Coin and Paper Money Collecting/Interesting coin

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Expert: - 12/22/2009


Question

coin in question
I have a coin in my collection of World War II foreign coins that I am unsure of its origin. Attached is a picture. Any information would be greatly appreciated!

Answer
Hi Josh,
This is actually a temple token, most likely from the early to middle 1900's and from a Hindu/Buddhist area such as Nepal, Tibet or Northern India. These show up fairly often at auctions, but are rarely attributed correctly.
If described accurately, it would do around $10 at auction, though I have seen some pretty imaginative attributions that went for $50+.
Thanks for the question! =)

Dmitry Livshits

Expertise

My specialty is world coins from the 18th to 20th centuries, primarily non-US foreign coins and related areas such as errors and exonumia (tokens, medals, etc.). I can answer questions relating to identification, grading, selling, preservation and evaluation of such items. In addition to catalog value, I can give you the practical market value and trends for specific types of coins. I will also take questions regarding counterfeits (both modern and antique) and on how to identify them. I am NOT knowledgeable in paper money/banknotes, ancient or "shipwreck" coins. Thank you.

Experience

Collector of world coins since early childhood. Access to a variety of auction records and reference material. You can also find me on Facebook.

Education/Credentials
A.S. in Psychology (2006), B.A. in Forensic Psychology (2008), M.A. in Forensic Psychology (2011).

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