Expert: Dmitry Livshits - 7/30/2010

Question
I have a coin that was made into a pin (silver, silver dollar size) that is from 1781, Patrona Bavariae on one side with what appears to be a queen on a throne, the other side a side-facing portrait of a man.  What do you estimate is the value of such an item?

Answer
Hi Joey,
This is a 1 thaler coin from the German State of Bavaria, made from 0.833 purity silver.
Has the pin been removed from the coin? If it has, then this would be treated as a damaged coin. As such the value is a little above scrap/bullion value, in the range of $20-25, if the coin is otherwise worn. A damaged, but otherwise excellent condition coin, will typically still bring $50 to $100 depending on how bad the damage is.
If the pin is still attached, it will be worth a little more as a crafted coin item. I would expect $25 to $40 if the coin itself is well used and $60 to $75 if the coin itself is in nice shape.
If the coin was never made into a pin it would be worth starting at $40 for a well used coin, up to $100-$150 for one with minimal wear, and over $500 for one in mint condition with no wear or damage at all.
Thanks for the question! =)