Unscrupulous sellers often use the word “guide” to fool new collectors, inflating a coin’s worth. Sometimes they inflate the grade on a flip; other times, on a bottom-tier slab, knowing there is no way for you to check the certification. This article showcases one such seller so you can see how it’s done and how to avoid.
I have bought from this seller before but always am wary because he tends to inflate the value of coins with the mysterious “guide” tag.
First of all, the only reliable guides are ones by top-tier holdering companies, such as PCGS and NGC, whose high standards are meant for sight-unseen purchases. PCGS guide for a 1900 Morgan at MS65 is $275. NGC prices the 1900 MS65 in its holder is $235.
Perhaps the seller can make a case for this particular coin being higher than these retail prices because of the toning. There is no “guide” for toned coins.
Also, this particular coin has environmental damage on the reverse:
Finally keep in mind that the only real guide for buyers are PCGS/NGC major auction house hammer prices, ranging from $175-$250 on average for an MS65 1900 Morgan.
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