What Methods are Used to "Crack-out" a Coin?

CoinValuesResearcher

As we all know, sometimes coin owners will "crack-out" a slabbed coin and re-submit it to a grading service, in the hopes of obtaining a higher grade. In certain cases, getting a higher grade by even a single point can elevate the book value of a coin by hundreds, if not thousands of dollars.

What methods do coin crack-out practitioners employ to get the coin removed without damaging the coin?

BAJJERFAN

Hammers, vises, tin snips or other wire-cutting pliers mostly. Everyone has their own "way". At home I use a vise; away from home I would use the pliers.

PerryHall

There have been many threads on this topic. Do a search. I prefer to use a vice. Others prefer to use a hammer. And even others use cutters or saws.

Connecticoin

A few sharp raps on each side of the holder, with the bottom of the holder on a concrete surface works best for me -- the holder usually opens up like a book after that.

I used to use a C-clamp, but the hammer method is much easier.

bonkrood

Lay flat on a train track (The coin, not yourself), and hope that it may look like some kind of brokage or clip error after the train goes by. Also if holding the slab on edge, be sure to remove your hand before the train does.

TorinoCobra71

A time old tradition.....Bench Vice and a Bar Towel to wrap the slab in......

TC71

MrHalfDime

We've had so many threads on this subject, but the responses just seem to get better and better:

"Lay flat on a train track (The coin, not yourself), and hope that it may look like some kind of brokage or clip error after the train goes by. Also if holding the slab on edge, be sure to remove your hand before the train does."

100proof1957

this works !

Text

LincolnCentMan

Hammer. I usually place one side of the slab against a cement slab and hammer the opposite side. I turn the slab and hammer all the way around it (wear eye protection.) It splits the slab down the seam.

David

CoinValuesResearcher

Thank you all for your replies.

I deeply apologize for not doing a search prior to initiating this thread. The thought of doing so didn't even cross my mind, but you can bet this newbie won't make that mistake again!

Hope you all have a good day.

Cladiator

Small bolt cutters will pop a PCGS slab like there is no tomorrow, works beautifully. A hammer slamming down on the side of an NGC slab opens it up like a door on a hinge.

Djord

Hammer and screwdriver. I work the screwdriver around all the edges and hammer until it comes apart.
Have not damaged one yet.

MajorDuty

I'm surprised at the complete lack of use of power tools. In all the threads I've read about this topic I keep reading about hammers and such.

Has no one access to a ban saw? Why pound on the slab with a hammer like a caveman when you can slice through it like butter with power tools?

BlindedByEgo

One size fits all :

JJM

Saw, vises , flathead screwdiver, steady hands

everycoin i've crackouted is still "free"

66RB

<< <i>this works !

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sadysta1

WEAR safety glasses, trust me

ar18

wire cutters