Expert: Troy Thoreson - 2/24/2009

Question
QUESTION: i was wondering if you knew what the key coins were in the platinum eagle series. i looked up mintages, but some people have completly different numbers. do you know which key ones i should be looking at? (i already have 10th anniversary set) thank you.

ANSWER: Hi Pat,

Unfortunately, The 10th anniversary coins are not rare when compared to other Platinum Eagles.  The mintage is around 15,000.  Key coins are the proofs dated 2004 and 2005.  Also, the unc 2006W burnished uncirculated set or singles have low mintages (may be the lowest of all modern coins).  These coins have a consistent aftermarket numismatic premium.  

The 2008 Proof Platinum issues are currently showing a premium, but it is still to early to know if this will be sustainable.     

Other recent issues have low mintage numbers but have not yet seen large premiums for their numismatic value - examples reg bullion 2006, 2007, and 2008.  Overall, coins with mintage figures in the 5,000 and lower range will be the long term winners when it comes to Platinum coins.     

It will take some years before the U.S. Mint publishes exact mintage numbers on Platinum issues.  Until then we will have to use the best information we can find from various sources.  Researching mintage figures on some modern coins is frustrating because the U.S. Mint uses sales figures vs. actual mintage figures for a given year.    

Remember to store your original U.S. Mint packaging carefully.  For older coins, do not clean them as this 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: for platinum i have the 10th anniversary set, as well as a 2007 $25 proof. do you think i should keep these or sell and buy other coins? if you think i should sell, which key coin of any united states series for any year do you think i should buy? thank you again

Answer
Hi Pat,

The following is only my opinion.  I cannot guarantee future performance on any coins.  There is always a chance of risk with any purchase.

All 10th Anniversary Sets we purchase are sold immediately.  I would recommend selling this set.  

The 2007 $25 proof is reported to have a mintage under 6,000 units - so it is a keeper.  

For platinum coins I recommend the 2006W Unc Burnished 4pc or any of the singles.  Look for certified PCGS MS69 or MS70 (if reasonable).  Focus on the rarest and your will come out ahead in the long run.

Silver:  A great coin is the Silver 2008-W reverse of 2007 uncirculated coin.  With a mintage of approx 47,000 it is the 2nd rarest of all Silver Eagles.  Buy PCGS MS69 or MS70 (if reasonable).

Gold:  2007-W Unc Burnished 1/2oz or 1/4oz Gold coins. Buy PCGS MS69 or MS70 (if reasonable).  Reported mintage levels are under 15,000 units per coin.  This is very low for Gold Eagles.

Thanks for the question,

Troy Thoreson, aucpro.com