Estate coin collection guide
The first week after inheriting a coin collection
How to secure, photograph, preserve and organize coins before making any decisions.
A quick reminder: This is educational information, not a formal valuation, financial advice, legal advice, or an offer to buy your coins.
Start with preservation
Keep original albums, envelopes, handwritten labels and purchase records together. Do not clean, polish, dip or alter the coins. Handle them by their edges when necessary.
Create a simple inventory
Identify whether the collection contains U.S. coins, world coins, proof sets, bullion, banknotes or certified coins. Record quantities and photograph both sides of potentially notable pieces.
Know when to seek outside help
An executor, a family with multiple beneficiaries, or anyone managing a potentially valuable estate may need a qualified independent appraisal and legal or tax advice.
Further resources
American Numismatic Association FAQs · PCGS price guide · FBI coin scam warning