A few key indicators that can help you determine if you possess a rare coin...
If you've stumbled upon an old coin, or have been given one by a family member, you may be wondering if it's rare. While there are many factors that contribute to a coin's rarity, there are a few key indicators that can help you determine if you possess a rare coin. At Austin Rare Coins & Bullion, we're experts in rare coins and can help you ascertain a coin's value. Learn more in today's post and contact us if you have any questions.
Examine the Coin's Date
One of the easiest ways to tell if a coin is rare is to check the date. If the coin is from before 1800, it's likely rare. Coins minted in the 19th century are also generally considered rare, with a few exceptions. Coins from the 20th century are less likely to be rare, but there are still some that meet the criteria.
Check for Errors
Errors on a coin can also affect its rarity. If a coin has been miscast, misprinted, or otherwise incorrectly made, it will likely be rare. These sorts of errors are usually caught before the coins are circulated, but sometimes they make it into circulation without being noticed.
Consider the Coin's Mintage
The mintage, or the number of coins minted, is another important factor in determining a coin's rarity. Generally, the lower the mintage, the rarer the coin. This is especially true for early coins, which often had very low mintages.
Do Some Research
If you're still not sure if your coin is rare, the best thing to do is do some research. Look for similar coins online and see what price they're selling for. This will give you a good idea of the coin's value and whether or not it meets the criteria for being rare.
Even though Austin Rare Coin buys Modern Bullion Gold, Silver, Platinum & Palladium as Well as Rare U.S. & Ancient Coins there is a $5,000 minimum. If your collection of coins meets the $5,000 threshold, then we would be happy to take a look at your old coins and professionally determine their value and rarity. To better understand the appraisal process go to this link and fill out the form.
