1982 Washington Half Dollar
2000 Bimetallic Library of Congress Eagle
2006 Reverse Proof Silver Eagle Dollar
2006-W Gold Proof Buffalo Fifty Dollar
I think this gets down to price point. The 1995-W and the $50 Buff may be beyond the range of the "average collector".
It's so hard to make lists like this. Fun. But it's hard.
I think it may be beyond the range of the average collector with average thinking, but one is perhaps not beyond the average collector with focused thinking. A 100 Greatest list needs to have some aspirational goal tied into it to make it worth thinking about and valuing.
I'd also add:
2009 UHR St. Gaudens Double Eagle
These are coins that I think many collectors would value and aspire to own.
There are already coins in this price range and much higher being mentioned like the 1955 DDO Cent.
Not really. You can get a 1955 DDO in the VF/XF range for $1200-$1400 ish. The 1 oz gold coins are going to be over $2000.
The reason I would include the DDO but not the 2009 UHR, for example, is that anyone who ever had a penny board dreamed of the DDO and the S-VDB. Very few people have a nostalgic longing for a 2009 UHR Saint. Most kids didn't even grow up dreaming of a 1907 High relief.
1982 Washington Half Dollar
2000 Bimetallic Library of Congress Eagle
2006 Reverse Proof Silver Eagle Dollar
2006-W Gold Proof Buffalo Fifty Dollar
I think this gets down to price point. The 1995-W and the $50 Buff may be beyond the range of the "average collector".
It's so hard to make lists like this. Fun. But it's hard.
I think it may be beyond the range of the average collector with average thinking, but one is perhaps not beyond the average collector with focused thinking. A 100 Greatest list needs to have some aspirational goal tied into it to make it worth thinking about and valuing.
I'd also add:
2009 UHR St. Gaudens Double Eagle
These are coins that I think many collectors would value and aspire to own.
There are already coins in this price range and much higher being mentioned like the 1955 DDO Cent.
Not really. You can get a 1955 DDO in the VF/XF range for $1200-$1400 ish. The 1 oz gold coins are going to be over $2000.
I mentioned above that I don't often find coins in lower grades to be "great" so it would be over $2,000 and likely over $10,000 for me to acquire one. Of course, everyone is entitled to their own opinion.
The reason I would include the DDO but not the 2009 UHR, for example, is that anyone who ever had a penny board dreamed of the DDO and the S-VDB. Very few people have a nostalgic longing for a 2009 UHR Saint. Most kids didn't even grow up dreaming of a 1907 High relief.
That's a good opinion, but others can have different opinions.
The St. Gaudens Double Eagle is America's "Most Beautiful Coin" so I think many will aspire to owning a great specimen...
It's the power of the Whitman albums. LOL.
... especially those that didn't grow up filling holes in blue albums
I just never found filling holes in cardboard albums interesting or fulfilling. I think it was because I bought a Whitman album with 2 rolls of red wheat cents from Littleton after which I thought there was no challenge and that they all looked the same except for the date.
The trick is to get a nice / great one, which isn't always easy on the wallet. I'm okay to pass on the lower grades.
I agree it belongs on the list. I can also literally think of thousands of coins that are (a lot) more interesting for the same money or less, both from US coinage and otherwise.
1982 Washington Half Dollar
2000 Bimetallic Library of Congress Eagle
2006 Reverse Proof Silver Eagle Dollar
2006-W Gold Proof Buffalo Fifty Dollar
I think this gets down to price point. The 1995-W and the $50 Buff may be beyond the range of the "average collector".
It's so hard to make lists like this. Fun. But it's hard.
I think it may be beyond the range of the average collector with average thinking, but one is perhaps not beyond the average collector with focused thinking. A 100 Greatest list needs to have some aspirational goal tied into it to make it worth thinking about and valuing.
I'd also add:
2009 UHR St. Gaudens Double Eagle
These are coins that I think many collectors would value and aspire to own.
There are already coins in this price range and much higher being mentioned like the 1955 DDO Cent.
Not really. You can get a 1955 DDO in the VF/XF range for $1200-$1400 ish. The 1 oz gold coins are going to be over $2000.
I mentioned above that I don't often find coins in lower grades to be "great" so it would be over $2,000 and likely over $10,000 for me to acquire one. Of course, everyone is entitled to their own opinion.
The reason I would include the DDO but not the 2009 UHR, for example, is that anyone who ever had a penny board dreamed of the DDO and the S-VDB. Very few people have a nostalgic longing for a 2009 UHR Saint. Most kids didn't even grow up dreaming of a 1907 High relief.
That's a good opinion, but others can have different opinions.
The St. Gaudens Double Eagle is America's "Most Beautiful Coin" so I think many will aspire to owning a great specimen...
It's the power of the Whitman albums. LOL.
... especially those that didn't grow up filling holes in blue albums
I just never found filling holes in cardboard albums interesting or fulfilling. I think it was because I bought a Whitman album with 2 rolls of red wheat cents from Littleton after which I thought there was no challenge and that they all looked the same except for the date.
I really wasn't trying to make a list for me. I was trying to make a list for "The Average Collector". Personally, I'm not a date/mm person. I don't really care for most moderns at all.
I think price point is key. I would want the 100 to have a few stretches, but not too many. When I do estate appraisals, more than half of the collections I see don't have ANY coins valued at over $100. Many collections don't have ANY coins valued at over $50. Gold coins of any size are a rarity.
I consider myself to be an "average" collector. Well, maybe slightly above that. I am slowly building my third US Type Set, two other prior sets were strictly 7070s. My current one is loosely based on the 7070, but adding some earlier types and stopping at 1964. But I am only including one "key" coin, the 1793 Chain Cent. I obtained one a few months ago that is corroded and details graded by PCGS. It cost me $3250. That might be replaced with a slightly better one in the future. I'd love to get one in low grade but not a details coin - I'd like a decent planchet. That will be the costliest coin in my collection. For all the rest I am trying to get a nice example of each type, but eliminating several Seated Liberty denominations as those are really boring, IMHO. I am going after common dates that are, to me, affordable and readily available. I won't get any of the DDs because I consider them all to be mint errors, again, just my humble opinion. Affordability is key to me, and what I consider affordable varies based on income levels for that particular point in time. Oh, I drool over the PCGS top 100. All of those coins are gorgeous, but so far out of my price range. I'm happy with my current interests.
I’m sure it’s been mentioned but I think you have to have a 1917 SLQ T1 and 1917 WLH in nice grades on the list. Reasonably affordable with a $3K max and nice designs to have. I would also add an 1883 Hawaiian coin (any), and any of the 1903-1905 US Philippine coins. Maybe an 1883 Hawaiian 25c and 1903 Philippine Peso. I’d add the 1849 G$1 as well as the first of the type and the original before the type 2.
These are really just making it a different kind of type set, but I think they belong on the list...
PL or DMPL Morgan
FB Merc
FBL Franklin
Bugs Bunny Frank (usually a ‘55, but any will do)
A nice Cameo
2 feather Buffalo
1864 L IHC
All of these can be had for reasonable money (some even cheap) but if we’re talking “average collector top 100” I like them for representation.
