A day for extreme celebration

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Walkerfan
Walkerfan Posts: 10,391 ✭✭✭✭✭
edited December 15, 2021 8:02PM in U.S. Coin Forum

The most important day for me as a Walker collector has arrived.

The 16 YEAR enterprise has been realized.

Well, I never thought that this day would ever come but I have, FINALLY, completed my Full (1916-1947) Walker set!!

This saga began in the summer of 2005, when we were all quite a bit younger and I was MUCH more driven and fearless!! LOL I had a couple of inactive years but decided to totally commit, in Fall 2009. So much did I learn along the way. The hours, days and years spent on this series. Searching and researching. Studying and comparing. All the while never giving up. It feels soooo GOOD to have reached my goal. I can FINALLY kick back and relax, now.

The last piece of the puzzle and the rarest coin in the ENTIRE series.....The fabled 1921-S, has been added. It is an NGC XF 45, so it is not a mint state example like the rest of my set. HOWEVER, I feel that this piece matches well, in quality, with the rest of my set and, more importantly, it is solid for its assigned grade. I may or may not try to upgrade it to AU or even MS, because at this point, I really like this coin.

I was underbidder on THREE 1921-S coins before this one: A PCGS MS 62 from the famous Western Reserve set, a PCGS AU 58 CAC and a PCGS AU 55 (this one wound up in the #1 NGC set). All went for money that shot WELL BEYOND THE MOON and, at least, two of these set new price records.....

When I saw this piece, it spoke to me, almost immediately. It has, IMHO, great detail and separation, no rim dings, with smooth, original, gray surfaces and also traces of mint luster with no spots or deep abrasions. So, after examining it, as quickly and thoroughly as possible, I jumped on it, as I really didn’t think I would find one that would please me more, anytime soon. Sooooo FEW of these ever trade hands, as they are FAR rarer in XF/AU than in MS and MANY are of very POOR quality. NGC Census is just 27/152. I did a search on both Heritage and Great Collections archives and there’s almost nothing like this. The one or two that did sell are not as nice as my coin, IMHO. I am pleased as punch with this example. To me, It looks like the old XFs, of yesteryear---before gradeflation was rampant, from when I was in my early 20s and collecting raw Walkers in XF/AU circa 1992.

I ended up in the #8 spot, at NGC, which I feel is rather respectable. Especially, given the growth and resurgence of the NGC Registry, in the last few years. There have been a TON of new sets created, lately. I should be #7, as Big Tex is a phantom set that was sold off years and years ago (September 2006), but that is inconsequential to me.

Thanks, and I can't wait to hear your thoughts!!

Sometimes, it’s better to be LUCKY than good. 🍀 🍺👍

My Full Walker Registry Set (1916-1947):

https://www.ngccoin.com/registry/competitive-sets/16292/

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Comments

  • Mgarmy
    Mgarmy Posts: 2,296 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    So happy for you. Awesome dedication to mission. Enjoy the endorphins man!

    100% positive transactions with SurfinxHI, bigole, 1madman, collectorcoins, proofmorgan, Luke Marshall, silver pop, golden egg, point five zero,coin22lover, alohagary, blaircountycoin,joebb21

  • crazyhounddog
    crazyhounddog Posts: 14,250 ✭✭✭✭✭
    edited December 14, 2021 9:34AM
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    That 21 is extremely beautiful. You did great!
    Congratulations my brother🍾

    The bitterness of "Poor Quality" is remembered long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten.
  • ricko
    ricko Posts: 98,724 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    That is a very respectable XF45 @Walkerfan . I like it. XF45, for some reason, is a grade I am frequently attracted to, especially on large silver coins. Congratulations on the completion of your set. Cheers, RickO

  • 59Horsehide
    59Horsehide Posts: 427 ✭✭✭
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    Congratulations on this major accomplishment - job well done. Take the rest of the day off. B)

  • rip_f
    rip_f Posts: 368 ✭✭✭✭
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    Well done man! Quite an achievement. Great collecting attitude.

  • Type2
    Type2 Posts: 13,985 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    Yes congratulations, please put me in on your 1921-s giveaway. haha 😉



    Hoard the keys.
  • Walkerguy21D
    Walkerguy21D Posts: 12,164 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    You already know my thoughts, Jeff!

    Fantastic coin and even greater accomplishment. Wonderful set you’ve assembled!

