Whether you are a novice in the world of coin collecting, or you’ve been enjoying this hobby for years, it is important to know the value of your collection. For many coin enthusiasts, the main goal of forming a well-rounded collection is to either sell the collection or hand them down to a loved one. For that reason, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of the value of your collection. Sometimes, it can be tricky determining the value of a collectible coin, which is why it’s important to keep these factors in mind:

Aesthetics – One major factor that goes hand-in-hand with the value of a coin is the appearance. Many coin collectors attempt to form a collection that matches in eye appeal, toning and/or surface originality.  Avoidance of cleaned and damaged coins should be paramount for the serious collector.

 Date and Mintmark – The year and place a coin was minted is a crucial component of its value. In any given year, a rare mintmark (place of production) can make a huge difference in the value of a coin.  Original mintage figures are a good place to begin, but they do not always provide the complete story of surviving populations.  A good numismatic advisor will be able to help you determine the true rarity of your coins.

History / Origin – Certain coins carry more historical weight than others and that can play into the monetary value of these items. Depending on the type of coin you purchase, it may be a piece of historical memorabilia that will continue to increase in value over time. From a personal standpoint, if you are looking for coins from a location or time period that has sentimental value, collecting those types of coins can be highly rewarding.

Grade – If you’ve had your coins professionally graded you can easily determine the basic trading range for that particular item.  The grade can be anywhere from 1-70 which will have a bearing on its overall value.  The raw grade does not always reflect the value of your coin.  There may be other factors such as superior eye appeal that may make it trade higher than the price guide indications.  Generally, the higher grade will mean a higher price.  Here the expertise of your chosen professional will help you understand the value of your collection.

If you are interested in determining the value of your coin collection, we are here to help. Our experts have years of experience when it comes to grading and accurately assessing unique and rare coins of all kinds. Visit Coins Plus online today or call us at 513-621-1996 to speak to Cincinnati’s premier rare coin dealer.