Whether you have a Lincoln Cent collection worth hundreds of dollars or have inherited a Bust dollar
collection worth thousands, the question remains the same. What is it worth? What most clients really
are asking is what can I get for it? A wholesale or retail valuation is what a knowledgeable buyer will pay.
So how is this determined?
The process begins with inspecting and determining the grade of the coins. In 1984, after 19 years
buying and selling U.S. coins, I collaborated with other leading numismatists in setting up a grading
standard for the industry by grading for a newly formed third party grading company (PCGS). Those
standards since has been applied and expanded through the years. I personally grade every important
coin in your collection to begin the appraisal process.
The next step is to determine the market value. Today’s market information is replete with pricing
information. That can be overwhelming. So how do I arrive at the valuation? I have had many clients
bemoan the fact they have seen their coin on the internet for sale for $10.00 and another for $1000.00.
Which is it?, they ask. My reply is, probably neither. Once I have established the grades the valuation
becomes narrowed. While establishing the grade narrows the pricing structure the exact value is not
yet determined. The next step is deciphering all the pricing information available.
I review the current pricing charts, auction records (where applicable) and known dealer to dealer
trading. Coins with high gold content are influenced by the spot metals price. (Usually ½ ounce to one
ounce U.S. gold coins) Gathering all this information guides me to the present day valuation. In some
rare cases I may contact a specialty dealer. (One who trades regularly in only one type of U.S. coin
series. ) This dealer can provide me with the current real time trading valuation. Combing all these
resources I arrive at your collections worth in the market.
So to answer the question, “What are my coins worth?” The answer is they are worth what a detailed
examination of the grading, the market pricing and real time sales have shown.