Coin Collecting

How to Clean Coins

July 20, 2006 - 3 comments. Posted by in Coin Collecting.

If you're new to the world of numismatics, also known as coin collecting, then you may have a lot to learn! One very important thing that every coin collector needs to know is the proper way to clean their coins. Often, collectible coins shouldn't even be cleaned. If you're interested in selling your coins to other collectors, it's best to leave the coins uncleaned. They may prefer the coins in their original state.

For example, ancient coins often display a patina that should be left alone. By attempting to clean an ancient coin, you can damage it and destroy the patina that has taken ages for nature to create.

If you really want to clean your coins, one good way is to soak them in olive oil for several days then rinse with clear water. Allow the coin to air dry. This method can gently remove dirt and debris that is not part of the patina.

It simply cannot be stressed enough that cleaning your collectible coins can detract from their value. If you are determined to clean your coins and have not seen acceptable results from the olive oil method, then you'll want to take them to a professional. Professional coin cleaners are able to clean your coins without damaging them.

Storage is another important consideration when it comes to your coin collection. For coins that aren't very valuable, most anything can work. Try storing them in small envelopes or miniature Ziploc baggies. There are also special display envelopes which keep the coins safe but allow them to be displayed. You can even mount and display your coins under glass. This is a great way to turn your collectible coins into a work of art!

For valuable coins, you'll definitely want to store them in an airtight container. Hard plastic holders designed to house coins are probably your best bet for valuable coins. Your local coin or collectible shop will most likely carry these holders. If you have trouble finding them, check the Internet.

By understanding the proper way to clean (or not clean!) and store your collectible coins, you can keep them safe and retain their value year after year. If you have further questions about how to care for your coins, consult a coin specialist in your area or check out some books about coin collecting from your local library or bookstore.

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Selling Coins

July 20, 2006 - 2 comments. Posted by in Coin Collecting.

If you're a coin collector, or if you have unexpectedly become the owner of some rare coins, you might be interested in selling. Selling your collectible coins can be a great way to make some money. Numismatics, or coin collectors base their entire career around doing this. Before putting your coins up for sale, read our tips which can help you sell the smart way!

First, you'll need to determine how much your coin or coins are worth. The best way is to have them professionally appraised and receive a certificate of appraisal and authenticity.

With such a certificate, potential buyers will have no problem accepting your asking price. If they have questions about the value, all they have to do is view the certificate. Plus, offering these types of certificates with your coins adds professionalism which can help your chances of a successful sale.

Next, you need to figure out where to sell your coins. You could sell them to a coin shop or coin dealer. This is certainly a fast way to sell your coins, but because these buyers are out to make their own profit, they are going to offer you the lowest possible price. If you're looking to get the highest amount for your coins possible, you might want to check another avenue, such as private collectors.

By joining coin collecting groups, you can find personal collectors who are willing to pay a little more for a coin or coins they have their hearts set on. Join a group in your local area, or even on the Internet!

Another option is selling your coins at coin shows. There are many different coin dealers there, and for a small fee, you can rent a booth and be one as well.

Still another choice is to sell your coins on Ebay. When doing this, there are some basic rules you should follow. Make sure your description, grading and pictures are all crystal clear. This gives potential buyers confidence and makes them more likely to bid on your coins. The best time to run your auction is from Sunday to Sunday, as Sundays are Ebay's busiest time.

As you can see, there are a variety of places where you can sell collectible coins. If you're looking to sell coins, do some research and figure out which method is most convenient and offers the best payoff for you.

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Coin Buying Tips

July 20, 2006 - no comments. Posted by in Coin Collecting.

Are you new to the world of coin collecting? If so, then you might need some help when it comes to choosing coins. The first thing you need to do is determine what kind of coins you want to collect.

Some people collect US coins from all time periods, others love ancient coins, while others like old coins from countries like Spain and France. If you're unsure of your favorite coins to collect, why not check out some books that feature pictures and estimated values of many different coins? You're sure to find the perfect type of coin for your new collection.

After deciding what kind of coins you want to buy, now you need to know where to buy them. You could always visit a coin shop in your area. It's a good idea to visit several shops before deciding on one. Some coin shop owners are going to be more expensive than others. If there are no locations in your area to buy coins, the next step is the Internet.

Ebay is a great place to buy and sell coins of all kinds. Every day, thousands of coins are bought and sold there. However, it pays to be careful when buying coins this way. Only deal with sellers who have excellent rating and feedback history. It also helps to only choose coins that come complete with a certificate of authenticity.

Read the fine print carefully and view all photographs. If the photographs aren't clear, then you may not want to buy. You want to see the coin as clearly as possible before making your bid. Ebay is great because you can often get valuable and rare coins for less than you'd pay a coin shop. However, be sure to research the value of any coin you're interested in bidding on to make sure you don't end up paying too much. Determine your highest bid in your mind before starting, and don't go above it.

Another place to buy coins is at a coin collector's convention. By doing a quick Internet search, you can find listings for annual conventions and gatherings where you can buy and sell any kind of coin imaginable.

Buying coins can be a fun hobby that could turn into big bucks someday! With a little research and common sense, you can successfully purchase great coins for your own coin collection!

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