Expert: Joe Hylas - 2/7/2009

Question
Hello Joe,

Thanks for your time. I am one of the "experts" in the stamp collecting category and I need some help regarding some numismatic items.
I recently purchased an estate of stamp items and inside were some coins that I need to try and ascertain some idea of value. I realize that condition and demand have a  lot to do with the value.

1. 1953 Franklin Half. (encased in folder) marked "choice B.U.

2.  1982 "Gold" George Washington Half Dollar. (encased in plastic folder). on face is George Washington, bottom has writing: 250th anniversary of birth.  Reverse of coin shows Mt Vernon, top wording is "United States of America", bottom is wording "Half Dollar"

3. "Gold" George Washington Presidential Dollar Series, have both Mint Marks

I realize the "gold" is just coating and not solid (although I wish!).

Also, in your opinion, do you think the value of the new presidential dollars would be a worthwhile investment? I realize that it is purely speculative.

Thanks again for your time. If I can ever help you with a philatelic item, please feel free to ask me.

Terry

Answer
Hi Terry,

A 1953 Franklin in Brilliant Uncirulated is worth anywhere from $25 and up.  As you know, there are different degrees of uncirculated so I could only offer the lowest uncirculated value without inspection.

The GW half, is a commemorative, however it did not come from the US Mint like that (gold plated).  This was probably done by some mass marketing company.  Unfortunately, rarely do collectors want coins that have been altered.  I can not place a vlue on thsi one, but a normal one would be worth about $3-4

TH Washington Dollars, at this early time, are still worth face value unless you have one of the coins with the missing edge inscription.  These have become known as "Godless" dollars since "In God We Trust" is missing.  These are worth about $60-75 each.

I don't thing the Presidential Dollars will appreciate in our lifetimes, but I did put some away from my heirs just in case.


Regards
Joe Hylas
www.AllCoins.US