They’re the kind of coin that someone might stretch for, but still not break the bank.
A lot of my collecting is along this top 100 style of thinking. I have several attainable key/semi-key coins and very few date/mm sets going/completed.
I think price point is key. I would want the 100 to have a few stretches, but not too many. When I do estate appraisals, more than half of the collections I see don't have ANY coins valued at over $100. Many collections don't have ANY coins valued at over $50. Gold coins of any size are a rarity.
I infer a lot of members on this forum forget your point. Most collectors will only own the cheapest coins discussed in this thread their entire life. They either cannot afford it or don't want to spend this much.
1794 Liberty Cap cent (1794 is widely collected, the 1793 LC is just too expensive)
1801 Draped Bust Heraldic Eagle half dollar
1809 Classic Head half cent
1816 Matron Head cent
and one "naked eye" overdate:
1805/4 half dollar
Robert Scot: Engraving Liberty - biography of US Mint's first chief engraver
1982 Washington Half Dollar
2000 Bimetallic Library of Congress Eagle
2006 Reverse Proof Silver Eagle Dollar
2006-W Gold Proof Buffalo Fifty Dollar
I think this gets down to price point. The 1995-W and the $50 Buff may be beyond the range of the "average collector".
It's so hard to make lists like this. Fun. But it's hard.
I think it may be beyond the range of the average collector with average thinking, but one is perhaps not beyond the average collector with focused thinking. A 100 Greatest list needs to have some aspirational goal tied into it to make it worth thinking about and valuing.
I'd also add:
2009 UHR St. Gaudens Double Eagle
These are coins that I think many collectors would value and aspire to own.
There are already coins in this price range and much higher being mentioned like the 1955 DDO Cent.
Not really. You can get a 1955 DDO in the VF/XF range for $1200-$1400 ish. The 1 oz gold coins are going to be over $2000.
I mentioned above that I don't often find coins in lower grades to be "great" so it would be over $2,000 and likely over $10,000 for me to acquire one. Of course, everyone is entitled to their own opinion.
The reason I would include the DDO but not the 2009 UHR, for example, is that anyone who ever had a penny board dreamed of the DDO and the S-VDB. Very few people have a nostalgic longing for a 2009 UHR Saint. Most kids didn't even grow up dreaming of a 1907 High relief.
That's a good opinion, but others can have different opinions.
The St. Gaudens Double Eagle is America's "Most Beautiful Coin" so I think many will aspire to owning a great specimen...
It's the power of the Whitman albums. LOL.
... especially those that didn't grow up filling holes in blue albums
I just never found filling holes in cardboard albums interesting or fulfilling. I think it was because I bought a Whitman album with 2 rolls of red wheat cents from Littleton after which I thought there was no challenge and that they all looked the same except for the date.
I really wasn't trying to make a list for me. I was trying to make a list for "The Average Collector". Personally, I'm not a date/mm person. I don't really care for most moderns at all.
I think price point is key. I would want the 100 to have a few stretches, but not too many. When I do estate appraisals, more than half of the collections I see don't have ANY coins valued at over $100. Many collections don't have ANY coins valued at over $50. Gold coins of any size are a rarity.
In your experience, what are the average value of the entire collections you appraise? 10k? 25k? 50k?
I would think capping it, at say $50k, would be an achievement most could make over a decade or more.
BST: KindaNewish (3/21/21), WQuarterFreddie (3/30/21), Meltdown (4/6/21), DBSTrader2 (5/5/21) AKA- unclemonkey on Blow Out
1982 Washington Half Dollar
2000 Bimetallic Library of Congress Eagle
2006 Reverse Proof Silver Eagle Dollar
2006-W Gold Proof Buffalo Fifty Dollar
I think this gets down to price point. The 1995-W and the $50 Buff may be beyond the range of the "average collector".
It's so hard to make lists like this. Fun. But it's hard.
I think it may be beyond the range of the average collector with average thinking, but one is perhaps not beyond the average collector with focused thinking. A 100 Greatest list needs to have some aspirational goal tied into it to make it worth thinking about and valuing.
I'd also add:
2009 UHR St. Gaudens Double Eagle
These are coins that I think many collectors would value and aspire to own.
There are already coins in this price range and much higher being mentioned like the 1955 DDO Cent.
Not really. You can get a 1955 DDO in the VF/XF range for $1200-$1400 ish. The 1 oz gold coins are going to be over $2000.
I mentioned above that I don't often find coins in lower grades to be "great" so it would be over $2,000 and likely over $10,000 for me to acquire one. Of course, everyone is entitled to their own opinion.
The reason I would include the DDO but not the 2009 UHR, for example, is that anyone who ever had a penny board dreamed of the DDO and the S-VDB. Very few people have a nostalgic longing for a 2009 UHR Saint. Most kids didn't even grow up dreaming of a 1907 High relief.
That's a good opinion, but others can have different opinions.
The St. Gaudens Double Eagle is America's "Most Beautiful Coin" so I think many will aspire to owning a great specimen...
It's the power of the Whitman albums. LOL.
... especially those that didn't grow up filling holes in blue albums
I just never found filling holes in cardboard albums interesting or fulfilling. I think it was because I bought a Whitman album with 2 rolls of red wheat cents from Littleton after which I thought there was no challenge and that they all looked the same except for the date.
I really wasn't trying to make a list for me. I was trying to make a list for "The Average Collector". Personally, I'm not a date/mm person. I don't really care for most moderns at all.
I think price point is key. I would want the 100 to have a few stretches, but not too many. When I do estate appraisals, more than half of the collections I see don't have ANY coins valued at over $100. Many collections don't have ANY coins valued at over $50. Gold coins of any size are a rarity.
In your experience, what are the average value of the entire collections you appraise? 10k? 25k? 50k?
I would think capping it, at say $50k, would be an achievement most could make over a decade or more.
Honestly, the majority of collections are a couple thousand bucks. Tops. You'd be surprised how many collections are under $1000. But those aren't people putting together registry sets.
There's a big step up to people who have largely slabbed collections. Even in that arena, very few collections go over $50k
I think price point is key. I would want the 100 to have a few stretches, but not too many. When I do estate appraisals, more than half of the collections I see don't have ANY coins valued at over $100. Many collections don't have ANY coins valued at over $50. Gold coins of any size are a rarity.
I infer a lot of members on this forum forget your point. Most collectors will only own the cheapest coins discussed in this thread their entire life. They either cannot afford it or don't want to spend this much.
Yes. This forum is far from the average group of collectors.
Even people who end up with large accumulations of material, it is far more likely to have 1000 $20 coins than 20 $1000 coins. Collectors like to add to the inventory. They are more likely to buy a $25 coin per week than hold off that gratification to save for that special coin.
Honestly, the majority of collections are a couple thousand bucks. Tops. You'd be surprised how many collections are under $1000. But those aren't people putting together registry sets.
