Expert: Ronald Fern - 6/16/2010

Question
What is the value of a 1905 Bolivar Libertador Coin

Answer
Hi Felicia:

Thanks for the question. I'm not extremely knowledgeable on world coins, but I'll give it a try. As with any coin, condition is very important. You did not give me your estimation of the grade, so the value is dependent on that. When asking a question, always try to provide a photo, or the specifics of the coin, such as weight, diameter and thickness, or at least compare it to one of our US coins. The wording on your coin is also important in finding out what it is. All of this would help to pinpoint what you have, and make it easier to give an evaluation.

You need to check the date on the coin, or the denomination. Your coin is likely from Venezuela. The One Bolivar coin was not struck with the 1905 date, but was struck in 1901 and 1903. It looks to be the size of our US quarter, was struck in .835 Fine silver, 23 mm in diameter, and has a weight of 5.0 Gr.  It has an approximate retail value of $6 in fine, $15 in very fine, and $90 in extra fine condition. The Two Bolivar coin was struck in 1905, looks to be the size of our US fifty cent piece. It was struck in .835 Fine silver, 27 mm in diameter, and has a weight of 10.0 Gr.  It has an approximate retail value of $7.50 in fine, $20 in very fine, and $100 in extra fine condition.

Link with Venezuela coins for you to try and establish what your piece may be: http://www.numismatica-venezuela.info/en/coins/mv-bs.htm

You may want to check world coin listings under on eBay from time to time to see if your coin is listed what this type of piece brings. If you live close to a coin shop, they should offer you an opinion as to what you have, and the value at no cost. Always try and get at least two opinions and try and deal with PNG dealers if possible. If you should decide to sell your coin to a dealer, remember they will offer about 50% to 60% of the retail value. Here's a link to find one in your area: http://www.pngdealers.com/dealersearch.php

Hope this helps to answer your question. Please remember to go to the experts site to rate this answer. Check the nomination box on the rating page below any comments you may have.

Thank You and Good Luck in your collecting.