I did quite well, although I did pay moon money for a few coins. In addition to upgrading 7 dates, I also managed to fill 10 holes in the latest incarnation of my VF-XF set. All coins are original and crusty just as I like 'em to be!
A note about the auction... a few of the semi-key dates in the XF45 run didn't just go for moon money; they went for OBSCENE money. In addition to the aforementioned 1893 and 1902-O, the 1905 XF45 went for $1610.00 whereas the AU58 of the same date went for over $500 less @ $1092.50. Go figure.
And, Ken, I love your 03-S NEWP. You and I have discussed the 93-S date ad nauseum so you know it's my favorite date too. Great score there. At one time I also had a mini-hoard of that date.
I didn't make the show, but from the auction on the Barber side of things, I was successful on the 1893-O Barber Dime in P58 (10126) and the 1903-O Barber Quarter in P55 (10365)
“We are only their care-takers,” he posed, “if we take good care of them, then centuries from now they may still be here … ”
Ken: Gotta say the 93-S & 03-S are very nice !! The 97-S needs to be reshot - I'm sure its a cool coin; BTW - there are NO 1897-S's in AU 58... I can't find one in any holder - or raw for that matter - that would holder at PCGS as an AU 58. Looks like a MS may be in order.
Todd: I'll check out your NEWPS - both sound nice.
Cary, et al: The story behind the 1905-P in 45 paid the price of admission to get the coin in to that winning collector's collection. $1400 plus 15% is very hefty a price however especially since a great looking AU 58 sold for $950 plus 15%.
I agree with the consencus of opinions on the XF 45 coins; each coin was discussed by myself with the former owner as well as the consignor. The sheer ability to assemble an XF 45 set [ regardless whether some were 40.9 - 42.5 - 45.9 - 47.5 - or - 50.1 ] is to be commended - and I am personally thrilled that my good friend DrPete did so well with his consignment.
Regardless of what Non-Barberites say - we all know the scarcity of these truly rare coins.
It was great meeting so many friends in person: JMW, Cratylus, NewBarberGuy, Dave Taylor at the BCCS meeting, MessyDesk TomB and Bill Jones.
It was also great seeing old friends again as well: Stone, Dimeman, DrPete, Dennis88, Ponyexpress8, Lizzie and company, Blu62Vette, coinkid855, Yellowkid and Walkerman21D. I just got back home - so - in case I forgot anyone, I'm sorry.
From "the other side of the aisle" - my impression was that Gold ruled the week. I had a full case of great looking mid range grades of Barber Halves and only sold a half dozen coins. I still have to chuckle with the Grey-Sheeters: they still have their heads up their Butts when it comes to buying these coins expecting to pay Bid - even on the most common date. I have bitten my tounge many times this week - but politely informing the collectors with GS that the infor- mation isn't worth the paper its printed on. Immediately after the XF45 auction - I adjusted pricing up and down. Also, early Walkers were in great demand in AU.
I on the other hand had an interesting smattering of newps: a 1921 Pilgrim in 65; 1921 Missouri Plain in 64; 1921 Buffalo in 61 Mint error w/ 7% O/C; 1902 Cent in 62 Bn Broadstruck; 1998 Cent PCGS 64 Off Metal on Dime Planchlet ; 1924 SLQ in 64FH; 1928-S SLQ in 64 "almost" FH; 1905 Quarter in MS 64 - OGH 1st Gen. Holder with fantastic toning. I still need to have these professionally imaged.
However, the prize of the week was a fantastic 1796 Early Dime in PCGS 25 that is a JR3 - R5 which has the most amazing rim toning acquired over many years of being in a Waite Raymond album. [ Thanks again Stone for attributing it ].
Here's the B&M image of my new 1905 Quarter:
Sorry if this wandered away from strictly Barbers.
Mike Hayes ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Coin collecting is not a hobby, it's an obsession !
Here's a newp. Just a tad of the toning on the cheeks has a few hairlines jostling through it, but there is no wear, and otherwise no heavy marks or disturbances. Full amazing luster, believe it or not. I appreciate the toning immensely, but cannot say I am in love with the amount of it. It is a date I am pleased to have in a grade above the 2 XF's I've previously owned. I should have imaged it out of it's plastic flip.
We're all born MS70. I'm about a Fine 15 right now.
Lucanus/Doug, Welcome to the world of Barber Half Dollars...prices for these coins exceed Grey Sheet and PCGS Price Guides (among many others) who have failed to adjust their prices commensurate with demand and obvious auction circles. Many of the mid-grade Barber Halves witnessed for auction at the FUN Auction in Tampa were auctioned at premium prices...which you will likely NOT see again...but because of their rarity...their pedigree...and association with a very likeable character...they went for top bids. We'll see where mid-grades go...I suspect that because of the enormous demand for these coins we will likely see previously unknown or unattributed coins hit the market. I also suspect that as these coins hit the market they will draw less attention and less money--we'll see a settling of the market...perhaps to more affordable pocket books...but still expensive. We just need PCGS (among many others) to adjust their consumer prices to reflect reality. Nonetheless, the low population grades will still demand a premium (such as the 97-S, 96-O, 97-O, 05-O, 96-S, 02-S, 05-P, 93-S, 92-S, 01-S, 98-O, 92-O, 10-S, 08-S, 07-S, and many, many, many, many, others) and will require one to dig deep to secure one of these coins...similar to the FUN in Tampa. I wish you luck.