There's a big step up to people who have largely slabbed collections. Even in that arena, very few collections go over $50k
I'm not surprised by your experience. It's exactly what I would expect. Coin collecting is a recreational activity for most collectors, not an alternative asset in a "well diversified portfolio" in their financial plan.
It seems like it's important to define what the "average collector" is to get everyone aligned.
I don't like using "average coin value" because a collection will naturally have more and less expensive coins and it's harder to gauge how many big coins can be in a collection this way.
I think total collection value may be a better way to look at it. From what @jmlanzaf wrote, many collections are under $1000 which would mean an average of $10 per coin. If the "the majority of collections are a couple thousand bucks" and we define "couple" as 2, that would mean a $2,000 collection and average $20 per coin. At $10 and $20 per coin, we're talking about a collection where slabbed coins are rare, if present at all. You could have a couple of larger coins, like a PCGS MS64 DMPL Morgan and a PCGS Oregon Half, but most coins would likely be raw.
@Zoins said:
It seems like it's important to define what the "average collector" is to get everyone aligned.
I don't like using "average coin value" because a collection will naturally have more and less expensive coins and it's harder to gauge how many big coins can be in a collection this way.
I think total collection value may be a better way to look at it. From what @jmlanzaf wrote, many collections are under $1000 which would mean an average of $10 per coin. If the "the majority of collections are a couple thousand bucks" and we define "couple" as 2, that would mean a $2,000 collection and average $20 per coin.
Well, I wouldn't target this project at those $1000 collections. Those folks tend not to have focused collections. A lot of times its some Mint products and a few Littleton albums. Other times it's miscellany accumulated from circulation or found at flea markets and the like.
I think the only kind of people who would go after something like this are the people that have $25k+ collections.
I do think the total value would be the way to look at it. I mean, if we used my list with some of that modern type stuff, you've got $10 slabs in there.
I almost want to actually create 5 boxes of 20 instead. Then you can combine them or not. Something like:
20 Greatest Clad coins for the AC
20 Greatest 20th century coins for the AC
20 Greatest Commemorative coins for the AC
20 Greatest 19th century coins for the AC
20 Greatest gold coins for the AC
And maybe a bonus set: 20 Greatest Tokens & Medals for the AC
There should probably be a few broad-stroke bands of top 100s:
$5K in total across 100: mostly coins from circulation and a low-grade typeset at $50/each
$100K total - $1K/coin average: including some popular types like the 1955 DDO, S-VDB, 16-D
$2M total - $20K/coin average: e.g. High Relief Saint, some Early Gold - coins which are attainable individually but challenging to have the funds to buy in total
$100M+ - including the effectively unattainable "super coins", average price of $1M or higher
I think that should provide a few different perspectives without marginalizing or isolating any particular way of collecting.
Learn about our world's shared history told through the first millennium of coinage: Colosseo Collection
I've tried to explain what I was trying to do in previous posts. Some of you don't get the point...or you don't want to get the point. You want to pick apart the idea and fixate on a dollar amount.
Sorry. I guess I missed the point and I was one who put a dollar value on the coins.
As you originally stated " there should be a list of the 100 Greatest U.S. Coins for the Average Collector " I consider myself an average collector although I probably have more $$$ in my collection than the average. Most of the coins on your list are out of reach for me financially. Yes I could sell off multiple coins I currently have to buy a few on your list, but I I'm one of the guys who would rather have 100 $ 100 coins than 10 $ 1000 coins.
Once again sorry for my mistake. Please continue with this thread.
@SmEagle1795 said:
There should probably be a few broad-stroke bands of top 100s:
$5K in total across 100: mostly coins from circulation and a low-grade typeset at $50/each
$100K total - $1K/coin average: including some popular types like the 1955 DDO, S-VDB, 16-D
$2M total - $20K/coin average: e.g. High Relief Saint, some Early Gold - coins which are attainable individually but challenging to have the funds to buy in total
$100M+ - including the effectively unattainable "super coins", average price of $1M or higher
I think that should provide a few different perspectives without marginalizing or isolating any particular way of collecting.
A reasonable approach. The only change I would make is decreasing the number of coins in the lowest tier noticeably and maybe slightly for the second lowest to fit your cut-offs.
1982 Washington Half Dollar
2000 Bimetallic Library of Congress Eagle
2006 Reverse Proof Silver Eagle Dollar
2006-W Gold Proof Buffalo Fifty Dollar
I don't think the average collector collects these-except maybe the 1982 Washington half dollar. My definition of average collector coins are the ones that could at one time, be found in circulation, mostly. Though, I do consider coins like the 1996-W dime an average collector coin. Who can determine what an "average" collector collects? Are pre-1933 gold coins average collector coins? Are patterns average collector coins? Are pre-Barber coins average collector coins? You know, I now think that there is no such thing as an "average" collector, as everyone's collection is different.
1982 Washington Half Dollar
2000 Bimetallic Library of Congress Eagle
2006 Reverse Proof Silver Eagle Dollar
2006-W Gold Proof Buffalo Fifty Dollar
I don't think the average collector collects these-except maybe the 1982 Washington half dollar. My definition of average collector coins are the ones that could at one time, be found in circulation, mostly. Though, I do consider coins like the 1996-W dime an average collector coin. Who can determine what an "average" collector collects? Are pre-1933 gold coins average collector coins? Are patterns average collector coins? Are pre-Barber coins average collector coins? You know, I now think that there is no such thing as an "average" collector, as everyone's collection is different.
I think these are several orders of magnitude more common than the Bechtler Dollar which is on the list
1982 Washington Half Dollar
2000 Bimetallic Library of Congress Eagle
2006 Reverse Proof Silver Eagle Dollar
2006-W Gold Proof Buffalo Fifty Dollar
I don't think the average collector collects these-except maybe the 1982 Washington half dollar. My definition of average collector coins are the ones that could at one time, be found in circulation, mostly. Though, I do consider coins like the 1996-W dime an average collector coin. Who can determine what an "average" collector collects? Are pre-1933 gold coins average collector coins? Are patterns average collector coins? Are pre-Barber coins average collector coins? You know, I now think that there is no such thing as an "average" collector, as everyone's collection is different.
I think these are several orders of magnitude more common than the Bechtler Dollar which is on the list
An average collector most likely never even heard of a Bechtler Dollar
1982 Washington Half Dollar
2000 Bimetallic Library of Congress Eagle
2006 Reverse Proof Silver Eagle Dollar
2006-W Gold Proof Buffalo Fifty Dollar
I don't think the average collector collects these-except maybe the 1982 Washington half dollar. My definition of average collector coins are the ones that could at one time, be found in circulation, mostly. Though, I do consider coins like the 1996-W dime an average collector coin. Who can determine what an "average" collector collects? Are pre-1933 gold coins average collector coins? Are patterns average collector coins? Are pre-Barber coins average collector coins? You know, I now think that there is no such thing as an "average" collector, as everyone's collection is different.
