Expert: Bruce Goldstein - 10/4/2008

Question
Hi Bruce,

I have a gold crown that came off of a tooth long, long ago and was just wondering what it might be worth to a dealer or someone in the gold market? Should I just hang on to it in hopes of increasing value?

Also, what type of gold is the safest investment to buy? I heard it was coins or gold & silver boullion, especially before 1933?..1934? or something related to that. Why might gold or silver coins minted before these dates be more valuable?

Thank you greatly.

Mike E.

Answer
For the gold crown, there are a couple of ways you could find out its value.  You might try to ask dentists/orthodontists around town if they buy back this gold.  I found one where I live and got what I thought was a fair deal.  Otherwise, you can ask dealers around (don't take the first offer you get) and see what they think.

If I were to buy gold coins, I would look at buying $20 Saints (1907-1932).  I'd probably stick with buying nicer examples (MS63-64) and slightly better dates.  However, if you stick with the common dates, you probably can't go wrong either in the long run.  Just shop around and see what they're going for before jumping.  If you want some variety, you can go after some of the common date $20 Liberty's (pre-1908).  The gold in the $20 coins is about 0.97 ounces.