    Successful BST transactions with 177 members. breakdown, scotty1419, mattniss, bigjpst, onlyroosies, Manorcourtman, guitarwes, Ebeneezer, Tonedeaf, Shane6596, Piano1, Ikenefic, RG, PCGSPhoto, stman, Don'tTelltheWife, Boosibri, Ron1968, snowequities, VTchaser, jrt103, SurfinxHI, 78saen, bp777, FHC, RYK, JTHawaii, Opportunity, Kliao, bigtime36, skanderbeg, split37, thebigeng, acloco, Toninginthblood, OKCC, braddick, Coinflip, robcool, fastfreddie, tightbudget, DBSTrader2, nickelsciolist, relaxn, Eagle eye, soldi, silverman68, ElKevvo, sawyerjosh, Schmitz7, talkingwalnut2, konsole, sharkman987, sniocsu, comma, jesbroken, David1234, biosolar, Sullykerry, Moldnut, erwindoc, MichaelDixon, GotTheBug
  • erwindoc
    erwindoc Posts: 5,447 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    Great achievement!

    Now, the fun question...what is your next big project, LOL!!!

  • sumdunce
    sumdunce Posts: 1,247 ✭✭✭✭
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    Nice coin and congratulations on the set completion.

  • gumby1234
    gumby1234 Posts: 5,901 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    Well done

    Successful BST with ad4400, Kccoin, lablover, pointfivezero, koynekwest, jwitten, coin22lover, HalfDimeDude, erwindoc, jyzskowsi, COINS MAKE CENTS, AlanSki, BryceM

  • Project Numismatics
    Project Numismatics Posts: 1,886 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    Love the 1921-S - absolutely stunning. Congrats on the set completion!

  • ShaunBC5
    ShaunBC5 Posts: 1,974 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    Very nice! Congrats on completing your set. That’s a huge accomplishment.

  • coinbuf
    coinbuf Posts: 12,567 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    Awesome! Congrats on completing the set, it is a great sense of accomplishment to finish a major set.

    My Lincoln Registry
    My Collection of Old Holders

    Never a slave to one plastic brand will I ever be.
  • divecchia
    divecchia Posts: 6,715 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    Congratulations on the completion of your Walker set. You should be proud!!! It is a great feeling of accomplishment I'm sure. One that I hope to feel one day when I complete one of my sets.

    Donato

    Hobbyist & Collector (not an investor).
    Donato's Complete US Type Set ---- Donato's Dansco 7070 Modified Type Set ---- Donato's Basic U.S. Coin Design Set

    Successful transactions: Shrub68 (Jim), MWallace (Mike)
  • johnny9434
    johnny9434 Posts: 34,051 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    wtg :)

  • asheland
    asheland Posts: 24,545 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    Congratulations! XF45 is a very respectable grade. :)

  • Eldorado9
    Eldorado9 Posts: 2,822 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    @Walkerfan A truly monumental effort! Congrats buddy! Enjoy that collection!

  • Morpheus1967
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    Congrats!

  • pursuitofliberty
    pursuitofliberty Posts: 7,926 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    What a spectacular effort of dedication! Thanks for sharing your progress over the years!

    As a strong EF, that's one heck of a 21-S!! Not more than a handful that look that good for the grade (if even that many).

    Congratulations!!!


    “We are only their care-takers,” he posed, “if we take good care of them, then centuries from now they may still be here … ”

    Todd - BHNC #242
  • dbldie55
    dbldie55 Posts: 7,753 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    Congrats. The longer the mission, the more satisfying when you complete it.

    Collector and Researcher of Liberty Head Nickels. ANA LM-6053
  • Eldorado9
    Eldorado9 Posts: 2,822 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    Given the occasion, It would be appropriate to post some additional photos of your set!

  • Catbert
    Catbert Posts: 8,258 ✭✭✭✭✭
    edited December 14, 2021 12:00PM
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    Thrilled for you! Great accomplishment to assemble a set that meets your high standards. Hope the journey was enjoyable and not resulting in the need to relax. A hobby should be pressure free, right? :)

    Seated Half Society member #38

    "She comes out of the sun in a silk dress,
    running like a water color in the rain...."
  • jughead1893
    jughead1893 Posts: 2,196 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    congrats!

  • Walkerfan
    Walkerfan Posts: 10,391 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    @Catbert said:
    Thrilled for you! Great accomplishment to assemble a set that meets your high standards. Hope the journey was enjoyable and not resulting in the need to relax. A hobby should be pressure free, right? :)

    Thanks. :) Ha Ha, it was very enjoyable. As long as I kept progressing; I was happy. BUT, I will not lie to you--It took a lot of hard work and dedication. It tested my PATIENCE, at times, as well. ;) Especially, towards the end.

