Expert: PAPAJACK - 7/31/2009

Question
My father-in-law gave us a variety of coins from all over the world minted in the middle years of the 20th century. Can you tell me how to find references to access what they are/where they come from/whether they have any numismatic value? Many countries are involved so I imagine this will require an extensive list of references.

Answer
Hello Alan,                

I am not an expert on foreign coins. From what I see at the coin shows the coins you describe sell at very low prices unless they contain precious metal.

But you will only need one reference book.
I do use the "Standard Catalog of World Coins" for information. Every library has a copy in its reference section. It lets you know how many were made, what metal it is and lists a value as well. The Standard catalogs come in volumes each covering about a 100 year date range.  

Ask for The STANDARD CATALOG OF WORLD COINS, 1901- present by Krause and Mishler.

Sorry I could not be more help but I know another expert in this category at this site who can answer you.

If you write back, in a private question, with the general location (nearest large cities) and telephone area code or codes and some zip codes in your area, I can direct you to an AMERICAN NUMISMATIC ASSOCIATION MEMBER/DEALER near there. They are ethical and trustworthy.

I hope this information is helpful.

Feel free to ask another question about USA Coins.

Good Luck,

PapaJack