Here is one of several nice quarters from the FUN show. A great opportunity to meet many other Barber guys. A special thanks to Mike for making one of the new guys feel welcome.
Joe - Thanks - I have been looking forward to meet you and am glad you enjoyed yourself; seems like yesterday that we discussed your attending - and if it wern't for the fact that your wife's sister lived in Cape Coral - you very well may have not been there.
I was very happy to have finally met so many Forum members; and after years of PM's - its great to put a face with a name.
If it wern't for Facebook - I would never have known what Cratylus looked like. He was the easiest to spot. Its funny, really, one gets a certain image in their head as to what some one looks like - and upon meeting them - they are usually completly different from your mental image.
Mike Hayes ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Coin collecting is not a hobby, it's an obsession !
I was very surprised and pleased with how well the EF 45 barber halves did at the Heritage FUN auction. As has been pointed out above, the quality of coins that end up in EF 45 holders varies, sometimes surprisingly so, and Craig Petersen did a yeomen's job putting this set together with the examples he could find; some of them were much nicer than others, vide supra. Putting the set together with premium quality examples of every date would be impossible, or nearly so. As it is/was, PCGS has only graded something like 900 barber halves as EF 45, and this auction had over 75 of them, meaning that over 8% of all such coins currently graded were in this one auction. That is an amazing percentage of the available graded coins (clearly there are other examples out there not currently graded, of course, and I think more will be sent in given the auction prices realized).
I have to think that having an entire set available at one time at auction generated a lot more interest in these coins than if they were sold one at a time or in smaller batches. Many price records must have been set by this auction, although I don't know if anyone really keeps such records. My take is that other similar coins will do well in the future as there seems to be a strong demand for coins in this condition, and not that many examples are available. I suspect that Heritage chose the only two coins (97-oO and 04-S) they valued over $1000 for the main auction, and relegated the rest to their "internet auction." They underestimated how many coins would ultimately sell for over $1000 with the buyer's premium (eight rather than two if my calculations are correct).
I was hoping to see price increases in price guides after the auction, and it is too early to tell; it creates a problem for PCGS and others as they list prices for EF 40, EF45, AU 50, AU 55, AU 58 and the values they list for some of the higher grades are less than what some of the coins from the Heritage Auction brought. We will see what happens. Congratulations to all who obtained nice pieces from this sale.
I just wanted to post this (again) because I'm just so freakin' proud of it! It's my first $1000+ coin ever, and since Liberty nickels are my favorite series, this is somewhat of a "dream coin" for me. Not just because of the date but also because it is such a nice example. Much better than most I have seen in higher grades.
Best regards, Dwayne F. Sessom Ebay ID: V-Nickel-Coins
Dr Pete, I picked up the 1898 and 06-D, I know its a common date (98) but I couldnt find one for over a year above F-15. Waiting for it to arrive !!!!!!!!!
newbarberguy, thanks for the welcome and your take on the current market and pricing of barber halves. My interest in barber halves is secondary to my barber quarter passion! Barber half prices are somewhat similar to those for seated liberty coins, quarters in particular. Tough coins in both series sell at levels which are quite often multiples of current price listings. I don't think price guides will be adjusted adequately to reflect the strong prices realized in the Heritage auction.
Dr. Pete, As a professional analyst by trade, I stayed up to the wee hours of Sunday morning analyzing coin prices from this auction. There were exactly 13 coins that sold (at realized prices) above $1000 and 10 other coins that sold above $800 (realized prices-an arbitrary number that seemed reasonable based on the overall results). There were also 12 coins that sold below the PCGS posted price (those that won these coins can enjoy a small victory). Although there were 12 coins that sold below PCGS Market Prices, my assessment is that overall, there is a strong demand for XF-45, PCGS certified coins (duh, are you kidding? Hmmm...a statement of the obvious). I think you made the right decision in auctioning them off at the same time...there was considerable interest and lucrative bidding...some of it emotional, but mostly because there were some absolutely terrific coins that became available!
Overall, this is good for the market. It reflects interest, demand, and rarity for some of these coins. Not only is this SURPRISING but for most of us that have been searching and hunting...this is the norm. As a result, I'm elated that they did so well.
However, I must confess. I have now completed my PCGS certified, XF-45 Barber Half Dollar collection by winning a few coins from the Petersen/Shireman collection. My collection in the Registry is hidden for now until I can get more acceptable photos posted...but I will post soonest when I'm comfortable with the presentation. Craig Petersen stimulated my interest in Barber Half Dollars while I was convalescing in January 2007...so it's been four years to complete this collection. I owe a lot to Craig and to Mike Hayes for their invaluable advice and insight over the years...they carried the "newbarberguy" along when we was so "ignorant" and "inquisitive"...as evidenced last Saturday when I met Mike for the first time. Mike is a stalwart in the industry and I have the utmost respect for his knowledge and judgement.
In sum, it was a terrific auction, and I'm glad that I was able to participate and complete a four-year endeavor. Regards to All, Dave
I haven't been in this thread for a little while so it is nice to read all the opinions and see the numerous newps that our small gang has gathered up. At the FUN show I met Cratylus and MFH for the first time and it was delightful to meet two more fine, educated folks who have a passion for our niche. I also viewed all the Barber halves in the Heritage sale and agree that Heritage underestimated the strength of our corner of the numismatic world with their decision to place nearly all the circulated halves in the internet only sale. I bid on several of the Barber halves in the sale and ended up winning the PCGS EF45 1892-S while also purchasing a wonderful PCGS VG10 1893-S with perfectly wonderful surfaces. The 1892-S is a little darker than the Heritage images and also a tad bit darker than my PCGS EF40 1893-S, but they make a fine pair.
