1903 1c MS RB

1903 Cent Production: 1903 is another high-mintage date.

Survivability: These circulated extensively and today are available in all grades.

Collecting Challenges: As with other dates, select problem-free original examples.

Collecting Circulated Pieces: The optimal collecting grade for circulated coins is AU-50 to MS-63RB. Beware of cleaned coins, as they have a limited resale value.

Collecting Mint State Pieces: The optimal collecting grade for Mint State coins is MS-65RD. These come well struck with good luster. Regardless that this date (as well as others of the 1900’s) is considered common, collectors should exert the same amount of care as they would if they were buying a coin worth ten times as much. To many collectors, the thrill is in the chase and capture of the one prized example that “speaks” to them stronger than any other.

Collecting Proof Issues: Although this is a lower-mintage date, there tends to be enough high-grade examples available. PF-65RD examples and higher tend to be no rarer than most other dates in the late-date set, which traditionally covers 1879 to 1909. This date, as is seen in 1902, does not come with any appreciable cameo contrast. Most early-die-state examples have die polishing lines which appear when the coin is turned a certain way in the light, and then disappear when the coin is turned further. The die polishing lines may look like hairlines on the coin to the uninitiated. In the past, I have been able to buy superb uncertified gem Proofs of this date for PR-63 or lower prices from dealers who do not handle enough of these coins to know about the die polishing.

There are 23 or so known varieties. These are mostly minor repunched dates.