The first rule of handling collectible coins is to always hold it by the edges with a thumb and forefinger. You can also use clean, soft cotton gloves. Never touch the face of the coin as your fingers can transfer dirt and oils, and this is the most common way that coins are damaged. Wash your hands and have a safe, clean work space and a soft, clean towel or appropriate surface to set it down on. If you are examining a mint set in its original packaging, don’t take it out, because it’s probably never been touched. As crazy as it sounds, be aware of spitting on coins when examining them (spit flies when we talk), which can potentially diminish the value.

How can you tell if a coin has been cleaned

One of the obvious ways to tell if a (circulated) coin has been cleaned is it will have a dull, but bright look; dull from wear and bright from cleaning. Old pennies should appear dark brown in color, not orange and shiny. Silver coins appearing white or shiny have probably been cleaned. Ironically, trying to restore the luster to a silver coins finish actually diminishes the value. Obviously uncirculated coins shouldn’t need cleaning--but some people might clean them anyway. If a coin has been cleaned, the luster will be greatly diminished. The natural oxidation of coins is not a bad thing.

What is coin grading?

Coins are graded on the 70-point Sheldon scale, ranging from a PO poor) to a perfect MS 70 (mint status), with a wide range in between. Coins are graded out in three categories; circulated (P-1 to EF 49), about circulated or AU (50-59), and the uncirculated or MS coins (60-70). These are broken down even further within each category. Grading, of course, is based on the condition of the coin. Circulated coins will never be 70s because of wear and tear.

Are coins a good investment?

Coins are definitely a good investment--but, like any investment in precious metals, the market fluctuates. Gold, silver, and even copper, market values can and will vary. You are always at risk of their value decreasing. However, overall, precious metals generally retain their value even in turbulent economies and are considered to be one of the safest investments.

What are the most sought-after coins?

Ten of the rarest, most valuable and most highly sought-after U.S. minted coins are the 1913 Liberty Head nickel, 1804 silver dollar, 1933 Double Eagle, 1893 silver dollar, 1838 half dollar, 1870 silver dollar, 1909-S Lincoln cent, 1916 Mercury dime, 1901 S Barber quarter, and the 1916 Standing Liberty quarter.

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Helpful Reviews

Reflections

Larry H. rated

I OWN THIS BUSINESS-AM A PRIVATE COLLECTOR-HAVE 52 NATIONAL BUYERS THAT BID ON YOUR COINS-I SUBMIT THEM FOR YOU FOR FREE-I GRADE THEM FOR YOU-FREE-I GET YOU THE HIGHEST OFFERS OUT THERE-NOW IF YOU DON'T LIKE MY FREE HELP-FINE-WASTE YOUR TIME-MONEY-GAS AND GO TO 10 MORE STATEWIDE DEALERS --YOU MAY GET 10 OPINIONS BUT YOU WILL NOT GET A HIGHER SALES PRICE. IF YOU DO NOT APPRECIATE OUR FREE HELP-FINE-.AT LEAST THE LAST 10 SELLERS GOT FROM 2 TO 7 TIMES WHAT ANY OTHER DEALERS WERE OFFERING----NOW THAT'S MY SERVICES.

RARE COINS OF GOLDSBORO

Larry H. rated

THE SERVICE IS FREE-THEY ARE RARE COIN COLLECTORS-THEY WILL GET YOU THE HIGHEST PRICES YOU CAN GET-WITH 52 DEALERS NATION WIDE BIDDING ON YOUR ITEMS-BUT IF YOU DO NOT LIKE THE INFO GIVEN YOU ARE ALWAYS FREE TO GO ELSEWHERE.....YOU MAY GET 10 OPINIONS ALL OVER THE STATE BUT YOU WILL NOT GET A BETTER PRICE OR SERVICE, LIKE IT OR NOT.

Reflections

Dr richard G. rated

NOT QUALIFIED APPRAISERS! BEWARE BEWARE BEWARE, I had my vintage coin collection appraised here. I was given a significantly low & incorrect valuation. I ultimately sought a 2nd and a 3rd opinion. And per the following 2 valuations with QUALIFIED professional appraisers, we determined that the Reflections staffers had either intentionally misinformed me or they were simply grossly inexperienced. They seemed to be nice folks, but they do not know much about determining accurate values of antiques. NEVER AGAIN!