Selling ancient coins? which 6 factors constitute the value of the coin?

Posted by capstonecoins on October 25th, 2016

Coin collectors do so for various reasons. Besides thinking of this as a means of investment, it is also seen as a way of preserving history that has transcended through several generations. How many coins have you collected and what is their value? You must have asked yourself this question severally. This is an obsession that not only strikes you but several numismatists as well. To know the value of the ancient silver coins collected, the following considerations are important:

Demand

The simple rules that govern demand and supply are in operation in this sphere of ancient coins as well. When there is a huge market supply of the coins you have collected, then it means that the demand is low. This also means that you may only fetch the face value of the coins and in extreme cases, the asking price could be lower than the face value. You should not sell at such a time.

The intrinsic or metallic content of the coin

It is what is in the coin that matters to most buyers. Silver and gold coins minted before the great depression are more valuable compared to their bronze, copper, or steel counterparts. This is possibly because of the high value associated with almost pure contents in the former coins.

The grade of the coins

This is referred by the coin experts as the condition in which the coin is in. When collecting ancient coins, you should keep the grade in mind because this has a direct effect on the value of the coins.Grading is ranked from 1 to 70 and anything close to 70 is considered a mint coin, thus highly desirable.

The main aspects considered when grading coins include; strike, aesthetics, coloration, luster, or physical damage. The latter isn’t limited to dents, corrosion, scratches, carbon spots or effects of improper cleaning.

The strike depicts the design incorporated when stamping. Well-stricken coins are more valuable as they lack defects and errors, giving them an authentic look.

Design of the coin

When collecting US coins, keep the design in mind. The aesthetics of coins are highly regarded by numismatists. Coins with the best and the most intricate designs are valued highly.

Age of the coins

When selling coins, you should keep in mind the age of the coins. Older coins have been known to fetch higher prices in the market. However, this can be untrue when comparing the cost of an old coin with poor strike quality and a newer coin that is graded highly.

Rarity of the coin

Rare coins will always be in high demand. This is because of their high demand and a low supply. Compared to frequently available coins, the rare coins will fetch a lot more money in the market.

In conclusion, the rarity, quality and the aesthetics of a coin are highly regarded by numismatists. You should therefore ensure that the coins you sell meet or exceed the above expected qualities.