Expert: Brad Swain - 1/12/2010

Question
My husband died 10 years ago and I finally looked through some of the coins (lots of them), randomly put in envelopes: Lincoln Pennies, Buffalo Head nickels, Morgan dollars, silver certificates, and more. I've moved them, stuck them in the closet and generally think of them only when cleaning out. I don't have a clue what to so with them but  it's time. I'm not interested in coin collecting. Can you suggest how I go about getting the "collection" evaluated by a reputable person/s?
I assume I would sell it. I live in the northwest. Thanks for your help.

Answer
Hi Lois, 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.
U.S. coin prices for professionally graded coins: http://www.pcgs.com/prices/
and ungraded coins: http://www.bestcoin.com/united-states-coin-pricing-guide.htm .
Ungraded coins (raw) are worth less depending on amount of wear and collector demand.
You might also try a library for a copy of the Guidebook of United States Coins for pictures, values and lots more interesting info.
You might take some of them by a local coin shop for a first hand opinion: http://find.mapmuse.com/interest/coin_dealers
A dealer would likely offer you their minimum value though in order to make the most profit off them. But he may refer you to a local reputable collector that could do better.
You might try Ebay.com for similar pieces for comparison and as a place to offer them for sale to the greatest audience of collectors.
Brad