Leaderboard

At the end of the day, Blake, it's up to each collector to decide and set their own personal parameters, which may, in each individual case, increase or decrease over time. When I first started collecting pennies seriously, nearly 10 years ago now, I never imagined I would develop such a completist mindset during the intervening period. At that point, I would have said that one decent 1908 (for example) would have been enough. But as my interest deepened, so did the completist side. I suppose if something is worth doing, then it's worth doing well - and you only succeed by relentless pursuit of your ultimate objective. With regard to the different types and their popularity/notoriety, the clincher is what has charisma, and what doesn't. As you say, the 1890 dropped 90, is arguably a type in and of itself. Certainly recognised by Gouby, as we know. But not one which attracts a lot of attention. Conversely the 1934 missing waves, creates a bit more fuss. Moreover, you only have to look at what brings in the big money. Compare and contrast the F90, 1877 narrow date penny with an 1881H Freeman 103. The 103 is probably rarer than the F90, but head to head at auction, we both know the F90 is going to draw in the greater number of punters and get the most money. Probably because it's instantly recognisable. If a die No 1 under date ever does appear, it'll no doubt fetch in excess of £20k. Although maybe there isn't a Die No 1. Perhaps they considered the normal dies to be "No 1" and started at No 2. All very interesting and worthy of discussion.

By the way, that's a cracking specimen, Pete.

This is my F160 with a picture that is clearer

Totally agree.

Exactly Mike. It's all dependant on how many are first discovered, and what appeals at that time, or is fashionable. You can say there are 4 types of the 1908, or not bother at all and say there is just one type. If the latter, then there is no 1926ME, 1911 hollow neck, 1903 open 3 etc. The 1874 series would be half as big..... What about the 1890 dropped 90? Try finding one..... I have an 1880 with sea by the ship missing. So what. But, if it's a 1934, everyone is interested. You have to have that 'magic ammount' found- not quite enough to go round, but _just_ enough discovered for people to feel they are missing out by not having one......! ( The exception to this is when clearly there was a _set_ of dies made, but one obviously missing. An 1862 halfpenny with a 'D', or more spectacularly, an 1863 with a clear '1' below the date turns up.....see what happens....)