What Are My Coins Worth?For more detailed information on how much your coins are worth, order a copy of the "Red Book," also known as "A Guide Book For United States Coins" The coin market is very active and, in some categories, values can change substantially in a relatively short period of time. Still, like anything else, your coins are worth whatever someone is willing to pay for them. Generally, a coin must be physically examined to determine its authenticity, grade, and the presence or absence of problems before a value can be established. Prices generally rise when:
Several factors are taken into consideration by a potential buyer:
For more detailed information on how much your coins are worth, order a copy of the "Red Book," also known as "A Guide Book For United States Coins." Essential Elements of the ANA Grading SystemPROOF -- A specially made coin distinguished by sharpness of detail and usually with a brilliant, mirror-like surface. Proof refers to the method of manufacture and is not a condition, but normally the term implies perfect mint state, unless otherwise noted and graded.MINT STATE -- The terms Mint State (MS) and Uncirculated (Unc.) are interchangeably used to describe coins showing no trace of wear. Such coins may vary to some degree because of blemishes, toning or slight imperfections. PERFECT UNCIRCULATED (MS-70) -- Perfect new condition, showing no trace of wear. The finest quality possible, with no evidence of scratches, handling or contact with other coins. Very few regular issue coins are ever found in this condition. CHOICE UNCIRCULATED (MS-65)-- An above average uncirculated coin which may be brilliant or lightly toned and has very few contact marks on the surface or rim. MS-67 through MS-62 indicate a slightly higher or lower grade of preservation. UNCIRCULATED (MS-60) -- Has no trace of wear, but may show a number of contact marks, and surface my be spotted or lack some luster. CHOICE ABOUT UNCIRCULATED (AU-55) -- Barest evidence of light wear on only the highest points of the design. Most of the mint luster remains. ABOUT UNCIRCULATED (AU-50) -- Has traces of light wear on many of the high points. At least half of the mint luster is still present. CHOICE EXTREMELY FINE (EF-45) -- Light overall wear shows on highest points. All design details are very sharp. Some of the mint luster is evident. EXTREMELY FINE (EF-40) -- Design is lightly worn throughout, but all features are sharp and well defined. Traces of luster may show. CHOICE VERY FINE (VF-30) -- Light even wear on the surface and highest parts of the design. All lettering and major features are sharp. VERY FINE (VF-20) -- Shows moderate wear on high points of design. All major details are clear. FINE (F-12) -- Moderate to considerable even wear. Entire designed is bold with overall pleasing appearance. VERY GOOD (VG-8) -- Well worn with main features clear and bold, although rather flat. GOOD (G-4) -- Heavily worn with design visible, but faint, in areas. Many details are flat. ABOUT GOOD (AG-3) -- Very heavily worn with portions of lettering, date, and legends worn smooth. The date may be barely readable. |
