australia)

Error type: Wrong die combination

Characteristics: Queen Elizabeth II obverse with wrong reverse

Rarity: Extremely rare, most destroyed

Value: $10,000+ when found

History: Mint employee prosecuted for theft

1937 "Dot" Cent (Canada)

Error type: Die adjustment strike with dot

Characteristics: Small dot near date

Rarity: Few known examples

Value: $5,000+ for genuine examples

Note: Heavily counterfeited

2005 "In God We Rust" Kansas Quarter

Error type: Grease-filled die

Characteristics: "TRUST" appears as "RUST"

Rarity: Moderately rare

Value: $50-$200 depending on grade

Popularity: Famous modern error

Characteristics of Famous Errors

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Distinctive Features
  • 1955 DDO: Dramatic notching, separate images
  • 1943 Copper: Weight 3.11g (not 2.70g), bronze color
  • 1972 DDO: Extreme doubling, visible separation
  • Common to all: Proper mint characteristics, no tool marks
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Common Fakes of Famous Errors
  • 1955 DDO fakes: Altered 1955 coins, cast copies
  • 1943 Copper fakes: Plated steel cents, altered dates
  • 1972 DDO fakes: Added doubling, altered coins
  • Detection: Always verify with experts for expensive errors
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Buying Famous Errors Safely
  • Buy slabbed: PCGS/NGC graded only
  • Verify certification: Check numbers online
  • Know diagnostics: Study specific error characteristics
  • Use reputable dealers: Error specialists with guarantees
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GLOBAL ERROR COINS

Error coins from around the world – international mint mistakes

Error Coins Beyond the United States

Every mint in the world produces errors. International error collecting offers unique opportunities.

Major World Mint Error Characteristics

🇨🇦
Canadian Error Coins

Common errors: Die cracks, clips, off-centers

Famous errors: 1937 dot cent, 1969 doubled die

Market: Active Canadian error collectors

Value range: Similar to US errors

Note: Many errors in silver coinage

🇬🇧
British Error Coins

Common errors: Die clashes, brockages

Famous errors: 1971 undated 20p, mule errors

Market: Strong UK error market

Value range: Often higher than face value

Note: Royal Mint errors well-documented

🇦🇺
Australian Error Coins

Common errors: Striking errors, planchet flaws

Famous errors: 2000 mule dollar, off-center strikes

Market: Growing error market

Value range: Moderate to high for major errors

Note: Many errors in commemorative issues

International Error Collecting Strategies

By Country/Region
  • Focus: Errors from one country
  • Example: Canadian errors only
  • Advantage: Deep knowledge of one mint
  • Challenge: Limited availability in some regions
By Error Type
  • Focus: Specific error type worldwide
  • Example: Off-center strikes from all countries
  • Advantage: Comparative study of mint processes
  • Challenge: Requires international sourcing
By Denomination
  • Focus: Errors on specific denominations
  • Example: Dollar/Pound/Euro errors
  • Advantage: Size comparison interesting
  • Challenge: Different value scales

Buying International Error Coins

1
Understand Local Markets

Research: Error values in country of origin

Consider: Local collector demand

Check: Export/import regulations

2
Verify Authenticity

Challenge: Less documentation than US errors

Solution: Buy from reputable international dealers

Consider: Third-party grading for expensive errors

3
Account for Exchange & Shipping

Factor: Currency exchange rates

Consider: International shipping costs and insurance

Check: Customs duties and taxes

International Error Resources

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Online Communities

International error forums, Facebook groups, specialty websites.

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Reference Materials

Country-specific error guides, mint publications, auction catalogs.

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Dealer Networks

International error dealers, coin show connections, auction houses.

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ERROR COIN HUNTING

How to find error coins in circulation – strategies and techniques

The Art of Error Coin Hunting

Finding error coins requires knowledge, patience, and systematic searching techniques.

Error Hunting Strategies

Bank Roll Searching

Method: Obtain rolls from banks, search systematically

Best for: Modern errors, minor die varieties

Success rate: 1 error per 10-50 rolls average

Cost: Face value only (plus time)

Tip: Customer-wrapped rolls better than machine-wrapped

Coin Show/Dealer Hunting

Method: Search dealer error boxes, bargain bins

Best for: Known errors, variety hunting

Success rate: Higher but more expensive

Cost: Premium over face value

Tip: Build relationships with error specialists

Online Error Hunting

Method: Search online marketplaces, auctions

Best for: Specific errors, rarities

Success rate: High but requires knowledge

Cost: Market prices

Tip: Learn to identify errors from photos

What to Look For When Hunting

Visual Inspection Points
  • Edges: Look for clips, irregular shapes
  • Surfaces: Check for laminations, peeling
  • Designs: Examine for doubling, cracks
  • Alignment: Check for off-center strikes
  • Weight: Feel for wrong planchet errors
Common Findable Errors
  • Minor die cracks: Most common find
  • Small clips: Often in circulation
  • Die chips/cuds: Look for raised blobs
  • Grease errors: Missing design elements
  • Slight off-centers: 2-10% common finds
Rare But Possible Finds
  • Major off-centers: 20%+ occasionally found
  • Wrong planchets: Very rare but possible
  • Doubled dies: Known varieties sometimes found
  • Multiple errors: Combination errors rare
  • Transitional errors: 1965 silver, 1943 copper

