Meta Pixel How to Get Coins Appraised in 2024 - the Complete Guide

How to Get a Coin Collection Appraisal in 2024


Wyatt McDonald

Oct 11th, 2023 · 8 min read

Wondering how to get coins appraised? To get a coin collection appraisal, you should first organize your coin collection. Then, decide whether to do an in-person or online coin appraisal and find a qualified coin appraiser.

The actual process of coin appraisal involves examining factors such as the coin’s age, condition (grade), rarity, historical significance, and demand in the collector’s market – the appraiser may consider recent auction results and market trends to arrive at a valuation.

If you have coins and want to know their value, getting a coin appraisal is the first step. This will help you determine if your coins are worth selling.

Afterwards, determine whether to sell or keep your coins. Always consider getting a second opinion on your coins’ value.

A step-by-step flowchart on how to get your coin collection appraised

Even if you just want to find out the value of your coin collection, you need to get your coins appraised.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of getting a coin collection appraisal so you can confidently and accurately assess whether or not your coins are worth more than face value.

By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly the steps to take to get your coins appraised.

The Coinfully team also offers free online coin appraisals you can receive from the comfort of your own home.

Be sure to check our Coinfully instant value guide for some additional insights into the potential value of your coin collection as well.

Without further ado, let’s dive in to the key steps to get coins appraised.

Our numismatic coin experts have multiple decades in the coin appraisal business, so we are very familiar with the process of coin appraisals.

Whether you are a coin collector or have a box of rare coins sitting around, seeking an expert coin appraisal can significantly enhance the accuracy of your collection’s valuation. Take the following steps to get the best coin appraisal for your collection.

Organize Your Coin Collection for Appraisal

If you bring your coins into a shop, separating your coins before selling can make the process easier for an appraiser. Some ways to separate United States coins are according to different mints, years, types, or gold and silver.

When getting your collection ready for coin valuation, try to avoid anything that might damage them. This includes:

  • Cleaning your loose coins
  • Removing them from albums
  • Taking them out of binders or plastic pages
  • Opening hard plastic protectors or labeled rolls

This is a key consideration if you happen to inherit a coin collection and are deciding how to approach the process of selling your inherited coin collection.

Evaluating your inherited coin collection’s value can be a daunting yet rewarding experience, ensuring that you make informed decisions about its long term future.

If you are thinking of sending in your coins for Coinfully for an online coin appraisal, organization or separation is not necessary. 

Leave your coins as you found them and we will take care of the rest to ensure you get a successful estate coin collection appraisal and avoid any damage to your coins’ mint marks.

Decide on In-Person vs Online Coin Appraisal

Image of a comparison chart showing the pros and cons of in-person vs. online coin appraisals

A major choice when having your coins appraised is deciding between an in-person coin appraisal or online appraisal for your coin collection.

Here are some considerations to determine which option makes the most sense for your coin collection appraisal.

In-Person Coin Appraisals

It may seem easiest to take your coins to a real person who will write a check in front of you.

In-store appraisals have the advantage that you can find local coin appraisers near you and walk into their coin store, which can provide some confidence if you have a reputable coin dealer and need coin collection appraisals for investment.

However, be aware that their are some downsides to in-person appraisals.

Often, in-person coin appraisers may hold onto your collection for as long as a week or more, and will likely charge you a fee. In some cases, in-store appraisers might even try pressuring you to sell your coins at a lower price.

Additionally, some people find it annoying carrying their coin collections from shop to expert while looking for the best possible price, and this also risks damage to the coins during transportation, or even theft

This is a big issue if you have valuable coins and coin collections that you do not want to risk.

Other coin collection owners may not have the time to meet someone in person., If this applies to you, an online appraisal may be the best bet.

Online Coin Appraisals

With an online coin appraisal, you’ll take photos or even live video and send your coin inventory list or pictures to the appraiser. They may give an appraisal on the spot or need a few days for consideration, but you typically get an answer before needing to hand-off your collection.

Some companies will offer an at-home appraisal for large collections, where the appraiser will fly or travel to your home for an in-person appraisal.

If you have a valuable or sizeable coin collection and want, at-home appraisals combine the convenience of an online appraisal with the ‘handshake trust factor’ from meeting your appraiser in person.

At Coinfully, we specialize in online coin appraisals as well as at-home coin appraisal services for large and valuable collections.

Online Coin Appraisals - image of Morgan Dollars coin collection in a wooden box

If you’re looking for premium Morgan Silver Dollar picks or assessing your rare dimes, an online appraisal can provide you with the necessary insights from the comfort of your own home.

Finding the best place to sell coins online can be a daunting task, but with the right appraisal, you can make informed decisions about where to list your rare finds for sale.

Understanding current gold coin market trends is essential for any collector looking to sell or appraise their gold coin collection. Similarly, expert tips on silver coin appraisal can guide you in valuing your silver coins accurately.

Finding the right buyer for your coins is crucial for ensuring you receive a fair price for your collection. If you collect silver coins, an appraisal can also aid in understanding the worth of silver half dollars, giving you a clearer picture of your collection’s value.