Mike, you should have an image of your PCGS VF25 1796 dime posted as these are fine looking coins in that grade. I have the same date and grade in my collection, too.
We all started somewhere; I started collecting Barber Halves while in my Junior year of college with the prodding of a dorm mate who lived accross the hall from me. On our down time, he and I would scour SW Ohio looking up small "out of the way" coin shops - and my asking if they had any VG Barber Halves... sometimes we got lucky, and I would locate a VF 20 for a VG 8 price; my friend was a real pro in grading Barbers - and he taught me quite a bit. [ I believe he is a dealer in the Philadelphia area now. ] [ Carlton, if you're reading this, Thanks Again, Sonny !! LOL ]
Over the years, I assembled various graded sets, and once completed, I'd usually pull the favorite coin in the set as a starting point for the newest set.
I am through doing this however. I believe I have gotten my Half set to [ almost ] where I wanted it to go - actually higher than I thought possible. I wish I had located a few coins in 58 [ 1896-O, 1897-O & 97-S and the 1905-S ]. There are no 1897-S's in PC 58 ... and I have never found another in any holder or raw for that matter - that would holder at PCGS as an AU 58. I was about to pull the trigger on a MS 64 - but its getting a bit pricey these days for a 64.
I was soooo close to landing the 96-O in 58 - POP -TWO coin in PC 58; I bid MS 63 money at a HA auction - and I still didn't get it. That was a tough one to swallow. Even Harry Laibstain called me to ask if I actually had bid that much on the 96-O in 58. [ No wonder I don't flinch when he prices his merchandise out - eventually one of us will pull the trigger sooner or later.] I know some of the great coins in my set came from Harry - and although I may have paid top price at the time - I am very happy with all of my purchases from him.
My good friend DrPete has used Harry almost exclusively for years - and they have a wonderful business arrangement - and they are the best of friends. Trust is essential when dealing with a coin dealer, as we all realize. I have the same feeling about working with Glenn Holsonbake. Otherwise, I would not volunteer my time and services to assist him at the last two major shows [ Boston ANA & Tampa FUN ]. As time permits, I will be assisting him again at other locales.
At the moment, my Half Dollar set is as complete as it'll ever be. Click onto the link below. The vast majority of the images are from BluCCphotos - "Blu62Vette" - aka Todd Pollock.
My Barber Quarter collection is currently at Messy Desk's being imaged. The few images currently being shown in a side by side format are also the work of Messy Desk - aka John Baumgart.
My Nickel & Dime Collections are also imaged by Todd Pollock. I elected to go with simple OBV & REV shots instead of the side by side shots of the Halves and Quarters, although there are a few dual images taken of the more pricier coins.
I am so happy that there are many collectors following the Barber series; and everyone seems to have found their specific niche in each series. The competition for XF 45 Halves was going to be brisk, I knew it would be. I also knew Peter had made the right decision in selling en masse at this time. His discussion with me last Fall prompted me to consign my third Second Set with Glenn and the action was a precursor to the activity Peter received at FUN.
Its past my bed time - so - have a good evening - and Happy Hunting !
[ TomB: I will be having my newp 1796 Dime re-imaged sooner or later - have no fear ! ] I posted it ATS on the NEWP Thread... old Heritage images which are terrible.
Mike Hayes ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Coin collecting is not a hobby, it's an obsession !
Well, JMW, your Christmas present is being put to good use I see. The images are really good - and I know you'll be reshooting your coins when you get the chance.
Great pick ups at FUN. I saw the 1901-S Dime when Glenn picked up his winning lots. I thought it solid for the grade, congrats on nailing the 1901-S. Very difficult coin to locate in AU.
Check out the new images on the Half Dollar collection; all the MS coins were recently imaged. Next week, I should have all new images of my Quarters.
Mike Hayes ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Coin collecting is not a hobby, it's an obsession !
The highlight from the floor for me is this 1912-S nickel PCGS 55, from the Mike Hayes collection.
>>
I'm very pleased you were able to pick up your last needed Liberty Head nickel from me.
As I have incorporated so many other collections within my collection - there seems to be a trend with your incorporating so many of my coins with your sets.
Thanks for sharing the above image of my old friend. Here are the images I had BluCCphotos take:
As you have the coin now in hand - only you can determine which set of images is closer to the coin itself.
BTW - nice p/up's at FUN.
Mike Hayes ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Coin collecting is not a hobby, it's an obsession !
I received my latest CDN's yesterday in the mail, and the January 2011 Montly Supplement that lists barber half values in grades G through Mint state 65, had something like 43 increases in the EF/XF category. Most of these prices increased $10 but a few were as much as $20-25. They do not have a column for XF 45. Thus, the recent FUN auction prices appear to have been noticed, but only caused very minor bumps in the pricing in this guide. I have also looked at the PCGS price guide and see no increases as of yet.
After the dust settles somewhat more on the sale of the XF 45 set, I plan to do a write-up about these highly sought-after collector coins; not sure yet what venue that might be. Perhaps for Harry Laibstain's web site, since he has asked me to provide content to him.
