Estate coin collection guide
Is it silver, rare, or just old?
A quick orientation to precious-metal value and collectible value.
A quick reminder: This is educational information, not a formal valuation, financial advice, legal advice, or an offer to buy your coins.
Identify the coin first
Note country, denomination, year and mintmark. Silver-looking color does not establish precious-metal content, and old dates alone do not establish rarity.
Separate metal and collector premiums
Bullion-focused pieces may trade largely on precious-metal content, while scarcity, demand and condition can change premiums for numismatic coins.
Avoid crude shortcuts
Do not scratch or acid-test a collectible coin. An established dealer can help verify metal content and authenticity without damaging it.
Further resources
American Numismatic Association FAQs · PCGS price guide · FBI coin scam warning