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Collecting rare coins is an exciting way to connect with history while potentially making a great investment. But no matter how long you’ve been a collector, it isn’t always easy to determine the value of every coin. You’ll need a few reliable sources to truly gauge each coin’s worth. Here’s what to do if you believe you’ve found something rare.

How to Check If You’ve Found Rare Coins

Examine Them Closely

If you notice that something about a coin is off, you’re already on the right track. You may feel a variance in the print while receiving change at a cash register, or see that one of the dimes in your piggy bank looks different from the others. Minting errors can boost the value of coins up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Look for discrepancies such as oddly spaced lettering, doubled die, missing mint marks, and date omissions. These are sure signs you’ve found a winner.

Look for References

rare coinsCheck online coin price guides or look into coin books and magazines to search for your exact piece. Although you’ve already examined it, be sure to compare it closely to the reference images you find. Whether it’s a coin with low mintage numbers or a minting error, you’ll want to make sure your match is accurate. These manuals will tell you how much your rare coins are currently worth. If you can’t find your coin in a reputable guide or site, it probably isn’t very rare.

Talk to a Coin Dealer

When in doubt, a trustworthy coin dealer is always your best bet. Find a dealer with a good reputation and a high rating from the Better Business Bureau®. These experts have a good idea of what rare coins should look like. They have a keen eye for errors and will know which years produced the scarcest pieces. While the values of coins can change, and guides only provide estimates, coin dealers are always on top of the rare coin market.

 

If you think you’ve hit the jackpot of rare coins, have them appraised at Coins & Stuff. This professional pawnbroker offers precise pricing and a level of reliability the High Point, NC, community has grown to love. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or find out the worth of your pieces, you’ll receive top-notch customer service and a shop full of wonders. Call (336) 885-5323 or visit them online to learn about their additional services.

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