Regarding the Heritage FUN auction sale, I submitted the ex-Petersen set of 73 coins as I received them from Craig almost 2 years ago, none were ever submitted to CAC. There were a few CAC coins in the same sale, a few were XF45, all came from one or more other consignors. I also had a few additional PCGS-graded coins in the sale as follows: 98-O XF45, 99 VF35 (bought raw as XF 40), 00 XF 45, 00-s XF 45, 09-O VF30, and 15 XF 40. These coins did very well, too.
Dr. Pete, I am now the proud owner of your 98-O and 99. The 98-O is one of the nicest mid-grade examples with "the look" that I've seen so I bid very strongly to get it. The 99 is definitely a "tweener" coin; it's slightly better than a VF35 but most would say it falls an eyelash short of full XF40. In my experience with PCGS and mid-grade Barbers, if a coin is a tweener and it has darker toning PCGS will give it the lower grade; if it's lighter in coloration PCGS will give it the higher grade. Not sure why that is, but it seems to be pretty consistent from what I've seen.
Glad you were able to pick up some coins you like. Both the 98-O halves in the sale were "made" by me. The coin eventually in Craig's set I bought raw and initially sent to NGC (it made XF 45) when I joined their collector's club and had "free" submissions. I sold it some time later on eBay and Mike Flanagan bought it and crossed it to PCGS. The other coin I picked up raw on eBay some years ago and just recently submitted it and got the XF 45 from PCGS. This second coin has a tiny rim cut on the reverse, but has lovely original dirty toning. The VF35 coin is one that could make XF 40 if re-submitted, but what's the point. The cost of submission is about $18 or so for a low-value coin and doing it multiple times makes no sense for a coin of its value. You did well, my friend!
I'm having some issues with Photobucket arbitrarily losing some of my uploaded images so I'm reposting the image of my NEWP 1901-S from FUN. Also shown is the other prize coin from my FUN experience, a 1905-O. A huge "Thank You" to Mike Hayes for selling both of them to me. They unquestionably will be two of the star coins in the newest incarnation of my mid-grade Barber Half collection.
Next: A link to the Barber of Seville on You Tube. ------------------------------------------------------------
A little wheeling and dealing between Oklahoma and Florida has been going on. I was able to pick up two upgrades for my 1883 N/C and 1900 Nickels.
I was able to send four coins for DSessom's set as well; he'll be receiving another 1883 N/C in 58, an 1888 in 58; 1900 in 55; 1903 in 58.
Basically a swap with cash coming to me.
Here are my two newps :
[ seller's images ]
The coins arrived today and am happy with them. The 1883 N/C is properly graded as a 64 [ the throat wound isn't that noticeable in hand ] and the 1900 is undergraded IMHO - it belongs in a MS 63 at the very least; the depression in front of Liberty is not noticable in hand either and even with a 5X loop.
Super large images are very detremental to the coin's overall appearance, IMO.
Thanks again, Dwayne !!
Mike Hayes ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Coin collecting is not a hobby, it's an obsession !
Interesting San Jose show tidbits. Got a nice original 02-s in VF from a dealer whose eye for barbers is really strong. First thing he said to me was that he has an 04-S Half I would want but it's not for sale! Apparently a 58 came in to a shop in a junk silver lot and he'd come in shortly thereafter, and paid greysheet 58 money to get it. He told me the B&M dealer contacted the junk depositor to relay news of a rare coin being found in the lot, but we can only hope. Also picked up a very nice raw 96-s half in XF, something I've not previously been able to obtain. Speaking of 96-s, there were 3 quarters of that date on the floor in 35-45, raw or genuine, but not in the least jacked up. There weren't even three 97-s quarters to be found in any grade. I'd say 4K pricetags on the 96-s keep them in foster care, but seeing that many at once was neat.
We're all born MS70. I'm about a Fine 15 right now.
<< <i>I'm having some issues with Photobucket arbitrarily losing some of my uploaded images so I'm reposting the image of my NEWP 1901-S from FUN. Also shown is the other prize coin from my FUN experience, a 1905-O. A huge "Thank You" to Mike Hayes for selling both of them to me. They unquestionably will be two of the star coins in the newest incarnation of my mid-grade Barber Half collection.
>>
And a very fine looking set it is !! I throughly enjoyed looking at your images. Nice work, BTW !!
Mike Hayes ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Coin collecting is not a hobby, it's an obsession !
Just a "Head's Up" for Quarter Collectors: [this isn't Spam !! ]
There is a decent MS [ PCGS 61 ] 1897-S Quarter on Teletrade this Sunday in case any one is looking for that date. Its the Far Right position MM - BTW.
We all know its a tough date and if it were an AU 58 - I'd be keeping this to myself .....
Mike Hayes ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Coin collecting is not a hobby, it's an obsession !
I finally have my website up and looking like I want it, so for all of you who like mid-grade Barber Halves, you can check out the link in my signature line. I wish I knew more about photography, because I get the feeling that my mediocre skills and camera aren't doing some of my coins justice! C'est la vie!
At any rate, I hope you enjoy some of the eye candy.
Cary, your site looks spectacular and I have it bookmarked. There are two trivial comments I have on it and the first is that it loaded slowly for me while the second is that I have never been a big fan of background music on websites, although I like the music you have chosen. By the way, thank you greatly for the acknowledgement.