    Sometimes, it’s better to be LUCKY than good. 🍀 🍺👍

    My Full Walker Registry Set (1916-1947):

    https://www.ngccoin.com/registry/competitive-sets/16292/

  • Smudge
    Smudge Posts: 10,001 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    What’s next?

  • Walkerfan
    Walkerfan Posts: 10,391 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    @Smudge said:
    What’s next?

    Pick up what I like, at a VERY casual pace. No more big projects for me.

    Sometimes, it’s better to be LUCKY than good. 🍀 🍺👍

    My Full Walker Registry Set (1916-1947):

    https://www.ngccoin.com/registry/competitive-sets/16292/

  • shortnock
    shortnock Posts: 522 ✭✭✭✭
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    Overthetopcongratulations!

  • WaterSport
    WaterSport Posts: 7,064 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    Absolutely glad for you - great set and a great final "bigge" to top it off.

    WS

    Proud recipient of the coveted PCGS Forum "You Suck" Award Thursday July 19, 2007 11:33 PM and December 30th, 2011 at 8:50 PM.
  • LukeMarshall
    LukeMarshall Posts: 2,212 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    Congrats on completing the set, the 21-s looks great and I’m sure the rest of your collection looks great as well.

    It's all about what the people want...

  • joeykoins
    joeykoins Posts: 18,845 ✭✭✭✭✭
    edited December 14, 2021 12:36PM
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    Wow! What a goal you set out for yourself.
    The best part, you achieved it! Very awesome. It's great you didn't let anything hinder you. Like you mentioned, not only in your patience but your thinking about the financial aspects. So glad for you. This is what this, "Hobby of Kings", is all about. Satisfaction by the collector. You inspired us all, at least myself.
    Now, go and start hunting for all those varieties in the Walker Series! :D
    Congratulations :)

    "Jesus died for you and for me, Thank you,Jesus"!!!

    --- If it should happen I die and leave this world and you want to remember me. Please only remember my opening Sig Line.
  • rmorgan
    rmorgan Posts: 249 ✭✭✭✭
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    Congrats! The Walker is my favorite design, and I know how expensive this set can be to complete with quality specimens.

    Your sixteen year journey is a testament to being persistent and long-term with one's goals.

    My strategy is about collecting what I intend to keep, not investing in what I plan to sell.

  • bolivarshagnasty
    bolivarshagnasty Posts: 7,359 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    Super solid example to finish your set. Big Congratulations!

  • calgolddiver
    calgolddiver Posts: 1,803 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    congratulations on completing your Quest ...

    Top 15 Type Set 1792 to present

    Top 10 Cal Fractional Type Set

    successful BST with Ankurj, BigAl, Bullsitter, CommemKing, DCW(7), DesertMoon, Downtown1974, Elmerfusterpuck, Joelewis, Mach1ne, Minuteman810430, Modcrewman, Nankraut, Nederveit2, Philographer(5), Proofcollection, Realgator, Silverpop, SurfinxHI, TomB and Yorkshireman(3)

  • WAYNEAS
    WAYNEAS Posts: 7,271 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    I can feel your adrenalin flow.
    Congrats.
    Wayne

    Kennedys are my quest...

  • SkyMan
    SkyMan Posts: 9,605 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    CONGRATULATIONS on completing the set!!! It's a lovely piece!!!

  • Walkerfan
    Walkerfan Posts: 10,391 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    @joeykoins Thanks!! :) The hinderance aspect was more searching for the top quality examples within my optimal grade range. I always looked for the best that I could find and turned down countless others. I was quite the Walker snob! LOL Maybe, now, I'll start a Walker Proof set? Only seven coins there. LOL ;) I dunno....That's just an idea. No plans at the current time...I'm just glad to be done. It is very satisfying.

    Sometimes, it’s better to be LUCKY than good. 🍀 🍺👍

    My Full Walker Registry Set (1916-1947):

    https://www.ngccoin.com/registry/competitive-sets/16292/

  • BuffaloIronTail
    BuffaloIronTail Posts: 7,765 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    @J2035 said:
    Love the 1921-S - absolutely stunning. Congrats on the set completion!

    It even looks like it has a split finger instead of a clam. Yeppers. Real nice.

    Pete

    "I tell them there's no problems.....only solutions" - John Lennon
  • coinnut
    coinnut Posts: 1,434 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    Congratulations on a major accomplishment! I can appreciate the dedication it took to complete a set like that as I completed my large cent collection a few years ago. A lot of work but the hunt was fun.

