Coin and Paper Money Collecting/Coin collectiom

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Expert: - 4/8/2009


Question
I am an amatuer collecter and, due to a lack of sellers or hobby shops in my area, I come across most of my coins/bills through pure luck. The problem I have is that I can't get my coins/bills appraised and I don't want to hold on to every coin I find. I recently stumbled upon two Mecury dimes and about 5-6 silver dimes in one roll and I don't know if their collector value is enough to hold onto all of them. Same about an 1897 penny that I have in "not-so-great" condition. So my question is: Do you know where a good appraisal site is, or at least one that I can get an estimate?

Answer
Hi JC,

Your best online reference guide is eBay.  You can search completed items for values.  Also, try www.amark.com for current bullion pricing on 90% Silver coins like Silver Roosevelt and Common Mercury Dimes.  Sell on eBay once you have enough quantity to work with.  There are also many dealers out there (us included) who can quote you a liquid value on almost any coin.

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  

Coin and Paper Money Collecting

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Troy Thoreson

Expertise

Please, no error coin questions unless your coin is dated 1955 or before. I can answer questions regarding all U.S. Coins, Gold & Silver bullion, including regular mint and proof issue coins and currency. Since 2009, I have been contributing to the Red Book, "A Guide Book of United States Coins", by R.S. Yeoman along with two other publications. I currently run two coin shops in California.

Experience

I have over 30 years experience in Numismatics. I own two coin shops and have examined thousands of coins over the years. Please allow up to 2 business days for an answer. This is a free service and I am happy to answer questions - but please be patient and understanding of my time.

Organizations
My company is an authorized P.C.G.S. and N.G.C. dealer. I am a Life Member of the American Numismatic Association and California State Numismatic Association. We are also an authorized Whites Metal Detector dealership.

Publications
I have written articles for Coin World and the Rare Coin Market Report.

Education/Credentials
I have a certificate of completion from the American Numismatic Association on how to detect counterfeit U.S. Gold Coins and how to Grade U.S. Coins along with other certifications. I have a Bachelor of Science in Business with a concentration in Accounting and a minor in Computer Information Systems.

Awards and Honors
I am listed as a contributor to the Red Book, "A Guide Book of United States Coins", the Red Book, by R.S. Yeoman. I have been contributing to the Red Book since 2009. I also contribute to the Blue Book and the new Professional edition Red Book. I have many other awards and honors.

Past/Present Clients
My past consulting clients included eBay, Inc., Yahoo! Auctions, and the United States Postal Service. I have many other great customers and help all no matter their level of collecting.

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