Expert: Troy Thoreson - 2/19/2009

Question
QUESTION: I have the following coins. What can I expect to get from a dealer if I sell them today. I purchased all of these from the US Mint many years ago. They are all in their original packaging, both wooden boxes and velvet cases.

1989-1994 4 coin set gold eagles proof
1995      5 coin set gold and silver eagles proof
1986-1990 gold eagle proofs 1.0/0.5/0.25/0.1oz.
1986-1994 silver eagle proof 1.0 oz.
1987 US Constitution 4 coin set G&S proof and uncir.
1989 Congressional 6 coin set G&S proof and uncir.

Thanks

Joe


ANSWER: Hi Joe,

On Proof Eagles you can expect at least Melt +100 per oz depending on the market at the time of sale (4pc sets = approx 2K).  That's assuming your packaging is nice and fresh (not damaged).  The 1995W 5pc set is trading for over $3,000 - In the shop, I need the physical possession of the item to get an exact quote.  The super collectible coins have been softening in price because of the economy.  One oz Proof Silver Eagles will range from $25 to $100 depending on the year, for example a 1994 is worth $100-$120.  You'll get 90% to 98% of melt for the 1987 and 1989 sets.  All the gold coin prices are highly correlated to the price of gold per oz.  

Please remember to never clean coins, this can damage and lessen their value.  Also, soft plastics can contain harmful chemicals that can react with coins over time.  Try using inert materials when storing coins.  Plus, it is always a good idea to store coins in a safe.  The safe should not be exposed to the elements and should not be up against a wall to the outside.  These are just a few tips I have learned over the years to help keep your collection in top shape.

If you found this information helpful please nominate me for category expert in coins.  If coming through Los Banos, CA please feel free to look us up at Thoreson Numismatics.

Thanks for the question,

Troy Thoreson, aucpro.com



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Troy
Thanks for your prompt response.
The local dealers I have gone to have offered me far less than what you have indicated. For example on the 1 oz gold proof eagle they offered me melt value (gold price that day). For the 1995 5 coin proof eagle set they offered me $2320. The dealer with the best prices told me he will buy the coins for 20% less than he sells them for.

The question I have is how can I get the best price with the least amount of hassle?

Thanks

Joe  

Answer
Hi Joe,

You can send the lot by USPS Registered Insured mail to us (use a large USPS Flat Rate box and make sure you have proper Registered tape, don't cover up the words "Flat Rate" with packaging).  You can insure up to $25,000 in value per package.  Please make sure you do not damage the packaging of the coins.

We have many references and I am a contributor to the 2009 & 2010 Red Book, A Guide Book to United States Coins.  I am also a Life Member of both ANA (American Numismatic Association) and CSNA (California State Numismatic Association).  Once received, I will lock in your prices.  A check will be mailed to you within 7 days of receipt and you will be done.  

We have a coin shop in Los Banos, CA.  We are a member of the chamber.  You can ship to:  TN-Troy Thoreson, 947 6th Street, Los Banos, CA  93635.  209-826-0777.  Our business name in Los Banos is Thoreson Numismatics (use TN on the package).  

We buy and sell gold and silver all day.  We work on tight margins in order to increase our business over time.  Please confirm once anything is mailed and be sure to make a list of anything in a package.

Best Regards,
Troy Thoreson, President
Thoreson Numismatics, an Auc Pro,Inc. Company
947 6th Street
Los Banos, CA  93635
209-826-0777