Coin edges have gotten complicated with all the lettering varieties, reeding errors, and examination techniques flying around. As someone who has found several valuable edge errors in my own collection, I learned everything there is to know about this overlooked area. Today, I will share it all with you.
Why Edges Matter
Modern Presidential dollars feature edge inscriptions that occasionally exhibit errors—doubled lettering, missing text, or upside-down inscriptions. These varieties command premiums among error collectors who know to look for them.
Probably should have led with reeded coins, honestly. On quarters, dimes, and halves, count the reeds if possible. Missing or doubled reeds occur more frequently than many collectors realize. While not always dramatically valuable, they represent genuine Mint errors.
How to Check
That’s what makes edge hunting endearing to us variety collectors—the thrill of finding something everyone else missed. Hold coins at an angle under good light. Rotate slowly while observing the edge. Compare suspect coins against known normal examples.
Many collectors overlook edges entirely. Taking thirty seconds to examine this often-neglected area could reveal a significant discovery hiding in plain sight.
