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Coin and Paper Money Collecting/Oregon Exchange Company "Beaver Gold"

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Expert: - 5/29/2009


Question
In going through our parents' old coins we have come across a $10 1849 gold coin issued by the Oregon Exchange Company.  While not technically mint, it is in very good condition.  We believe this is considered rare and would like an approximate value, the name of a reputable appraiser in the Kansas/Missouri area, and also the best way to sell it.  Thank you.

Answer
Hi Bill,

I'm sorry, I do not know any dealers in Kansas/Missouri area.

If you can get an image via a flat bed scanner of the obverse and reverse that will help.  Also, reply back with the weight in grams and a diameter in mm.  This will all help to determine if the coin is authentic.  If we think its authentic your best bet is to get the coin authenticated by PCGS.  We are authorized PCGS dealers and can help you through the process.  PCGS is the number one service in the world for certifying rare coins - NGC is another great service.  We are also authorized NGC dealers.

Then, if the coin is certified we recommend putting it up for auction.  We deal with some of the largest companies in the U.S.  Typical examples can sell for $20,000 to $90,000 depending on condition.  I recommend Heritage.  

Please note that there are many fakes - so don't get your hopes up to high.  

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, 947 6th Street, Los Banos, CA  93635.  209-826-0777.

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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