Expert: Jim Lawniczak - 3/23/2009

Question
QUESTION: What would the value be for a 1925 $20 gold coin still in plastic case?

ANSWER: Linda, I'm not sure what plastic case you are referring to -- the coins didn't come in them.  Someone must have simply put yours into one.  Unless you have the coin "certified" by a reputable grading service, like PCGS, NGC etc., and that is what you mean by the plastic case, you would need to have your piece authenticated as there are quite a few gold coin counterfeits out there.  The price of gold coins can fluctuate daily with the fluctuation of the price of gold itself and price depends on the condition of the piece.  Try going to www.ebay.com and doing a search for 1925 $20 gold and you should see quite a few for sale, Jim Lawniczak

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

QUESTION: Thank you so much for your prompt response.  I guess I was vague--The coin has a square cardboard contained with plastic over the coin for protection--never been out of container.  So, if the coin is in perfect condition, what would the fair price be?

Answer
Linda, there are almost no coins in perfect condition.  But to answer your question, in the highest grade listed for a $20 gold piece in my pricelist from February, MS65, which is a very nice uncirculated grade, the value would be between $1815 and $1870.  Keep in mind, please, that you can't do anything to the coin to improve its condition -- anything you try will almost certainly result in a lower grade, Jim Lawniczak