Professional Sourcing & CAC Arbitrage
In numismatics, an AU58 (About Uncirculated) coin often exhibits superior luster and strike compared to a low-end Mint State coin (MS60-62). For collectors on a budget, sourcing high-end AU58 "sliders" is the most effective way to build a beautiful collection that retains strong liquidity.
Rotate the coin. Luster should "cartwheel" across fields. If it skips on high points (cheek, hair, breast), it's AU58.
Are the fields clean? AU58s often have MS64-quality fields. If fields are "chattered," it's likely a low-end MS60.
Always buy the Beautiful 58 over the Ugly 61. The 58 will always have higher secondary demand.
| Metric | AU58 "Gem Slider" | MS60-62 "The Trap" |
|---|---|---|
| Surface Marks | Minimal / Few | Heavy / Distracting |
| Luster | Bright / Cartwheel | Dull / Muted |
| Strike | Full / Sharp | Often Weak / Flat |
| Price | Discounted | Full Premium |
Look for full feathers on the eagle's breast and sharp luster in the sun's rays.
Prioritize "cartwheel" luster. High-point wear on the hair should be nearly invisible.
Check for split bands on the fasces; AU58s often have better strike than MS coins.
Full horn is a must. Attractive toning on the bison's flank adds a massive premium.
Type 1 (No stars under eagle) is the best target for AU58 luster plays.
Look for "LIBERTY" to be sharp. Red-Brown (RB) surfaces are the primary goal.
Indicates the coin is in the top 40% of its grade. Essentially a "Budget Gem."
The Holy Grail. Indicates the coin exceeds the grade and would likely cross to MS61+.
The Strategy: Registry set collectors build "Everyman Sets" (AU58 max), creating massive demand for stickered 58s.