Expert: Brad Swain - 6/27/2010

Question
QUESTION: Hi Brad,

I have found in my coin collection that has been passed down to me, a coin which I believe may be rare. It is a 1898 25 Cent Wilhelmina Netherland silver coin. Is there any letters or other markings I should look for on this coin? It's in pretty good condition. How can I tell if this is fake or real?

Thank you in advance for your assistance,

Stacey

ANSWER: Hi Stacey, There were 400,000 of these Dutch 25c coins minted that year featuring Queen Wilhelmina (1890-1948). This coin should weigh 3.575 grams and would contain .0736 of an ounce of silver. It is a scarce coin and usually very worn. Collector value may be worth about $20 with heavy wear to around $200 with moderate wear to maybe $400 with light wear.
You might try Ebay.com for similar pieces for comparison.
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

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: 2nd picture attached

Answer
Hi Stacey, it looks in Fine condition to me. I would estimate it at $100.
You might take it by a local coin shop for a first hand opinion: http://find.mapmuse.com/interest/coin_dealers .
Cleaning coins that leaves them shiny or scratched, even if only by looking with a magnifying glass, will reduce a coin's value by at least half.
Brad