Expert: Troy Thoreson - 1/5/2010

Question
QUESTION: I have more than 25 Eisenhower Dollar coins, but have no way to grade them.  I have the 2010 Red Book and while it provides good grading information on just about every other U.S. modern coin, it doesn't provide any for Eisenhower, Sacagawean and SBAs.  Any assistance you can provide would be helpful.

Steve Smith

ANSWER: Hi Steve,

In general, these coins are only collected in BU (Brilliant Uncirculated) or better condition.  So, unless your coin is dripping with lots of luster and obviously unused then it is just another dollar with little to no collector value.  That is the main reason you can't find much grading information on used coins.

Yes, the following is a canned response designed to help the novice collector with general information.  If you need more explanation or you feel my answer is to short, please call me or reply with a more specific question.  I own and operate two active coin shops and I apologize in advance if my answer is short, to the point, or lacking detail.  Again, please reply or if I missed something or if you need more information.

Information given about values is general and determined by current market conditions and/or the price of metals.  Prices and values are subject to change.

Please remember to never clean coins, this can damage and lessen their value.  Also, soft plastics can contain harmful chemicals that can react with coins over time.  Try using inert materials when storing coins.  Plus, it is always a good idea to store coins in a safe.  The safe should not be exposed to the elements and should not be up against a wall to the outside.  These are just a few tips I have learned over the years to help keep your collection in top shape.

If you found this information helpful please nominate me for category expert in coins.  If coming through Los Banos, CA please feel free to look us up at Thoreson Numismatics, 947 6th Street, Los Banos, CA  93635.  209-826-0777, email troy@aucpro.com or TNC Coins located at 118 West Main Street, in Turlock, CA  95380  209-668-3682.   Please remember that we are always in the market to buy and sell coins, currency, tokens, and medals both U.S. and World.  We are also licensed to buy scrap gold & platinum jewelry.  

Thanks for the question,


Troy Thoreson, President
Auc Pro, Inc.
Thoreson Numismatics
www.aucpro.com


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the timely reply.  Your answers are probably aimed at the new numismatists, not those who have been collecting for awhile.  I really would like to get more information about grading Eisenhower dollars, as I have some that I feel fall short of MS65, but I don't know whether they should fall to an MS60 or AU-55.  Do I limit my focus on the Earth device on the reverse, or should I be looking at his hair detail on the obverse?

Answer
Hi Steve,

Yes, I do tend to start off answering questions considering that many people are new to collecting.  Here is my trick when grading new and classic coins.  Image going to the bank and buying a new roll (never opened) original roll of coins.  Crack it up and you will notice the luster of each coin is amazing.  Coins need at least this level of luster to be considered CHBU or MS64.  Contact marks will then decrease or increase the grade.  The strike detail and other factors can also come into play.

When faced with deciding if a coin is AU or MS60 (unc) I tend to go with AU if thinking is involved.  Most collectors and Sellers will tend to upgrade a coin when in fact it is AU.  There can be no wear or break in luster on an uncirculated coin.  

I hope this helps.  Thanks, Troy