<< <i>Cary, your site looks spectacular and I have it bookmarked. There are two trivial comments I have on it and the first is that it loaded slowly for me while the second is that I have never been a big fan of background music on websites, although I like the music you have chosen. By the way, thank you greatly for the acknowledgement. >>
Thanks, Tom. I know I was having some slow loading issues with the site a little earlier today and my hunch is that my web host may have been having some problems. The site seems to be loading better for me now. Regarding the music, there's a small "speaker" button in the bottom right corner of the page that turns the sound off and on. I generally agree with you about background music on websites; I wanted to give it a try temporarily to see how it goes over with people. I tried to pick some benign music that's not too irritating.
Cary, really nice site and what superb coins! Are they all PCGS? The uniformity is amazing. One criticism I have, and it's a minor one, is that I couldn't find where to get my shopping cart and how to take it to check-out.
No, really, look into that. Quick.
We're all born MS70. I'm about a Fine 15 right now.
Comments
<< <i>So how did everyone do at FUN? >>
I did quite well, although I did pay moon money for a few coins. In addition to upgrading 7 dates, I also managed to fill 10 holes in the latest incarnation of my VF-XF set. All coins are original and crusty just as I like 'em to be!
A note about the auction... a few of the semi-key dates in the XF45 run didn't just go for moon money; they went for OBSCENE money. In addition to the aforementioned 1893 and 1902-O, the 1905 XF45 went for $1610.00 whereas the AU58 of the same date went for over $500 less @ $1092.50. Go figure.
And, Ken, I love your 03-S NEWP. You and I have discussed the 93-S date ad nauseum so you know it's my favorite date too. Great score there. At one time I also had a mini-hoard of that date.
All look like very nice pickups USAFERTWI
The 03-S looks like a moose
I didn't make the show, but from the auction on the Barber side of things, I was successful on the 1893-O Barber Dime in P58 (10126) and the 1903-O Barber Quarter in P55 (10365)
“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
Ken: Gotta say the 93-S & 03-S are very nice !!
The 97-S needs to be reshot - I'm sure its a cool coin;
BTW - there are NO 1897-S's in AU 58... I can't find one
in any holder - or raw for that matter - that would holder
at PCGS as an AU 58. Looks like a MS may be in order.
Todd: I'll check out your NEWPS - both sound nice.
Cary, et al: The story behind the 1905-P in 45 paid the
price of admission to get the coin in to that winning collector's
collection. $1400 plus 15% is very hefty a price however
especially since a great looking AU 58 sold for $950 plus 15%.
I agree with the consencus of opinions on the XF 45 coins;
each coin was discussed by myself with the former owner
as well as the consignor. The sheer ability to assemble an XF 45
set [ regardless whether some were 40.9 - 42.5 - 45.9 - 47.5 -
or - 50.1 ] is to be commended - and I am personally thrilled
that my good friend DrPete did so well with his consignment.
Regardless of what Non-Barberites say - we all know the scarcity
of these truly rare coins.
It was great meeting so many friends in person: JMW, Cratylus,
NewBarberGuy, Dave Taylor at the BCCS meeting, MessyDesk
TomB and Bill Jones.
It was also great seeing old friends again as well: Stone, Dimeman,
DrPete, Dennis88, Ponyexpress8, Lizzie and company, Blu62Vette,
coinkid855, Yellowkid and Walkerman21D. I just got back home - so -
in case I forgot anyone, I'm sorry.
From "the other side of the aisle" - my impression was that Gold ruled the
week. I had a full case of great looking mid range grades of Barber Halves
and only sold a half dozen coins. I still have to chuckle with the Grey-Sheeters:
they still have their heads up their Butts when it comes to buying these coins
expecting to pay Bid - even on the most common date. I have bitten my tounge
many times this week - but politely informing the collectors with GS that the infor-
mation isn't worth the paper its printed on. Immediately after the XF45 auction -
I adjusted pricing up and down. Also, early Walkers were in great demand in AU.
I on the other hand had an interesting smattering of newps: a 1921 Pilgrim in 65;
1921 Missouri Plain in 64; 1921 Buffalo in 61 Mint error w/ 7% O/C; 1902 Cent
in 62 Bn Broadstruck; 1998 Cent PCGS 64 Off Metal on Dime Planchlet ;
1924 SLQ in 64FH; 1928-S SLQ in 64 "almost" FH; 1905 Quarter in MS 64 -
OGH 1st Gen. Holder with fantastic toning. I still need to have these professionally imaged.
However, the prize of the week was a fantastic 1796 Early Dime in PCGS 25
that is a JR3 - R5 which has the most amazing rim toning acquired over many
years of being in a Waite Raymond album. [ Thanks again Stone for attributing it ].
Here's the B&M image of my new 1905 Quarter:
Sorry if this wandered away from strictly Barbers.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Coin collecting is not a hobby, it's an obsession !
New Barber Purchases
But you should share the 1796 Dime with everyone when you get an image of it.
It's a great coin, and very strong for the grade.
Stone - PM sent with an old image.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Coin collecting is not a hobby, it's an obsession !
New Barber Purchases
Just a tad of the toning on the cheeks has a few hairlines jostling through it, but there is no wear, and otherwise no heavy marks or disturbances.
Full amazing luster, believe it or not.
I appreciate the toning immensely, but cannot say I am in love with the amount of it.
