Expert: Neil S Berman - 4/2/2005

Question
I was just given a nice coin collection by my father in law. After looking it over it seems that thier is quite a few nice coins, with most of them being morgan silver dollars. They were kept in a very destructive way (in a safety deposit box, not protected in any way, all thrown in a bag together). I have since separated them and have purchased a few books to read up on them, and some airtight plastic holders. I am wondering about having them graded by one of the grading services. My questions are, which grading service is the best and most commonly accepted one in your opinion? How do you decide which coins to have professionaly graded? if I was to do the whole collection it would be rather pricey. And when the guy down at my local coin shop asked if I wanted my collection appraised, what did he mean by that and what good would it do? unless I was looking to sell it. Is thier an unwritten rule about the value and which coins to get graded?  Thank you Mr. Kirk John Tillman II

Answer
Dear Kirk. You ask some very pointed questions from an educated mind, something I don't get too often at this site. I can probably answer most if not all your questions as I am a Professional Numismatist for 36 years, but it would be simpler for both of us to talk. You can call me toll free at 888 215-4254 or email at nsberman@msn.com and send me your phone number and I'll call you. I'll be looking forward to your email or call and will be pleased to help you.  Also, feel free to check out my web site. www.sgbh.com. Regards. Neil Berman.