By Kathleen Duncan – Pinnacle Rarities

One of the most frequent questions we’re asked is which series present the best values. There has been plenty written on those sectors of the market on the rise…seemingly most right now. We can, however, list quite a few which are excellent bargains. For the most part, these are coins that have not seen much, if any, price appreciation in the past two decades. Acquire a single coin, or collect an entire series. High quality, attractive coins from these areas should outperform the general market.

Red-Brown Indian Cents: We see many coins certified Red by PCGS or NGC that we believe are actually a Red-Brown. Buy those coins, instead, that are certified Red-Brown, which are near Red, and pay a fraction of the price.

Three Cent Nickels: This is a modest 23 coin series that has only a few stoppers (1883, 84, 85). The Proof series is only a bit longer (26 coins) but is easier to complete. Most proofs are available in cameo for a reasonable premium.

Seated Liberty Half Dimes: Capped Bust half dimes have charted nice gains, but this series is still asleep. The business strikes present a challenge to complete, with several exceptionally difficult dates. Legend Obverse Proofs (1860-73) present a much more collectible endeavor.

Seated Liberty Dimes: Seated Quarters and Half Dollars have gotten quite a boost in the past 6 months. It shouldn’t be long before Dimes follow suit. This is an extremely difficult series to complete as nearly all of the San Francisco dates are elusive. There are many scarce dates, however, that can be purchased for reasonable sums even in gem to superb grades.

Barber Dimes, Quarters, and Halves: These sectors are showing some increased interest, particularly in auction, but with a bit of effort there are plenty of bargains to be found. There are 74 coins in each of the regular issue series, but only 24 in the proof series. Of course, you don’t have to complete a series to pick up some good values.

Peace Dollars: There are just 24 dates to this highly collectible issue. Nice coins can be somewhat of a challenge to locate, but the beauty of this great Art Deco design and there reasonable levels make this a worthwhile endeavor.

Classic Silver Commemoratives: This area of the market has actually fallen substantially over the past 5 years. The 50 unique designs (144 issues if you collect each date within those designs), each with an individual history behind production, form a unique niche in numismatics. Easily obtained fully brilliant or with gorgeous toning, depending on your preference. At the current valuations, what’s not to love?

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