Coin collecting has always been a fascinating hobby for many. Among the different types of coins, modern clad coins have a unique story, and one person stands out in this area: Sam Petry, known online as “CladKing.” His passion for these coins has made him a respected figure in the coin collecting community. This article will explore CladKing’s journey, his methods, and why he believes that modern clad coins deserve more attention.
Who is CladKing?
Sam Petry, widely known as CladKing, is a prominent figure in the world of clad coinage, which refers to coins minted after 1964. He has spent many years studying and collecting these modern coins, finding beauty and value in them before many others recognized their worth. He often shares his insights on various coin message boards, offering valuable advice on identifying exceptional modern coins. His approachable nature and expertise have inspired many collectors to appreciate the quality of well-struck-clad coins.
CladKing’s Journey Begins
CladKing’s interest in coins began in 1957 when he started collecting Indian Head (Buffalo) nickels. During that time, collectors focused mainly on completing sets by date and mintmark, often overlooking the quality of the coins. CladKing’s experience taught him early on that not all coins labeled as “fine” were truly of that quality. This sparked his quest for better quality coins and shaped his future in coin collecting.
| Clad Coin Characteristics | Notable Clad Coins |
|---|
| Characteristic | Description |
| Year of Minting | Post-1964 |
| Composition | Clad (sandwich metal) |
| Common Issues | Quality varies significantly |
| Market Demand | Growing interest in high-quality coins |
| Notable Clad Coin | Description |
| 1982 “No-P” Dime | Rare mint error coin |
| 2000 “P” Sacagawea Dollar | Popular among collectors |
| 1999 State Quarters | Start of state quarter craze |
Discovering Modern Clad Coins
As time went on, CladKing shifted his focus from classic coins to modern clad coins. He noticed that older clad coins were often not being released into circulation. In 1972, a significant change in the Federal Reserve’s practices prompted him to take action. He learned that the Fed would start using a “First In, First Out” (FIFO) method for distributing coins. This change meant that collectors like him would not find older uncirculated coins as easily anymore. Recognizing this trend, CladKing decided to focus on modern coins that others were ignoring, believing they would become valuable in the future.
The Quest for Quality Coins
CladKing’s dedication to finding high-quality clad coins took him across the Midwest. One notable adventure occurred in 1983 when he traveled ten hours to Sandusky, Ohio, to search for the rare 1982 “No-P” (FS-501) dimes. Surprisingly, the anticipated crowd of collectors was absent. He took his time examining hundreds of these dimes to find the best quality among them.
CladKing realized that while many collectors were starting to appreciate modern coins, it was still a competitive field. He understood that finding exceptional examples was not easy, especially since there were no grading reports available at the time. Collectors had to rely on their own assessments, making the hunt for quality coins even more challenging.
Changing Perspectives in Coin Collecting
Over the years, the perception of modern clad coins has shifted. In the past, some dealers dismissed the importance of these coins, considering it “un-American” to focus on them. However, with the rise in popularity of State Quarters and the internet, more collectors began to pay attention to modern coinage.
CladKing sees this increase in interest as a positive development. Many young collectors who started with State Quarters in their youth may return to the hobby as adults, creating a new wave of appreciation for modern coins. Nostalgia often drives collectors, and CladKing believes that today’s collectors will look back fondly on their childhood coins.
CladKing’s Views on Coin Grading
Despite his passion for modern coins, CladKing has some reservations about the grading systems used in the hobby. He feels that the Sheldon Scale, which is widely used to grade coins, does not accurately reflect the quality of a coin. He argues that it overlooks factors like the coin’s strike quality and overall appeal. CladKing believes that a better understanding of these aspects would enhance the grading process.
His critique of the grading system has led him to trust others to grade his coins when he decides to part with them. After decades of collecting, he has built an impressive collection of high-quality clad coins.
CladKing’s Impact on Coin Collecting
CladKing’s contributions to the world of coin collecting extend beyond his personal collection. He has shared his knowledge and insights through online forums, helping many collectors understand the nuances of modern coins. He encourages them not to take for granted that modern coins will always be available, as this mindset could lead to missed opportunities.
In his view, the market for high-quality clad coins may soon experience a shift, similar to the pre-1964 silver coins. He believes that as collectors become aware of the scarcity of gem-quality modern coins, demand will increase, making them more valuable.
Conclusion
Sam Petry, or CladKing, has shown that modern clad coins are worth collecting and appreciating. His journey from a young collector to a respected expert highlights the importance of recognizing quality in coinage. As more people become interested in modern coins, CladKing’s insights will continue to inspire a new generation of collectors. His belief that modern coins will one day be sought after reflects the ever-changing landscape of coin collecting. The future of clad coins looks promising, and collectors are fortunate to have someone like CladKing leading the way.
FAQ’s
What are clad coins?
Clad coins are coins made from a composition of different metals, primarily copper and nickel, that were minted after 1964. Unlike earlier coins that contained silver, clad coins have a sandwich-like structure where the outer layers are composed of different metals. This change was made to reduce costs and preserve the nation’s silver reserves.
Who is CladKing, and why is he important in the coin collecting community?
CladKing, whose real name is Sam Petry, is a prominent figure in the modern coin collecting community. He is known for his expertise in clad coins and has spent decades researching and promoting their value. CladKing has become a respected voice on various coin message boards, where he shares his insights and encourages collectors to appreciate high-quality modern coins.
How did CladKing start collecting coins?
ladKing began his coin collection in 1957, focusing on Indian Head (Buffalo) nickels. During his early years, he learned the importance of quality in coins after experiencing dissatisfaction with a coin he purchased. This realization sparked his interest in finding high-quality examples, leading him to eventually specialize in modern clad coins.
Why should collectors pay attention to modern clad coins?
Collectors should pay attention to modern clad coins because they can be valuable over time, especially high-quality examples. As fewer gem-quality modern coins remain in circulation, their scarcity may lead to increased demand and higher prices in the future. CladKing believes that nostalgia will also drive interest in these coins among younger collectors as they grow older.