I think these are several orders of magnitude more common than the Bechtler Dollar which is on the list
An average collector most likely never even heard of a Bechtler Dollar
I agree, but it's on the list.
Given the 147 million new coin collectors that joined from the Statehood Quarter program, from a strictly numbers perspective, my guess is that the average or median collector only collects coins that can be found in circulation today, not even in the past. To me, this means likely no Barber coins, no Walking Liberty Halves, no Indian Head Cents etc. I do think some low grade specimens are available to the average collector via coin venues, but I'm not sure I'd consider them "great".
I do consider coins like the 1996-W dime an average collector coin.
An average collector most likely never even heard of a 1996-W dime
I do think average collectors have heard of Statehood Quarters. I'm guessing some have noticed the ATB quarters but may not understand the program.
1982 Washington Half Dollar
2000 Bimetallic Library of Congress Eagle
2006 Reverse Proof Silver Eagle Dollar
2006-W Gold Proof Buffalo Fifty Dollar
I don't think the average collector collects these-except maybe the 1982 Washington half dollar. My definition of average collector coins are the ones that could at one time, be found in circulation, mostly. Though, I do consider coins like the 1996-W dime an average collector coin. Who can determine what an "average" collector collects? Are pre-1933 gold coins average collector coins? Are patterns average collector coins? Are pre-Barber coins average collector coins? You know, I now think that there is no such thing as an "average" collector, as everyone's collection is different.
I think these are several orders of magnitude more common than the Bechtler Dollar which is on the list
An average collector most likely never even heard of a Bechtler Dollar
I agree, but it's on the list.
Given the 147 million new coin collectors that joined from the Statehood Quarter program, from a strictly numbers perspective, my guess is that the average or median collector only collects coins that can be found in circulation today, not even in the past. To me, this means likely no Barber coins, no Walking Liberty Halves, no Indian Head Cents etc.
You are absolutely correct. Most of the new collectors from that era are most likely folder - date and mintmark collectors, and get all their coins from their circulation change. Most of us started this way.
1982 Washington Half Dollar
2000 Bimetallic Library of Congress Eagle
2006 Reverse Proof Silver Eagle Dollar
2006-W Gold Proof Buffalo Fifty Dollar
I don't think the average collector collects these-except maybe the 1982 Washington half dollar. My definition of average collector coins are the ones that could at one time, be found in circulation, mostly. Though, I do consider coins like the 1996-W dime an average collector coin. Who can determine what an "average" collector collects? Are pre-1933 gold coins average collector coins? Are patterns average collector coins? Are pre-Barber coins average collector coins? You know, I now think that there is no such thing as an "average" collector, as everyone's collection is different.
I think these are several orders of magnitude more common than the Bechtler Dollar which is on the list
An average collector most likely never even heard of a Bechtler Dollar
I agree, but it's on the list.
Given the 147 million new coin collectors that joined from the Statehood Quarter program, from a strictly numbers perspective, my guess is that the average or median collector only collects coins that can be found in circulation today, not even in the past. To me, this means likely no Barber coins, no Walking Liberty Halves, no Indian Head Cents etc.
You are absolutely correct. Most of the new collectors from that era are most likely folder - date and mintmark collectors, and get all their coins from their circulation change. Most of us started this way.
The average collector could have collection of 100 circulation quarters max with some choice, but still circulated, lower denominations, so we're talking about collections valued at $25 in aggregate.
It's been mentioned we need to better define what we want "average collector" to mean because I think most of the discussion isn't about the average collector, but a collector of some means.
For example, I think the average collector doesn't have a single slabbed coin, but it may be useful to define average collector as a collector with some slabbed coins for the purposes oft this thread.
1982 Washington Half Dollar
2000 Bimetallic Library of Congress Eagle
2006 Reverse Proof Silver Eagle Dollar
2006-W Gold Proof Buffalo Fifty Dollar
I don't think the average collector collects these-except maybe the 1982 Washington half dollar. My definition of average collector coins are the ones that could at one time, be found in circulation, mostly. Though, I do consider coins like the 1996-W dime an average collector coin. Who can determine what an "average" collector collects? Are pre-1933 gold coins average collector coins? Are patterns average collector coins? Are pre-Barber coins average collector coins? You know, I now think that there is no such thing as an "average" collector, as everyone's collection is different.
I think these are several orders of magnitude more common than the Bechtler Dollar which is on the list
An average collector most likely never even heard of a Bechtler Dollar
I agree, but it's on the list.
The Bechtler Dollar is on the list because @RYK put it there. Since I don't know anything about Bechtler Dollars, but I do know that RYK is a pretty knowledgeable collector, I didn't question it.
1982 Washington Half Dollar
2000 Bimetallic Library of Congress Eagle
2006 Reverse Proof Silver Eagle Dollar
2006-W Gold Proof Buffalo Fifty Dollar
I don't think the average collector collects these-except maybe the 1982 Washington half dollar. My definition of average collector coins are the ones that could at one time, be found in circulation, mostly. Though, I do consider coins like the 1996-W dime an average collector coin. Who can determine what an "average" collector collects? Are pre-1933 gold coins average collector coins? Are patterns average collector coins? Are pre-Barber coins average collector coins? You know, I now think that there is no such thing as an "average" collector, as everyone's collection is different.
I think these are several orders of magnitude more common than the Bechtler Dollar which is on the list
An average collector most likely never even heard of a Bechtler Dollar
I agree, but it's on the list.
The Bechtler Dollar is on the list because @RYK put it there. Since I don't know anything about Bechtler Dollars, but I do know that RYK is a pretty knowledgeable collector, I didn't question it.
They are privately issued Southern Gold coins that start just over $2K and go up from there.
They are neat coins with rich history connected to the events that led to the Trail of Tears.
Speaking of @RYK ... for the purposes of this list, I like his assumption that the hypothetical average collector cannot spend more than $3000 per coin. It isn't a question of would they, but can they.
As @scubafuel noted in an earlier post, “An average collector should be able to hunt down ANY 1 or more of these coins if desired”. They should all be available, and in decent grades be available for a reasonable amount."
That pretty much captures my intent for the list.
I've read the posts about the average collector doesn't buy coins valued over $300; that most collections don't have any coins valued at over $100; that most collectors will only own the cheapest coins discussed in this thread their entire life; that the majority of collections are valued at a couple thousand bucks at most...but I question whether or not those are "average collectors" or are passing enthusiasts, accumulators of interesting coins they find in change or at flea markets, or just people who, unfortunately, have a below average income but still want to collect. Nothing against any of those people, but are they really representative of the average collector?
It's hard for me to imagine that there is only a small number of collectors who can spend up to $3K on a coin if they want to. If so, how do Heritage, DLRC, Stack's Bowers, and so many other dealers of high-end and high-dollar coins stay in business?
Instead, I think the average collector - maybe I should describe them as average serious collector - is an adult male with a middle-class or higher income.
Of course, I could be wrong...but that's the image of the average collector I had in mind for this list.
