Got Questions?

FAQs

How do I protect myself when purchasing coins in person from others, coin shows or coin stores?

Care must be taken when purchasing unknown products from unknown people. In the coin hobby there are many, many fake coins, fake precious metals, overpriced items. Even coins that look like they are graded or authenticated by a major grading service such as PCGS, NGC or ANACS can be faked. People have longed assumed that purchasing coins in these holders they are safe, however scammers have figured out ways to replicate these designs.

Knowledge is key here. Purchasing books on the type of coin you are in collecting or investing in can save you a world of trouble later one. Publishers like Whitman have a great series of books called the Red Book Series often titled “The Guide Book of “ then the coin type. These books go in to great detail of the history of the coin type you are interested in.

Even experts can be duped by fakes on the market, most dealers have knowledge of sizes, weights, measurements and tools to test validity to a coin being authentic. All these methods help give a large sense of confidence that the coin is authentic. Nothing hurts worse than investing for many years only to go sell you collection and have a deal find fakes.

You can always ask around about the seller to see what their reputation is to others.

It is always best to ask a seller questions such as:

• What is your return policy?

• How do you verify the authenticity of a coin?

• What is the history of the coin?

• What happens if I purchase this and find out from a dealer it is fake?

Are coin shows legitimate?

What should I buy?

Your decision to purchase should reflect your personal objectives and interests. There are no incorrect choices when it comes to buying. Choose what appeals to you and aligns with your desires, but always have a clear aim before you start purchasing.

Stacking - some individuals opt to acquire precious metals as a means to safeguard their wealth or to protect against inflation. Many choose to "stack" gold, silver, and platinum. Precious metals are available in various forms, sizes, and weights, with the most common being coins, bars, or rounds in increments of 1/10, 1/4, 1/5, and 1 troy ounce. This also encompasses collecting unique non-government coins and items like silver poured designs.

Collecting Circulated Coins – Some people enjoy searching for common circulating government-issued coins like Dollars, Half Dollars, Quarters, Dimes, Nickels, and Cents. You can buy rolls or boxes from a nearby bank and “hunt” for specific years and mint marks.

Numismatic Graded Coins – These are coins graded by reputable grading organizations such as PCGS, NCG, or ANACS, which assign grades ranging from About Good up to Mint State 70.

A variety of vendors participate in Coin Shows, ranging from large brick-and-mortar shops to active retirees. These shows are generally well-organized, and vendors present a wide array of products related to the hobby. Although the shows are legitimate and pre-scheduled, not every vendor undergoes scrutiny. Similar to other purchases, it's beneficial to network and establish a rapport with those from whom you buy items.

Best storage solutions for my collection?

Proper storage methods can safeguard your collection against environmental harm (such as corrosion, toning, milk spotting), marks from coins often referred to as bag marks (caused by rubbing against other coins), and theft.

Coin Folders – These are flip books designed to hold a coin in such a way that one side is visible while the opposite side is covered.

Coin Albums – Usually consist of pages in a binder featuring a plastic slide-out window on both the front and back, enabling you to view both sides of the coin.

Flips – These are 2x2 or 4x4 cardboard pieces stapled together, with a window that provides a view of both sides of the coin. Coins are typically sold in flips carrying dates, mint marks, specific notations, and prices. Some collectors prefer to keep their acquisitions in the original flips and annotate the date or purchase price directly on them, subsequently storing the flips in coin boxes or binders outfitted with plastic pages that include slots for the flips.

Individual plastic tubes, containers, and boxes.