Expert: Brad Swain - 1/15/2010

Question
I have a deutsches reich 1 mark 1905 coin, it has nicks and is in a worn condition, spread eagle on one side, and a wreath of leaves on the other side, what is it's value?

Answer
Hi Sandy, Collector value of a coin depends on denomination (face value), date, mint mark (if any), number minted and condition of a coin, including amount of wear, any dents, scratches or cleaning as well as collector demand for it.
This German Mark contains .1606 of an ounce of silver.
What is the mintmark letter below the eagle?
If it is an A it is one of the 10.3 million minted in Berlin that year. Collector value may be worth about $2.75 with heavy wear to around $3.50 with moderate wear to maybe $14 with light wear.
Another mintmark letter may be worth more.
You might also try a library for a copy of the Standard Catalog of World Coins for pictures, values and lots more interesting info.
Brad