need assistance in finding a Crown.

Doogy

man, i've looked high and low for a nice 1888 Great Britain Crown, in MS63 and up condition. I can't seem to find one anywhere! I've seen cleaned ones, nasty ones, bent ones, sliders, and everything in between. Anyone know a source (US or Europe, no preference) for one? thanks for any input!


Doug

trozau

You can ask Bruce Lorich, but it'll cost you.

MacCrimmon

Why 1888?

That's a tough year. NGC has only graded 4 crowns of that date: 1-MS62, 1-MS63, & 2-MS64s. I'd bet the two MS64s are the only ones close to 63PQ. PCGS has only graded a single MS63, and 2-MS62s.

The only date less certified between the top 2 TPGs is 1890; only 4 total. You'll count 5, but one is a crossover which is still in the pops.


I've seen cleaned ones, nasty ones, bent ones, sliders, and everything in between.

Yep, you have been looking. That is certainly the norm. Jubilee crowns are a very heavily abused lot, and finding truly choice unc. Old Heads is no trivial task either.

I don't know that I've ever seen anything other than an 1887 crown on offer from Lorich in the last 5 years (maybe an 1892 once), but it wouldn't hurt to ask......and yes, it will "cost".

Good luck in the hunt.

MacCrimmon

Also, your best bet for finding any of these is to have active dealers working your want list.

You can also try our own MrEureka, Northeast Numismatics, and Karl Stephens. Also, watch all the auctions, but make sure a set of trusted eyes are viewing the crowns on your behalf.

coinkat

I never thought of 1888 as a rare date in 63... but then again, I have not searched for one