Estate coin collection guide
Dates, mintmarks, grades and certification explained
The basic details that distinguish common coins from more desirable examples.
A quick reminder: This is educational information, not a formal valuation, financial advice, legal advice, or an offer to buy your coins.
Look at the complete identification
Country, denomination, date and mintmark may all matter. Distinct varieties can look very similar.
Condition is consequential
Wear, scratches, cleaning, damage, originality and strike quality influence desirability. Do not claim a numerical grade without adequate expertise.
Check certification
If a coin is slabbed, record the service, displayed grade and certification number; verify through the service where possible, while recognizing counterfeits exist.
Further resources
American Numismatic Association FAQs · PCGS price guide · FBI coin scam warning