Quick Tip: Check Your Coin Edges for Hidden Value

A quick tip for coin collectors: always examine the edges of your coins. Edge lettering errors and missing reeding can add significant value to otherwise common coins.

What to Look For

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.

On reeded coins, 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.

Quick Examination Tips

Hold coins at an angle under good light. Rotate slowly while observing the edge. Compare suspect coins against known normal examples. When in doubt, consult variety reference guides.

Many collectors overlook edges entirely. Taking thirty seconds to examine this often-neglected area could reveal a significant discovery hiding in plain sight.

Coin edge examination
Edge examination can reveal valuable errors
Jennifer Walsh

Jennifer Walsh

Author & Expert

Powerboat enthusiast and marine technology writer. USCG licensed captain specializing in coastal cruising.

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