Expert: Dan Moore - 1/3/2012

Question
I was given a gold 1911 coin. My grandfather worked for a bank back in the depression era when the government recalled all gold coins,he held onto two, he passed 20 years ago and it has been passed to me. Can you tell me anything about it.

Answer
Hi Michele,

I really need more information about your coin to get specific.  You didn't tell me the denomination (face value), or if it has any mintmark (like a "D" or "S").

You can learn the history of gold coins here :
http://www.coinsite.com/CoinSite-PF/pparticles/default.asp

You can see pictures and more information about them (like where the mintmarks are) here :
http://www.coinfacts.com

Usually, a coin like you've inherited, will command a grade of something between XF-40 and AU-55.  As such, there is only one coin from 1911 that will be worth a significant amount above its gold melt value -- that is a 1911-D Indian Head $2.5 gold piece.  Any other mintmark or denomination will generally only sell for approximately whatever the gold in it will melt for.

You can see retail pricing for gold coins here :
http://www.numismedia.com/fmv/fmv.shtml

If you happen to have the 1911-D $2.5, send me pictures, and I'll try to figure out it's exact value.

I hope this helps,

Dan