It is a date I am pleased to have in a grade above the 2 XF's I've previously owned.
I should have imaged it out of it's plastic flip.
Welcome to the world of Barber Half Dollars...prices for these coins exceed Grey Sheet and PCGS Price Guides (among many others) who have failed to adjust their prices commensurate with demand and obvious auction circles. Many of the mid-grade Barber Halves witnessed for auction at the FUN Auction in Tampa were auctioned at premium prices...which you will likely NOT see again...but because of their rarity...their pedigree...and association with a very likeable character...they went for top bids. We'll see where mid-grades go...I suspect that because of the enormous demand for these coins we will likely see previously unknown or unattributed coins hit the market. I also suspect that as these coins hit the market they will draw less attention and less money--we'll see a settling of the market...perhaps to more affordable pocket books...but still expensive. We just need PCGS (among many others) to adjust their consumer prices to reflect reality. Nonetheless, the low population grades will still demand a premium (such as the 97-S, 96-O, 97-O, 05-O, 96-S, 02-S, 05-P, 93-S, 92-S, 01-S, 98-O, 92-O, 10-S, 08-S, 07-S, and many, many, many, many, others) and will require one to dig deep to secure one of these coins...similar to the FUN in Tampa. I wish you luck.
You have a delightful 08-S...very nice and desirable...congratulations!
A special thanks to Mike for making one of the new guys feel welcome.
Joe - Thanks - I have been looking forward to meet you
and am glad you enjoyed yourself; seems like yesterday
that we discussed your attending - and if it wern't for the
fact that your wife's sister lived in Cape Coral - you very
well may have not been there.
I was very happy to have finally met so many Forum members;
and after years of PM's - its great to put a face with a name.
If it wern't for Facebook - I would never have known what
Cratylus looked like. He was the easiest to spot. Its funny,
really, one gets a certain image in their head as to what some
one looks like - and upon meeting them - they are usually
completly different from your mental image.
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Coin collecting is not a hobby, it's an obsession !
New Barber Purchases
I have to think that having an entire set available at one time at auction generated a lot more interest in these coins than if they were sold one at a time or in smaller batches. Many price records must have been set by this auction, although I don't know if anyone really keeps such records. My take is that other similar coins will do well in the future as there seems to be a strong demand for coins in this condition, and not that many examples are available. I suspect that Heritage chose the only two coins (97-oO and 04-S) they valued over $1000 for the main auction, and relegated the rest to their "internet auction." They underestimated how many coins would ultimately sell for over $1000 with the buyer's premium (eight rather than two if my calculations are correct).
I was hoping to see price increases in price guides after the auction, and it is too early to tell; it creates a problem for PCGS and others as they list prices for EF 40, EF45, AU 50, AU 55, AU 58 and the values they list for some of the higher grades are less than what some of the coins from the Heritage Auction brought. We will see what happens. Congratulations to all who obtained nice pieces from this sale.
It's my first $1000+ coin ever, and since Liberty nickels are my favorite series, this is somewhat of a "dream coin" for me. Not just because of the date but also because it is such a nice example. Much better than most I have seen in higher grades.
Dwayne F. Sessom
Ebay ID: V-Nickel-Coins
Doug
As a professional analyst by trade, I stayed up to the wee hours of Sunday morning analyzing coin prices from this auction. There were exactly 13 coins that sold (at realized prices) above $1000 and 10 other coins that sold above $800 (realized prices-an arbitrary number that seemed reasonable based on the overall results). There were also 12 coins that sold below the PCGS posted price (those that won these coins can enjoy a small victory). Although there were 12 coins that sold below PCGS Market Prices, my assessment is that overall, there is a strong demand for XF-45, PCGS certified coins (duh, are you kidding? Hmmm...a statement of the obvious). I think you made the right decision in auctioning them off at the same time...there was considerable interest and lucrative bidding...some of it emotional, but mostly because there were some absolutely terrific coins that became available!
Overall, this is good for the market. It reflects interest, demand, and rarity for some of these coins. Not only is this SURPRISING but for most of us that have been searching and hunting...this is the norm. As a result, I'm elated that they did so well.
However, I must confess. I have now completed my PCGS certified, XF-45 Barber Half Dollar collection by winning a few coins from the Petersen/Shireman collection. My collection in the Registry is hidden for now until I can get more acceptable photos posted...but I will post soonest when I'm comfortable with the presentation. Craig Petersen stimulated my interest in Barber Half Dollars while I was convalescing in January 2007...so it's been four years to complete this collection. I owe a lot to Craig and to Mike Hayes for their invaluable advice and insight over the years...they carried the "newbarberguy" along when we was so "ignorant" and "inquisitive"...as evidenced last Saturday when I met Mike for the first time. Mike is a stalwart in the industry and I have the utmost respect for his knowledge and judgement.
In sum, it was a terrific auction, and I'm glad that I was able to participate and complete a four-year endeavor.
Regards to All,
Dave
Mike, you should have an image of your PCGS VF25 1796 dime posted as these are fine looking coins in that grade. I have the same date and grade in my collection, too.
In honor of the memory of Cpl. Michael E. Thompson
Dave and Tom,
Thanks for the kind words.