1982 Washington Half Dollar
2000 Bimetallic Library of Congress Eagle
2006 Reverse Proof Silver Eagle Dollar
2006-W Gold Proof Buffalo Fifty Dollar
I don't think the average collector collects these-except maybe the 1982 Washington half dollar. My definition of average collector coins are the ones that could at one time, be found in circulation, mostly. Though, I do consider coins like the 1996-W dime an average collector coin. Who can determine what an "average" collector collects? Are pre-1933 gold coins average collector coins? Are patterns average collector coins? Are pre-Barber coins average collector coins? You know, I now think that there is no such thing as an "average" collector, as everyone's collection is different.
The idea was not to create a list that the average collector collects. The idea was to create an aspirational list that an average collector could afford. Putting a 1913 Liberty Nickel on the 100 greatest coins creates a list that not even wealthy sophisticated collectors could acquire.
@MidLifeCrisis said:
Speaking of @RYK ... for the purposes of this list, I like his assumption that the hypothetical average collector cannot spend more than $3000 per coin. It isn't a question of would they, but can they.
As @scubafuel noted in an earlier post, “An average collector should be able to hunt down ANY 1 or more of these coins if desired”. They should all be available, and in decent grades be available for a reasonable amount."
That pretty much captures my intent for the list.
I've read the posts about the average collector doesn't buy coins valued over $300; that most collections don't have any coins valued at over $100; that most collectors will only own the cheapest coins discussed in this thread their entire life; that the majority of collections are valued at a couple thousand bucks at most...but I question whether or not those are "average collectors" or are passing enthusiasts, accumulators of interesting coins they find in change or at flea markets, or just people who, unfortunately, have a below average income but still want to collect. Nothing against any of those people, but are they really representative of the average collector?
It's hard for me to imagine that there is only a small number of collectors who can spend up to $3K on a coin if they want to. If so, how do Heritage, DLRC, Stack's Bowers, and so many other dealers of high-end and high-dollar coins stay in business?
Instead, I think the average collector - maybe I should describe them as average serious collector - is an adult male with a middle-class or higher income.
Of course, I could be wrong...but that's the image of the average collector I had in mind for this list.
Maybe if we change the title to "average and above average collectors" we can sidestep the class warfare issue.
@MidLifeCrisis said:
Speaking of @RYK ... for the purposes of this list, I like his assumption that the hypothetical average collector cannot spend more than $3000 per coin. It isn't a question of would they, but can they.
As @scubafuel noted in an earlier post, “An average collector should be able to hunt down ANY 1 or more of these coins if desired”. They should all be available, and in decent grades be available for a reasonable amount."
That pretty much captures my intent for the list.
I've read the posts about the average collector doesn't buy coins valued over $300; that most collections don't have any coins valued at over $100; that most collectors will only own the cheapest coins discussed in this thread their entire life; that the majority of collections are valued at a couple thousand bucks at most...but I question whether or not those are "average collectors" or are passing enthusiasts, accumulators of interesting coins they find in change or at flea markets, or just people who, unfortunately, have a below average income but still want to collect. Nothing against any of those people, but are they really representative of the average collector?
It's hard for me to imagine that there is only a small number of collectors who can spend up to $3K on a coin if they want to. If so, how do Heritage, DLRC, Stack's Bowers, and so many other dealers of high-end and high-dollar coins stay in business?
Instead, I think the average collector - maybe I should describe them as average serious collector - is an adult male with a middle-class or higher income.
Of course, I could be wrong...but that's the image of the average collector I had in mind for this list.
I don't think it's a "small number" who can spend $3k on a coin. But small is a relative term. I do think the list would need a sort of cap number (could be $3k) as well as an average number ($500? $1000?). $3k per coin on 100 coins would create a collection that is out of reach for 99% of collectors. $1k per coin on 100 coins would create a collection that, over a lifetime, might be achievable for most (51% LOL) of collectors.
The list need not be achievable for most collectors, of course. After all, the 100 Greatest Coins list that inspired this isn't really achievable for even the wealthiest of collectors.
I like your list! Instead of Two Cent Piece I would specify the 1872 date. With the Three Cent Nickel, maybe use the 1884 or 1885 dates. These are affordable in the lower grades. The 1857-S Double Eagle from the S.S. Central America should also be included although it is more expensive. The PCGS Registry Set is based on the 2nd Edition of the 100 Greatest Coins and does not include the 1955 Double Die Cent. That one should be part of any 100 Greatest list in my opinion.
1982 Washington Half Dollar
2000 Bimetallic Library of Congress Eagle
2006 Reverse Proof Silver Eagle Dollar
2006-W Gold Proof Buffalo Fifty Dollar
I don't think the average collector collects these-except maybe the 1982 Washington half dollar. My definition of average collector coins are the ones that could at one time, be found in circulation, mostly. Though, I do consider coins like the 1996-W dime an average collector coin. Who can determine what an "average" collector collects? Are pre-1933 gold coins average collector coins? Are patterns average collector coins? Are pre-Barber coins average collector coins? You know, I now think that there is no such thing as an "average" collector, as everyone's collection is different.
The idea was not to create a list that the average collector collects. The idea was to create an aspirational list that an average collector could afford. Putting a 1913 Liberty Nickel on the 100 greatest coins creates a list that not even wealthy sophisticated collectors could acquire.
Wealthy collectors can buy a 1913 Liberty Nickel but the question is how many would. According to the following, the top 1% have a net worth starting at $11M, so they would have the financial means, but there may be more wealth needed to have it deployed in a balanced way, including home.
@MidLifeCrisis said:
Speaking of @RYK ... for the purposes of this list, I like his assumption that the hypothetical average collector cannot spend more than $3000 per coin. It isn't a question of would they, but can they.
As @scubafuel noted in an earlier post, “An average collector should be able to hunt down ANY 1 or more of these coins if desired”. They should all be available, and in decent grades be available for a reasonable amount."
That pretty much captures my intent for the list.
I've read the posts about the average collector doesn't buy coins valued over $300; that most collections don't have any coins valued at over $100; that most collectors will only own the cheapest coins discussed in this thread their entire life; that the majority of collections are valued at a couple thousand bucks at most...but I question whether or not those are "average collectors" or are passing enthusiasts, accumulators of interesting coins they find in change or at flea markets, or just people who, unfortunately, have a below average income but still want to collect. Nothing against any of those people, but are they really representative of the average collector?
It's hard for me to imagine that there is only a small number of collectors who can spend up to $3K on a coin if they want to. If so, how do Heritage, DLRC, Stack's Bowers, and so many other dealers of high-end and high-dollar coins stay in business?
Instead, I think the average collector - maybe I should describe them as average serious collector - is an adult male with a middle-class or higher income.
Of course, I could be wrong...but that's the image of the average collector I had in mind for this list.
I don't think it's a "small number" who can spend $3k on a coin. But small is a relative term. I do think the list would need a sort of cap number (could be $3k) as well as an average number ($500? $1000?). $3k per coin on 100 coins would create a collection that is out of reach for 99% of collectors. $1k per coin on 100 coins would create a collection that, over a lifetime, might be achievable for most (51% LOL) of collectors.
