Where to find valuable coins

You have to learn about each coin individually. Gillis says the organization often gets calls from people who are ready to retire and want to sell their coins. First sort your coins by denomination, then by type. Each denomination has had a number of design changes over the past plus years. After sorting them into design types, you can further narrow it down and sort them by year, mint and any variants you may discover.

Dealers who are members of the American Numismatic Association promise to abide by a code of ethics. There are variables in play that sometimes have nothing to do with a dealer trying to lowball you. In fact, this can reduce their value. Coins are most valuable when they are in mint or near-mint condition. Storing them so they do not touch each other at all prevents scratches and helps to keep them looking their best. There are a number of coin holders you can purchase such as coin flips, coin folders or albums.

Like other collectible items, make sure these holders are made of materials that will not damage the coin, such as Mylar and acid-free cardboard. Greater care should be taken with rare and expensive coins. Not all coins are candidates for that. Special care should be taken in handling valuable coins. Experts recommend placing a pad or cloth on the table to cushion the fall if you happen to drop a coin and prevent it from further damage.

Wash your hands and keep food and drink away from your coins. Some people recommend wearing gloves, while others say they increase the risk of dropping your coin.

Handle them on the edges rather than the front and back. If you keep your coins in holders, try to minimize taking them in or out to reduce the risk of scratching them. On top of that, how collectible coins are currently valued is a matter of some subjectivity. Someone may only want to add coins in good condition to their coin collection, regardless of its absolute rarity.

The bottom line? You may also want to invest in a good magnifying glass to closely inspect the obverse heads side and reverse tails side of coins you are interested in. They can tell you what your coins are worth when you're ready to sell coins. Joshua McMorrow-Hernandez is a journalist, editor, and blogger who has won multiple awards from the Numismatic Literary Guild.

He has also authored numerous books, including works profiling the history of the United States Mint and United States coinage. More information about coin values from the expert authors at Gainesville Coins:. Don't be the last to know about the latest deals and new product arrivals. Join us today for FREE! Sign in or register. Buy Gold. Australian Gold Coins. Buy Now. Buy Silver. However, keep in mind before you buy a metal detector that they are banned in all national parks.

There are a few ways you can approach specialists and auctions, which include in-person and online. You could choose to visit pawn shops, auction houses, antique stores, or other places that may be trying to sell a rare coin. Email us at exclusive the-sun. Like us on Facebook at www. Jump directly to the content.