We all started somewhere; I started collecting Barber Halves
while in my Junior year of college with the prodding of a dorm
mate who lived accross the hall from me. On our down time,
he and I would scour SW Ohio looking up small "out of the way"
coin shops - and my asking if they had any VG Barber Halves...
sometimes we got lucky, and I would locate a VF 20 for a VG 8 price;
my friend was a real pro in grading Barbers - and he taught me quite a bit.
[ I believe he is a dealer in the Philadelphia area now. ] [ Carlton, if you're
reading this, Thanks Again, Sonny !! LOL ]
Over the years, I assembled various graded sets, and once completed,
I'd usually pull the favorite coin in the set as a starting point for the
newest set.
I am through doing this however. I believe I have gotten my Half set to
[ almost ] where I wanted it to go - actually higher than I thought possible.
I wish I had located a few coins in 58 [ 1896-O, 1897-O & 97-S and the 1905-S ].
There are no 1897-S's in PC 58 ... and I have never found another in any holder
or raw for that matter - that would holder at PCGS as an AU 58. I was about to
pull the trigger on a MS 64 - but its getting a bit pricey these days for a 64.
I was soooo close to landing the 96-O in 58 - POP -TWO coin in PC 58; I bid MS 63
money at a HA auction - and I still didn't get it. That was a tough one to swallow.
Even Harry Laibstain called me to ask if I actually had bid that much on the 96-O in 58.
[ No wonder I don't flinch when he prices his merchandise out - eventually one of
us will pull the trigger sooner or later.] I know some of the great coins in my set came
from Harry - and although I may have paid top price at the time - I am very happy with
all of my purchases from him.
My good friend DrPete has used Harry almost exclusively for years - and they have a
wonderful business arrangement - and they are the best of friends. Trust is essential
when dealing with a coin dealer, as we all realize. I have the same feeling about working
with Glenn Holsonbake. Otherwise, I would not volunteer my time and services to assist
him at the last two major shows [ Boston ANA & Tampa FUN ]. As time permits, I will be
assisting him again at other locales.
At the moment, my Half Dollar set is as complete as it'll ever be. Click onto the link below.
The vast majority of the images are from BluCCphotos - "Blu62Vette" - aka Todd Pollock.
My Barber Quarter collection is currently at Messy Desk's being imaged. The few images currently
being shown in a side by side format are also the work of Messy Desk - aka John Baumgart.
My Nickel & Dime Collections are also imaged by Todd Pollock. I elected to go with simple OBV & REV shots
instead of the side by side shots of the Halves and Quarters, although there are a few dual images
taken of the more pricier coins.
I am so happy that there are many collectors following the Barber series; and everyone seems to
have found their specific niche in each series. The competition for XF 45 Halves was going to be brisk,
I knew it would be. I also knew Peter had made the right decision in selling en masse at this time.
His discussion with me last Fall prompted me to consign my third Second Set with Glenn and the
action was a precursor to the activity Peter received at FUN.
Its past my bed time - so - have a good evening - and Happy Hunting !
[ TomB: I will be having my newp 1796 Dime re-imaged sooner or later - have no fear ! ]
I posted it ATS on the NEWP Thread... old Heritage images which are terrible.
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Coin collecting is not a hobby, it's an obsession !
New Barber Purchases
Well, JMW, your Christmas present is being put to good use I see.
The images are really good - and I know you'll be reshooting your
coins when you get the chance.
Great pick ups at FUN. I saw the 1901-S Dime when Glenn picked up
his winning lots. I thought it solid for the grade, congrats on nailing
the 1901-S. Very difficult coin to locate in AU.
Check out the new images on the Half Dollar collection; all the MS
coins were recently imaged. Next week, I should have all new images
of my Quarters.
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Coin collecting is not a hobby, it's an obsession !
New Barber Purchases
I edited each image in Photobucket (they are both 400x400) and now the reverse is probably OK but the obverse didn't change.
A couple of purchases from FUN, a raw quarter, very original.
The highlight from the floor for me is this 1912-S nickel PCGS 55, from the Mike Hayes collection.
<< <i>
The highlight from the floor for me is this 1912-S nickel PCGS 55, from the Mike Hayes collection.
I'm very pleased you were able to pick up
your last needed Liberty Head nickel from me.
As I have incorporated so many other collections
within my collection - there seems to be a trend with
your incorporating so many of my coins with your sets.
Thanks for sharing the above image of my old friend.
Here are the images I had BluCCphotos take:
As you have the coin now in hand - only you can
determine which set of images is closer to the coin itself.
BTW - nice p/up's at FUN.
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Coin collecting is not a hobby, it's an obsession !
New Barber Purchases
Based on the images that's the finest mid-grade example I've ever seen.
Glad you like her, Cary.
I thought it was a very nice example myself.
It was one of the hold outs from the large
consignment that I gave Ponyexpress8.
I know its got a good home now !!
[ I had images of the coin but I like
your's better Cary... nice job !! ]
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Coin collecting is not a hobby, it's an obsession !
New Barber Purchases
After the dust settles somewhat more on the sale of the XF 45 set, I plan to do a write-up about these highly sought-after collector coins; not sure yet what venue that might be. Perhaps for Harry Laibstain's web site, since he has asked me to provide content to him.
Regarding the Heritage FUN auction sale, I submitted the ex-Petersen set of 73 coins as I received them from Craig almost 2 years ago, none were ever submitted to CAC. There were a few CAC coins in the same sale, a few were XF45, all came from one or more other consignors. I also had a few additional PCGS-graded coins in the sale as follows: 98-O XF45, 99 VF35 (bought raw as XF 40), 00 XF 45, 00-s XF 45, 09-O VF30, and 15 XF 40. These coins did very well, too.