  • Walkerfan
    Walkerfan Posts: 10,391 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    @BuffaloIronTail said:

    @J2035 said:
    Love the 1921-S - absolutely stunning. Congrats on the set completion!

    It even looks like it has a split finger instead of a clam. Yeppers. Real nice.

    Pete

    Thanks!! That was very appealing to me, as well. I noticed it, right away.

    Sometimes, it’s better to be LUCKY than good. 🍀 🍺👍

    My Full Walker Registry Set (1916-1947):

    https://www.ngccoin.com/registry/competitive-sets/16292/

  • keets
    keets Posts: 25,351 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    It is an NGC XF 45, so it is not a mint state example like the rest of my set. HOWEVER, I feel that this piece matches well, in quality

    it always feels good to complete a goal set a long time ago, so congratulations. now, do what I did: look at your 21-S and squint just enough to cover up the obvious wear and it'll fit in even better!!! :p I doubt you'll stop chasing Walkers so I hope you find your MS 21-S to REALLY complete the set.

  • CoinJunkie
    CoinJunkie Posts: 8,772 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    Congratulations on a major achievement!! I recall how excited and fulfilled I felt when I completed my toned Roosie set to my standards, after a twenty year period of vigilant searching.

    So whatcha gonna do now? B)

  • fcloud
    fcloud Posts: 12,133 ✭✭✭✭
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    Congratulations. Now the quandary of what to do next. Have fun with your new adventure.

    President, Racine Numismatic Society 2013-2014; Variety Resource Dimes; See 6/8/12 CDN for my article on Winged Liberty Dimes; Ebay

  • ThreeCentSilverFL
    ThreeCentSilverFL Posts: 1,700 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    Fantastic completion!

  • Che_Grapes
    Che_Grapes Posts: 1,890 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    Now onto the franklins ...

    BTW isn’t the 1921 P also very rare and hard to get? That’s one I have been after for a long time, I’ve been trying to get a P mint 1921set, cent, dime, quarter and walker to go along with the 1921 Peace but that year is hard to get for anything - the dollar is the easiest one (and that one hard / pricy in MS 65 or above) - so congrats to you.

    Now you can sell the whole thing for a loss ;)
    (Kidding)

  • BryceM
    BryceM Posts: 11,940 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    A top 10 registry set in a heavily-collected series is a major accomplishment. Congrats!

  • david3142
    david3142 Posts: 3,693 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    Congratulations on your accomplishment and calling the journey with a great example of a key date. I do hope that you will share your set with pictures and the insights you have gained along the way. I think it would make for excellent reading and a valuable resource on this forum. I love the Walker design and I look forward to learning from your experience.

    Are you planning to keep upgrading the set?

  • Walkerfan
    Walkerfan Posts: 10,391 ✭✭✭✭✭
    edited April 27, 2023 9:07AM
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    @keets said:
    It is an NGC XF 45, so it is not a mint state example like the rest of my set. HOWEVER, I feel that this piece matches well, in quality

    it always feels good to complete a goal set a long time ago, so congratulations. now, do what I did: look at your 21-S and squint just enough to cover up the obvious wear and it'll fit in even better!!! :p I doubt you'll stop chasing Walkers so I hope you find your MS 21-S to REALLY complete the set.

    You are a FOOL if you FAIL to see the absolute scarcity, condition rarity, quality and uncompromising originality of this 1921-S half. This is an exceptional piece. Like I said...I MAY upgrade it SOMEDAY but, for now, I am delighted and feel extremely fortunate to own this piece. Thanks.

    Sometimes, it’s better to be LUCKY than good. 🍀 🍺👍

    My Full Walker Registry Set (1916-1947):

    https://www.ngccoin.com/registry/competitive-sets/16292/

  • jmlanzaf
    jmlanzaf Posts: 43,046 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    Congratulations!

    All comments reflect the opinion of the author, even when irrefutably accurate.

  • Dave99B
    Dave99B Posts: 8,947 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    Congratulations on this amazing set. What an accomplishment!

    Love the 21-s. Sooooooo original.

    Dave

    Always looking for original, better date VF20-VF35 Barber quarters and halves, and a quality beer.
  • stman
    stman Posts: 11,352 ✭✭✭✭✭
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    Congratulations!

    Please... Save The Stories, Just Answer My Questions, And Tell Me How Much!!!!!

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