The list need not be achievable for most collectors, of course. After all, the 100 Greatest Coins list that inspired this isn't really achievable for even the wealthiest of collectors.
I've mentioned this before but I wouldn't put a cap per coin as the way I think about it is that a collection may have 5 or less "big" coins. I'd rather have a few big coins than all coins with roughly the same value. I think this is how most coin collectors behave as well.
1982 Washington Half Dollar
2000 Bimetallic Library of Congress Eagle
2006 Reverse Proof Silver Eagle Dollar
2006-W Gold Proof Buffalo Fifty Dollar
I don't think the average collector collects these-except maybe the 1982 Washington half dollar. My definition of average collector coins are the ones that could at one time, be found in circulation, mostly. Though, I do consider coins like the 1996-W dime an average collector coin. Who can determine what an "average" collector collects? Are pre-1933 gold coins average collector coins? Are patterns average collector coins? Are pre-Barber coins average collector coins? You know, I now think that there is no such thing as an "average" collector, as everyone's collection is different.
The idea was not to create a list that the average collector collects. The idea was to create an aspirational list that an average collector could afford. Putting a 1913 Liberty Nickel on the 100 greatest coins creates a list that not even wealthy sophisticated collectors could acquire.
Wealthy collectors can buy a 1913 Liberty Nickel but the question is how many would. According to the following, the top 1% have a net worth starting at $11M, so they would have the financial means, but there may be more wealth needed to have it deployed in a balanced way, including home.
Only FIVE people could do that. And coupled with the other ultra scarce coins, no more than ONE could ever complete it. So, the list is aspirational, not a real goal, even for a billionaire.
Wealthy collectors can buy a 1913 Liberty Nickel but the question is how many would. According to the following, the top 1% have a net worth starting at $11M, so they would have the financial means, but there may be more wealth needed to have it deployed in a balanced way, including home.
A more realistic number to buy the 1913 LHN are the slightly over 57,000 quantified in the Ultra Wealth Report as worth over $100MM. About 15,000 are estimated to be from the US.
Sat down last night a ranked all the series in terms of affordability, availability, popularity, cherry pickable by grade or variety. Not a gold buyer but a couple popped up higher on the list than others.
Morgan
Peace
Buff's
Merc Dimes,
Lincoln Cents
WL Halves
SL Quarters
Gold $1
Gold Indian $2.50
Somebody mentioned a multiple boxes of 20 concept. What about...
$2.5K box
$5K box
$10K box
$25K Box
$50K box
Have suitable substitutions for say the 1955 DDO with a Large Cent or IHC?
IMHO they should weighted heavier in the popular series. but sprinkling in a Shield Nickel for Buffs etc....
Easy to find and easy to sell in a TPG holder.
Key, Semi-key, variety or something that retains value.
Across all metals.
Quality should hurt a little, so every box has a coin that is a stretch.
There should be some treasure hunting upside.
BST: KindaNewish (3/21/21), WQuarterFreddie (3/30/21), Meltdown (4/6/21), DBSTrader2 (5/5/21) AKA- unclemonkey on Blow Out
@MidLifeCrisis said:
Speaking of @RYK ... for the purposes of this list, I like his assumption that the hypothetical average collector cannot spend more than $3000 per coin. It isn't a question of would they, but can they.
As @scubafuel noted in an earlier post, “An average collector should be able to hunt down ANY 1 or more of these coins if desired”. They should all be available, and in decent grades be available for a reasonable amount."
That pretty much captures my intent for the list.
I've read the posts about the average collector doesn't buy coins valued over $300; that most collections don't have any coins valued at over $100; that most collectors will only own the cheapest coins discussed in this thread their entire life; that the majority of collections are valued at a couple thousand bucks at most...but I question whether or not those are "average collectors" or are passing enthusiasts, accumulators of interesting coins they find in change or at flea markets, or just people who, unfortunately, have a below average income but still want to collect. Nothing against any of those people, but are they really representative of the average collector?
It's hard for me to imagine that there is only a small number of collectors who can spend up to $3K on a coin if they want to. If so, how do Heritage, DLRC, Stack's Bowers, and so many other dealers of high-end and high-dollar coins stay in business?
Instead, I think the average collector - maybe I should describe them as average serious collector - is an adult male with a middle-class or higher income.
Of course, I could be wrong...but that's the image of the average collector I had in mind for this list.
Maybe if we change the title to "average and above average collectors" we can sidestep the class warfare issue.
I'd agree with the comment re the 17 P Type I SLQ. I'd add a 38 D and 1883 N/C Nickels. They are affordable and can be attractive type coins. You could add a Braided Hair Large or Half Cent in Unc. Brown. Ditto re a late date common gem Walker and Mercury Dime. You don't have to spend a fortune to buy an attractive coin with some history, that speaks to you.
"Vou invadir o Nordeste, "Seu cabra da peste, "Sou Mangueira......."
Comments
Not really. You can get a 1955 DDO in the VF/XF range for $1200-$1400 ish. The 1 oz gold coins are going to be over $2000.
The reason I would include the DDO but not the 2009 UHR, for example, is that anyone who ever had a penny board dreamed of the DDO and the S-VDB. Very few people have a nostalgic longing for a 2009 UHR Saint. Most kids didn't even grow up dreaming of a 1907 High relief.
It's the power of the Whitman albums. LOL.
I mentioned above that I don't often find coins in lower grades to be "great" so it would be over $2,000 and likely over $10,000 for me to acquire one. Of course, everyone is entitled to their own opinion.
That's a good opinion, but others can have different opinions.
The St. Gaudens Double Eagle is America's "Most Beautiful Coin" so I think many will aspire to owning a great specimen...
... especially those that didn't grow up filling holes in blue albums
I just never found filling holes in cardboard albums interesting or fulfilling. I think it was because I bought a Whitman album with 2 rolls of red wheat cents from Littleton after which I thought there was no challenge and that they all looked the same except for the date.
I agree it belongs on the list. I can also literally think of thousands of coins that are (a lot) more interesting for the same money or less, both from US coinage and otherwise.
a set of oregon commems and a set of texas commems as well, fwiw
I really wasn't trying to make a list for me. I was trying to make a list for "The Average Collector". Personally, I'm not a date/mm person. I don't really care for most moderns at all.
I think price point is key. I would want the 100 to have a few stretches, but not too many. When I do estate appraisals, more than half of the collections I see don't have ANY coins valued at over $100. Many collections don't have ANY coins valued at over $50. Gold coins of any size are a rarity.
