Whether you want to buy coins for a collection or sell them, knowing the actual value of a coin will help ensure you get the best deal you can. Several different factors determine a coin's worth, some of which change over time. You can find more specific information online or ask an expert, but if you want a rough idea, there are three factors always to consider.

What Determines the Price When People Buy Coins?

1. Age

As a rule of thumb, the older a coin is, the more likely it is to be valuable. Not only are older coins likely to use more costly metals, but they also tend to be harder to find. However, some specific years are still going to be more valuable than others; similar coins struck only a year apart can have wildly different values, mostly because of demand.

2. Physical Features

A coin that's in good condition--not corroded, worn down, shaved, or scratched--will always get a better price than the same coin in poor condition. The type and weight of metal sets the minimum value for the raw material. Finally, they take into consideration the quality of the currency because those with a more precise image are worth more than ones where the image isn’t of good quality.

3. Demand

This factor is hard to capture and requires in-depth knowledge of the market to predict. Some coins are more popular than others, which can be due to rarity, mistakes, history, aesthetics, and a range of other reasons. The selling location can also be a factor depending on the seller's interest.

If you want to buy or sell coins in Cincinnati, OH, choose American Trading Company. With over 50 years of experience in the industry, these professionals in Hamilton County can help you get the best price for your old coins. They also buy and sell gold, jewelry, paper currency, and guns and ammo as well. For questions about their inventory and prices, visit their website or call (513) 661-3633.