1909 S VDB with major error question.

CommemKing

There is a local dealer that has a low MS 1909 S VDB with a major retained lamination right in the middle of the reverse. He is having a hard time selling it. I'm wondering what its worth. It is a raw coin. I'm wondering how much such a coin could bring if it were slabbed by PCGS in a mint error slab? Anybody know the value of such a coin or if there would be a good market for it?

oih82w8

Laminations, like just about any "irregularity" vary, some like 'em, some don't. I would not touch it UNLESS it was certified "problem free"...given a straight grade with no "details".



Do you have any images?

mingot

I have an old edition of the error coin encyclopedia that has a great write up about errors on key dates coins.



The gist was that they really don't appeal to anyone, as error collectors generally won't pay the key date premium and key date collectors generally want problem free (even if it's an error) coins.

seanq

Originally posted by: mingot
I have an old edition of the error coin encyclopedia that has a great write up about errors on key dates coins.

The gist was that they really don't appeal to anyone, as error collectors generally won't pay the key date premium and key date collectors generally want problem free (even if it's an error) coins.

This. I have heard key date errors referred to as "white elephants" for this exact reason. Laminations in particular are a hard sell as there are not a lot of error collectors specializing in them.

I can tell you that my avatar coin, a clipped 1909-S VDB in an NGC MS64RB holder, was purchased at a price right in line with normal coins for the grade, there was no premium nor penalty for the error.

Sean Reynolds

BillJones

First, as a collector, I would never buy a 1909-S-VDB raw. Since the grading services will put just about anything in a holder if it is genuine, there is no excuse not to get a frequently counterfeited key date like that certified.

Second what the others have said is true. Mint errors on coins like this lower the value and make the coin harder or much harder to sell.

Years ago I had a deal on a 1795 half cent that was in AU-58, no questions asked. The coin had very tiny planchet clip. It was sent to PCGS for grading. If it came back with the clip marked on the holder, the deal was off because that lowered the value. If the clip was not mentioned, the deal was on. The clip got no mention so I own the coin today.

291fifth

Laminations are market poison. Avoid them ... period.

CommemKing

Well said everyone. I will avoid this coin.