Shotgun rolls

[TPring]

Would like to get clarification on a term that is often used (esp. on ebay).

A "shotgun roll" just refers to a roll of coins that is crimped at one end and folded-over at the other end [like a shotgun shell], correct?

In other words, there is a good likelihood that it has been searched or otherwise tampered-with.


Thanks

[jmangham]

Any roll could be called a "shotgun roll". It's a buzz phrase folks use to get you interested. It doesn't necessarily mean it has been opened or not. Honestly, I don't trust sellers the use the term. Most of the time the term is associated with a roll of junk coins that someone stuck a Liberty Dime at the end of to make the potential buyer feel like he can't go wrong. When I buy rolls I research the seller by the info ebay gives. Feedback rating, what else they are selling, etc. If all is good there I usually take the sellers word for it that the rolls are unopened. If there is any doubt, I will message the seller directly and ask.

[TPring]

Thanks, that is what I suspected.

Maybe someone can add that def to the glossary.

[jmangham]

Some sellers probably use the term with no ill intentions but to me it's an instant turn off.

[Petespockets55]

Personally I don't consider a roll that is folded over on one end to be an original shotgun roll. Even if both ends are crimped, it is no gurantee of whether they have already been searched or not.

[ray_parkhurst]

The term "shotgun roll" has been used since the 1930's to describe red-colored rolls, crimped on both ends, which resemble a shotgun shell. A more recent term which encompasses rolls with a broader range of characteristics is "OBW" or Original Bank Wrapped. The implication of "shotgun roll" is that it is original and unsearched, but it has more recently been abused by sellers who wrap rolls themselves.