Error Hunting Equipment

Essential Tools
  • 10x loupe: Minimum magnification
  • Good lighting: Daylight or bright LED
  • Reference materials: Error guides, variety lists
  • Magnifying lamp: For extended searching
  • Digital scale: For weight verification
Organization System
  • Sorting trays: For organizing searched coins
  • 2x2 holders: For keeping found errors
  • Notebook/database: For recording finds
  • Camera: For documenting discoveries
  • Storage boxes: For organized collection

Documenting Your Error Finds

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Find Details
  • Date found: When discovered
  • Location found: Where discovered
  • Source: Bank roll, circulation, etc.
  • Initial observations: First impressions
  • Photos: Before any cleaning or handling
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Error Analysis
  • Error type: Classification
  • Measurements: Size, percentage, etc.
  • Weight: Exact weight in grams
  • Grade estimates: Both error and coin
  • Comparisons: Similar known errors
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Database Entry
  • Digital record: Spreadsheet or database
  • Photographic archive: High-quality images
  • Research notes: Reference comparisons
  • Value estimates: Current market assessment
  • Future plans: Grading, selling, etc.
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The Error Hunting Community

Organizations: CONECA (Combined Organizations of Numismatic Error Collectors of America)

Online forums: Error-specific discussion boards

Social media: Facebook error groups, Instagram error accounts

Local clubs: Coin clubs with error collectors

Mentorship: Learning from experienced error hunters

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BUYING & SELLING ERROR COINS

Navigating the error coin market safely and profitably

The Error Coin Market Realities

Error coins have a specialized market with unique buying and selling considerations.

Where to Buy Error Coins

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Specialized Error Dealers

Advantages:

  • Expert authentication
  • Quality guarantees
  • Educational resource
  • Return policies
  • Price guidance

Considerations: Higher prices than general dealers

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Coin Shows

Advantages:

  • Handle coins before buying
  • Multiple error dealers in one place
  • Price comparison possible
  • Expert opinions available
  • Show specials possible

Considerations: Travel required, may be overwhelming

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Error Auctions

Advantages:

  • Access to rare errors
  • Market-determined prices
  • Professional descriptions
  • Large selections
  • Online bidding convenience

Considerations: Buyer's premiums, need expertise to bid

🌐
Online Marketplaces

Advantages:

  • Largest selection
  • Competitive pricing
  • Convenience
  • Price transparency
  • International access

Considerations: Highest fake risk, photo-only examination

How to Evaluate Error Listings

Essential Listing Information
  • Clear photos: Both sides, edge, close-ups of error
  • Accurate description: Error type, size, characteristics
  • Weight provided: Critical for authentication
  • Return policy: Minimum 14 days for authenticity
  • Seller reputation: Error specialist preferred
  • Grading information: If slabbed, certification details
Red Flags in Error Listings
  • Stock photos only: Not actual coin
  • Vague descriptions: "Rare error" without specifics
  • No return policy: Or very limited returns
  • Pressure tactics: "Once in lifetime" claims
  • Too good to be true: Major errors at minor error prices
  • Poor photos: Blurry, dark, hiding details

Where to Sell Error Coins

Error Specialist Dealers

How it works: Direct sale to error expert

Best for: Significant errors, quick sale

Advantages: Expert evaluation, quick payment

Considerations: Lower prices than retail (dealer needs profit)

Error Auctions

How it works: Consignment to error auction

Best for: Rare errors, high-value errors

Advantages: Market exposure, competitive bidding

Considerations: Commissions 15-25%, time to payment

Online Marketplaces

How it works: Direct listing to collectors

Best for: Common to moderate errors

Advantages: Higher prices possible, direct to collectors

Considerations: Time-consuming, requires good presentation

Pricing Error Coins for Sale

Research-Based Pricing
  • Recent sales: Similar errors recently sold
  • Error guides: CONECA, error price guides
  • Dealer prices: What are dealers asking?
  • Condition comparison: Your error vs comparables
  • Market timing: Current error market trends
Realistic Price Expectations
  • Dealer buy price: 50-70% of retail value
  • Auction net: 70-85% of retail after fees
  • Private sale: 80-95% of retail if direct to collector
  • Quick sale: 60-80% of retail for immediate cash
  • Grading impact: Slabbed errors sell for more

Common Error Selling Mistakes

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Undervaluing Errors

Problem: Not recognizing significant errors

Example: Selling major doubled die as common coin

Solution: Research before selling, get expert opinion

📦
Poor Presentation

Problem: Bad photos, incomplete description

Result: Lower offers, fewer buyers

Solution: Professional presentation, complete information

Wrong Timing

Problem: Selling during market slow periods

Result: Lower prices, less interest

Solution: Time sales with major coin shows or auctions

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Wrong Buyer

Problem: Selling specialized errors to general dealers

Example: Major error to non-error specialist

Solution: Match error type to dealer specialty