I consider myself to be an "average" collector. Well, maybe slightly above that. I am slowly building my third US Type Set, two other prior sets were strictly 7070s. My current one is loosely based on the 7070, but adding some earlier types and stopping at 1964. But I am only including one "key" coin, the 1793 Chain Cent. I obtained one a few months ago that is corroded and details graded by PCGS. It cost me $3250. That might be replaced with a slightly better one in the future. I'd love to get one in low grade but not a details coin - I'd like a decent planchet. That will be the costliest coin in my collection. For all the rest I am trying to get a nice example of each type, but eliminating several Seated Liberty denominations as those are really boring, IMHO. I am going after common dates that are, to me, affordable and readily available. I won't get any of the DDs because I consider them all to be mint errors, again, just my humble opinion. Affordability is key to me, and what I consider affordable varies based on income levels for that particular point in time. Oh, I drool over the PCGS top 100. All of those coins are gorgeous, but so far out of my price range. I'm happy with my current interests.
My OmniCoin Collection
My BankNoteBank Collection
Tom, formerly in Albuquerque, NM.
I'd also include an example of the "oddball" denominations:
half-cent
2 cent piece
3 cent nickel
3 cent silver
75-S double-dime
Non-collectors are always fascinated by these. However, the more I type this out, the more it starts to look again like a type set.
I have absolutely no interest in ever acquiring that coin. If someone gave me one, I'd sell it and buy something I like.
THAT is the beauty of the hobby.
It is still one of the most recognizable and iconic coins of all time.
I think me and Joeykoins can handle the sub <$100
BST: KindaNewish (3/21/21), WQuarterFreddie (3/30/21), Meltdown (4/6/21), DBSTrader2 (5/5/21) AKA- unclemonkey on Blow Out
I’m sure it’s been mentioned but I think you have to have a 1917 SLQ T1 and 1917 WLH in nice grades on the list. Reasonably affordable with a $3K max and nice designs to have. I would also add an 1883 Hawaiian coin (any), and any of the 1903-1905 US Philippine coins. Maybe an 1883 Hawaiian 25c and 1903 Philippine Peso. I’d add the 1849 G$1 as well as the first of the type and the original before the type 2.
I've updated our list in the first post.
These are really just making it a different kind of type set, but I think they belong on the list...
PL or DMPL Morgan
FB Merc
FBL Franklin
Bugs Bunny Frank (usually a ‘55, but any will do)
A nice Cameo
2 feather Buffalo
1864 L IHC
All of these can be had for reasonable money (some even cheap) but if we’re talking “average collector top 100” I like them for representation.
They’re the kind of coin that someone might stretch for, but still not break the bank.
A lot of my collecting is along this top 100 style of thinking. I have several attainable key/semi-key coins and very few date/mm sets going/completed.
I infer a lot of members on this forum forget your point. Most collectors will only own the cheapest coins discussed in this thread their entire life. They either cannot afford it or don't want to spend this much.
Great idea.
Some iconic early designs need to be included:
1794 Liberty Cap cent (1794 is widely collected, the 1793 LC is just too expensive)
1801 Draped Bust Heraldic Eagle half dollar
1809 Classic Head half cent
1816 Matron Head cent
and one "naked eye" overdate:
1805/4 half dollar
Maybe there should be a YN Top 100 where each coin has a max price of $100. It would mean coins in different grades but lots of choices.
In your experience, what are the average value of the entire collections you appraise? 10k? 25k? 50k?
I would think capping it, at say $50k, would be an achievement most could make over a decade or more.
BST: KindaNewish (3/21/21), WQuarterFreddie (3/30/21), Meltdown (4/6/21), DBSTrader2 (5/5/21) AKA- unclemonkey on Blow Out
Honestly, the majority of collections are a couple thousand bucks. Tops. You'd be surprised how many collections are under $1000. But those aren't people putting together registry sets.
There's a big step up to people who have largely slabbed collections. Even in that arena, very few collections go over $50k
Yes. This forum is far from the average group of collectors.
Even people who end up with large accumulations of material, it is far more likely to have 1000 $20 coins than 20 $1000 coins. Collectors like to add to the inventory. They are more likely to buy a $25 coin per week than hold off that gratification to save for that special coin.
I'm not surprised by your experience. It's exactly what I would expect. Coin collecting is a recreational activity for most collectors, not an alternative asset in a "well diversified portfolio" in their financial plan.
It seems like it's important to define what the "average collector" is to get everyone aligned.
I don't like using "average coin value" because a collection will naturally have more and less expensive coins and it's harder to gauge how many big coins can be in a collection this way.
I think total collection value may be a better way to look at it. From what @jmlanzaf wrote, many collections are under $1000 which would mean an average of $10 per coin. If the "the majority of collections are a couple thousand bucks" and we define "couple" as 2, that would mean a $2,000 collection and average $20 per coin. At $10 and $20 per coin, we're talking about a collection where slabbed coins are rare, if present at all. You could have a couple of larger coins, like a PCGS MS64 DMPL Morgan and a PCGS Oregon Half, but most coins would likely be raw.
Well, I wouldn't target this project at those $1000 collections. Those folks tend not to have focused collections. A lot of times its some Mint products and a few Littleton albums. Other times it's miscellany accumulated from circulation or found at flea markets and the like.
I think the only kind of people who would go after something like this are the people that have $25k+ collections.
I do think the total value would be the way to look at it. I mean, if we used my list with some of that modern type stuff, you've got $10 slabs in there.
I almost want to actually create 5 boxes of 20 instead. Then you can combine them or not. Something like:
20 Greatest Clad coins for the AC
20 Greatest 20th century coins for the AC
20 Greatest Commemorative coins for the AC
20 Greatest 19th century coins for the AC
20 Greatest gold coins for the AC
And maybe a bonus set: 20 Greatest Tokens & Medals for the AC
Maybe a tiered approach makes sense?
Tier 1 = top 15
Tier2 = next 30
Tier 3 = last 55
"Got a flaming heart, can't get my fill"
There should probably be a few broad-stroke bands of top 100s:
$5K in total across 100: mostly coins from circulation and a low-grade typeset at $50/each
$100K total - $1K/coin average: including some popular types like the 1955 DDO, S-VDB, 16-D
$2M total - $20K/coin average: e.g. High Relief Saint, some Early Gold - coins which are attainable individually but challenging to have the funds to buy in total
$100M+ - including the effectively unattainable "super coins", average price of $1M or higher
I think that should provide a few different perspectives without marginalizing or isolating any particular way of collecting.
Sorry. I guess I missed the point and I was one who put a dollar value on the coins.
As you originally stated " there should be a list of the 100 Greatest U.S. Coins for the Average Collector " I consider myself an average collector although I probably have more $$$ in my collection than the average. Most of the coins on your list are out of reach for me financially. Yes I could sell off multiple coins I currently have to buy a few on your list, but I I'm one of the guys who would rather have 100 $ 100 coins than 10 $ 1000 coins.
Once again sorry for my mistake. Please continue with this thread.
A reasonable approach. The only change I would make is decreasing the number of coins in the lowest tier noticeably and maybe slightly for the second lowest to fit your cut-offs.
I don't think the average collector collects these-except maybe the 1982 Washington half dollar. My definition of average collector coins are the ones that could at one time, be found in circulation, mostly. Though, I do consider coins like the 1996-W dime an average collector coin. Who can determine what an "average" collector collects? Are pre-1933 gold coins average collector coins? Are patterns average collector coins? Are pre-Barber coins average collector coins? You know, I now think that there is no such thing as an "average" collector, as everyone's collection is different.
