Rare Coin? How Much Is It Worth?
Guides for Pricing Collectible Coins
If you've got coins that have been sitting in a collection for years, or you have inherited coins that may be valuable, there are several ways of getting the best prices and valuing coins. The most common is to buy a price guide at just about any coin shop. The person behind the counter will also give you a value for the coin if the shop makes purchases, but it is important to remember that coin shops make money when they buy coins cheap, and sell for high prices. Also, if you walk in with a truly rare coin, they may offer you what sounds like a good price, but turns out later to be thousands of dollars less than the actual value of the coin. Coin appraisers are also vital when getting insurance on a collection, settling an estate, or presenting items for auction. If you've got a pine tree shilling, double die penny, or gold double eagle lying around, then you should really find out how much it is worth. Aside from local coin dealers and appraisers, your numismatic society might be able to help you out with current values.
The changes in the economy, stock market, and value of the dollar have driven up gold and silver prices to highs that haven't been seen since the early 80s. If you have gold buillion or silver coins, whether collectible or not, the prices have not been this high in a generation. Published guides for gold are rarely used anyway, since market value plays into the buying and selling of precious metals. If you want cash for gold coins and collectible gold, you may want to check around with your local coin shops, since you could get pretty good prices. Krugerrands, Gold Maple Leaf Coins, American Eagles, and symphony coins are being dusted off for sale in this hot market, so if you need information and guidance on coin prices, see your dealer!
Notes and Special Information
Special note: Coin prices vary by market and condition. Get your coins appraised whether you're buying or selling. If a seller won't let you get an appraisal, walk away!