I am now the proud owner of your 98-O and 99. The 98-O is one of the nicest mid-grade examples with "the look" that I've seen so I bid very strongly to get it. The 99 is definitely a "tweener" coin; it's slightly better than a VF35 but most would say it falls an eyelash short of full XF40. In my experience with PCGS and mid-grade Barbers, if a coin is a tweener and it has darker toning PCGS will give it the lower grade; if it's lighter in coloration PCGS will give it the higher grade. Not sure why that is, but it seems to be pretty consistent from what I've seen.
Glad you were able to pick up some coins you like. Both the 98-O halves in the sale were "made" by me. The coin eventually in Craig's set I bought raw and initially sent to NGC (it made XF 45) when I joined their collector's club and had "free" submissions. I sold it some time later on eBay and Mike Flanagan bought it and crossed it to PCGS. The other coin I picked up raw on eBay some years ago and just recently submitted it and got the XF 45 from PCGS. This second coin has a tiny rim cut on the reverse, but has lovely original dirty toning. The VF35 coin is one that could make XF 40 if re-submitted, but what's the point. The cost of submission is about $18 or so for a low-value coin and doing it multiple times makes no sense for a coin of its value. You did well, my friend!
<< <i>Not mine but pretty: >>
Oh Wow! She's gorgeous!
In honor of the memory of Cpl. Michael E. Thompson
------------------------------------------------------------
A little wheeling and dealing between Oklahoma and
Florida has been going on. I was able to pick up two
upgrades for my 1883 N/C and 1900 Nickels.
I was able to send four coins for DSessom's set as well;
he'll be receiving another 1883 N/C in 58, an 1888 in 58;
1900 in 55; 1903 in 58.
Basically a swap with cash coming to me.
Here are my two newps :
[ seller's images ]
The coins arrived today and am happy with them. The 1883 N/C is properly graded as a 64 [ the throat wound isn't that
noticeable in hand ] and the 1900 is undergraded IMHO - it belongs in a MS 63 at the very least; the depression in front of
Liberty is not noticable in hand either and even with a 5X loop.
Super large images are very detremental to the coin's overall appearance, IMO.
Thanks again, Dwayne !!
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Coin collecting is not a hobby, it's an obsession !
New Barber Purchases
Good God, those were huge images... I have to turn down the volumne on that one...
Anyhow - I started a Thread - Link
and in the future, I'll be posting the images...
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Coin collecting is not a hobby, it's an obsession !
New Barber Purchases
Got a nice original 02-s in VF from a dealer whose eye for barbers is really strong. First thing he said to me was that he has an 04-S Half I would want but it's not for sale! Apparently a 58 came in to a shop in a junk silver lot and he'd come in shortly thereafter, and paid greysheet 58 money to get it. He told me the B&M dealer contacted the junk depositor to relay news of a rare coin being found in the lot, but we can only hope.
Also picked up a very nice raw 96-s half in XF, something I've not previously been able to obtain.
Speaking of 96-s, there were 3 quarters of that date on the floor in 35-45, raw or genuine, but not in the least jacked up. There weren't even three 97-s quarters to be found in any grade. I'd say 4K pricetags on the 96-s keep them in foster care, but seeing that many at once was neat.
<< <i>I'm having some issues with Photobucket arbitrarily losing some of my uploaded images so I'm reposting the image of my NEWP 1901-S from FUN. Also shown is the other prize coin from my FUN experience, a 1905-O. A huge "Thank You" to Mike Hayes for selling both of them to me. They unquestionably will be two of the star coins in the newest incarnation of my mid-grade Barber Half collection.
And a very fine looking set it is !! I throughly enjoyed looking at your images. Nice work, BTW !!
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Coin collecting is not a hobby, it's an obsession !
New Barber Purchases
>>>My Collection
Just a "Head's Up" for Quarter Collectors:
[this isn't Spam !! ]
There is a decent MS [ PCGS 61 ] 1897-S Quarter on Teletrade this Sunday
in case any one is looking for that date. Its the Far Right position MM - BTW.
We all know its a tough date and if it were an AU 58 - I'd be keeping this to myself .....
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Coin collecting is not a hobby, it's an obsession !
New Barber Purchases
At any rate, I hope you enjoy some of the eye candy.
In honor of the memory of Cpl. Michael E. Thompson
<< <i>Cary, your site looks spectacular and I have it bookmarked. There are two trivial comments I have on it and the first is that it loaded slowly for me while the second is that I have never been a big fan of background music on websites, although I like the music you have chosen. By the way, thank you greatly for the acknowledgement. >>
Thanks, Tom. I know I was having some slow loading issues with the site a little earlier today and my hunch is that my web host may have been having some problems. The site seems to be loading better for me now. Regarding the music, there's a small "speaker" button in the bottom right corner of the page that turns the sound off and on. I generally agree with you about background music on websites; I wanted to give it a try temporarily to see how it goes over with people. I tried to pick some benign music that's not too irritating.
One criticism I have, and it's a minor one, is that I couldn't find where to get my shopping cart and how to take it to check-out.
No, really, look into that. Quick.
Great job, Cary - as everyone seems to agree.
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Coin collecting is not a hobby, it's an obsession !
New Barber Purchases