I think these are several orders of magnitude more common than the Bechtler Dollar which is on the list
An average collector most likely never even heard of a Bechtler Dollar
I agree, but it's on the list.
Given the 147 million new coin collectors that joined from the Statehood Quarter program, from a strictly numbers perspective, my guess is that the average or median collector only collects coins that can be found in circulation today, not even in the past. To me, this means likely no Barber coins, no Walking Liberty Halves, no Indian Head Cents etc. I do think some low grade specimens are available to the average collector via coin venues, but I'm not sure I'd consider them "great".
An average collector most likely never even heard of a 1996-W dime
I do think average collectors have heard of Statehood Quarters. I'm guessing some have noticed the ATB quarters but may not understand the program.
You are absolutely correct. Most of the new collectors from that era are most likely folder - date and mintmark collectors, and get all their coins from their circulation change. Most of us started this way.
The average collector could have collection of 100 circulation quarters max with some choice, but still circulated, lower denominations, so we're talking about collections valued at $25 in aggregate.
It's been mentioned we need to better define what we want "average collector" to mean because I think most of the discussion isn't about the average collector, but a collector of some means.
For example, I think the average collector doesn't have a single slabbed coin, but it may be useful to define average collector as a collector with some slabbed coins for the purposes oft this thread.
The Bechtler Dollar is on the list because @RYK put it there. Since I don't know anything about Bechtler Dollars, but I do know that RYK is a pretty knowledgeable collector, I didn't question it.
They are privately issued Southern Gold coins that start just over $2K and go up from there.
They are neat coins with rich history connected to the events that led to the Trail of Tears.
Speaking of @RYK ... for the purposes of this list, I like his assumption that the hypothetical average collector cannot spend more than $3000 per coin. It isn't a question of would they, but can they.
As @scubafuel noted in an earlier post, “An average collector should be able to hunt down ANY 1 or more of these coins if desired”. They should all be available, and in decent grades be available for a reasonable amount."
That pretty much captures my intent for the list.
I've read the posts about the average collector doesn't buy coins valued over $300; that most collections don't have any coins valued at over $100; that most collectors will only own the cheapest coins discussed in this thread their entire life; that the majority of collections are valued at a couple thousand bucks at most...but I question whether or not those are "average collectors" or are passing enthusiasts, accumulators of interesting coins they find in change or at flea markets, or just people who, unfortunately, have a below average income but still want to collect. Nothing against any of those people, but are they really representative of the average collector?
It's hard for me to imagine that there is only a small number of collectors who can spend up to $3K on a coin if they want to. If so, how do Heritage, DLRC, Stack's Bowers, and so many other dealers of high-end and high-dollar coins stay in business?
Instead, I think the average collector - maybe I should describe them as average serious collector - is an adult male with a middle-class or higher income.
Of course, I could be wrong...but that's the image of the average collector I had in mind for this list.
The idea was not to create a list that the average collector collects. The idea was to create an aspirational list that an average collector could afford. Putting a 1913 Liberty Nickel on the 100 greatest coins creates a list that not even wealthy sophisticated collectors could acquire.
Maybe if we change the title to "average and above average collectors" we can sidestep the class warfare issue.
I don't think it's a "small number" who can spend $3k on a coin. But small is a relative term. I do think the list would need a sort of cap number (could be $3k) as well as an average number ($500? $1000?). $3k per coin on 100 coins would create a collection that is out of reach for 99% of collectors. $1k per coin on 100 coins would create a collection that, over a lifetime, might be achievable for most (51% LOL) of collectors.
The list need not be achievable for most collectors, of course. After all, the 100 Greatest Coins list that inspired this isn't really achievable for even the wealthiest of collectors.
I like your list! Instead of Two Cent Piece I would specify the 1872 date. With the Three Cent Nickel, maybe use the 1884 or 1885 dates. These are affordable in the lower grades. The 1857-S Double Eagle from the S.S. Central America should also be included although it is more expensive. The PCGS Registry Set is based on the 2nd Edition of the 100 Greatest Coins and does not include the 1955 Double Die Cent. That one should be part of any 100 Greatest list in my opinion.
Wealthy collectors can buy a 1913 Liberty Nickel but the question is how many would. According to the following, the top 1% have a net worth starting at $11M, so they would have the financial means, but there may be more wealth needed to have it deployed in a balanced way, including home.
https://dqydj.com/top-one-percent-united-states/
I've mentioned this before but I wouldn't put a cap per coin as the way I think about it is that a collection may have 5 or less "big" coins. I'd rather have a few big coins than all coins with roughly the same value. I think this is how most coin collectors behave as well.
Only FIVE people could do that. And coupled with the other ultra scarce coins, no more than ONE could ever complete it. So, the list is aspirational, not a real goal, even for a billionaire.
A more realistic number to buy the 1913 LHN are the slightly over 57,000 quantified in the Ultra Wealth Report as worth over $100MM. About 15,000 are estimated to be from the US.
Struggling with the term average.
Sat down last night a ranked all the series in terms of affordability, availability, popularity, cherry pickable by grade or variety. Not a gold buyer but a couple popped up higher on the list than others.
Morgan
Peace
Buff's
Merc Dimes,
Lincoln Cents
WL Halves
SL Quarters
Gold $1
Gold Indian $2.50
Somebody mentioned a multiple boxes of 20 concept. What about...
$2.5K box
$5K box
$10K box
$25K Box
$50K box
Have suitable substitutions for say the 1955 DDO with a Large Cent or IHC?
IMHO they should weighted heavier in the popular series. but sprinkling in a Shield Nickel for Buffs etc....
Easy to find and easy to sell in a TPG holder.
Key, Semi-key, variety or something that retains value.
Across all metals.
Quality should hurt a little, so every box has a coin that is a stretch.
There should be some treasure hunting upside.
BST: KindaNewish (3/21/21), WQuarterFreddie (3/30/21), Meltdown (4/6/21), DBSTrader2 (5/5/21) AKA- unclemonkey on Blow Out
I've updated our list in the first post.
In that case I will throw in the 48CAL QE.
1922 "Plain" Lincoln Cent
1959 Memorial Lincoln Cent
1960-P Small Date Lincoln Cent
1944-P Silver War Nickel
1965 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar
1999 Unfinished Proof $10 AGE
2000 Sacagawea Dollar and/or 2000 Goodacre Dollar
2007 "Missing Edge Lettering" Washington Dollar
I knew it would happen.
I'd agree with the comment re the 17 P Type I SLQ. I'd add a 38 D and 1883 N/C Nickels. They are affordable and can be attractive type coins. You could add a Braided Hair Large or Half Cent in Unc. Brown. Ditto re a late date common gem Walker and Mercury Dime. You don't have to spend a fortune to buy an attractive coin with some history, that speaks to you.
"Seu cabra da peste,
"Sou Mangueira......."