If you do have a coin collection you want appraised without going to a store, or just want a second opinion, contact us to schedule a free coin appraisal and learn your coin values.

Find a Qualified Coin Appraiser

Once you decide on an in-person or online coin appraisal, the next step is finding a qualified coin appraiser.

A Google search will tell you where there are coin appraisers near you if you want to opt for the local coin store route. There are also some websites that help in locating coin shops with appraisers near you.

But, as we mentioned, proximity isn’t always the best choice for your collection.

What to Look for in Your Numismatic Expert

quick tips on how to find a coin appraiser

To make sure you are getting the best value for your coins you should always seek out an expert in numismatics for your appraisal.

When looking for an online appraisal, be sure that the company you choose is certified by the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation and is an authorized dealer with the Professional Coin Grading Service PCGS corporation.

Ideally, you’d find a company that’s accredited by the Better Business Bureau as well for added confidence.

Make sure to check any the credentials of your numismatist as well.

To become a professional numismatist a person has to join and take specialized courses with the American Numismatic Association. This certification ensures they have in-depth knowledge about minting, grading, and detecting counterfeit or altered coins.

Qualified numismatic experts are up-to-date on the current coin market conditions and can advise you on the right time to sell or hold. They can also assess ancient coins and commemorative coins, depending on what’s in your collection.

How to Get Coins Valued – Tips to Find the Best Coin Collection Appraisal Expert

Tip #1 – Assess the Types of Coin You Need Appraised

Check your inventory for anything that might have value such as silver coins or rare years. If you are unsure about either, look over our instant coin value guide for quick information on your coins.

Tip #2 – Ensure Relevant Numismatic Expertise

Ensure your coin appraiser is knowledgeable in the type of coin you need assessed, whether that’s gold coins, silver coins, or other rare coins

Tip #3 – Assess the Appraisal Cost

Appraisal cost differs from expert to shop. You may not know how much they charge before you take your coins anywhere. This of course does not include any travel cost you might have done.

In many cases, coin appraisers that also buy coins offer a free appraisal.

Tip #4 – Consider Multiple Opinions

Always consider multiple opinions to verify the worth of your coin collection and make sure you are getting the best possible price. Whether that is with an in-person numismatic expert or with a numismatic expert online.

Make the Decision: Sell or Keep Your Coin Collection?

One of the main reasons to keep your coin collection is significance. Personal or historical significance are both reasons as to why you might want to hold on to your collection.

The biggest reason to sell your coin collection is money. You might have one, or many, sought after coins that are worth far more than their face values.

Another reason to sell is the size. Maybe your collection is too big and you do not have the room for it anymore. It is also possible that you are not interested in coins and feel that someone else might appreciate them more.

If you plan to sell, remember that no one can make the decision to sell your coins except you.

Do not blindly listen to buyers trying to pressure you into parting with your collection, and get multiple offer quotes

Where Should You Sell Your Coins After Appraisal?

Numismatic experts, like an appraiser, can recommend the best places to sell your coins. They might already know someone looking for a specific coin in your collection.

Auction houses are another place you can send your coins. But they take a fee and what someone bids on your coins might be less than your appraisal. You can always visit a coin shop in your area or look for the right buyer online.

Online coin buying appraisers often end up paying more for your rare coins. So consider this possibility if you typically lean towards in-store appraisals.

Why Should You Get Your Coins Appraised Before Selling?

Quick checklist for displaying reasons why you need to get your coins appraised

The most important reason to get an appraisal is to make sure you are getting the best price for coins.

Most people will try and value their own coins before selling. One simple Google search can be stressful. Hundreds of different articles about the value of your coins exist, some of which might be contradicting.

Without someone knowledgeable looking at your coins close up you cannot be sure of what you have. It can be easy to miss a small detail that impacts the sale value of your coins by thousands.

A professional appraisal can help you determine a fair market value for your coins. It also removes any potential stress of valuing them yourself.

Even if you are not considering selling your coins there are still reasons to get an appraisal.

Appraisals are useful for insurance purposes and making plans for a will. A historical aspect can be a reason for seeking coin appraisals. Verifying and confirming authenticity is a key part of appraisals.

If you do have a collection you need appraised and want the ease of an online appraisal, contact our Coinfully team to discover the potential value of your coins.

Even if you plan to sell to a local store, it’s always good to get a second opinion, and a free online appraisal offers an easy and risk-free solution.

How to Get Coins Appraised: Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to get an online coin appraisal?

Online coin appraisals are possible and simple. All you need is a camera to take photos of your coins and an internet connection to talk to one of our numismatic experts.

Do coin appraisal values reflect market prices?

Appraisers look at many different factors to make sure the value they give you is a reflection of the market price. Appraisal value also comes from your coin. Based on factors such as age, condition (grade), rarity, historical significance, and demand. Appraisers look at a similar coin at an auction house to see what it is selling for. They also check the current prices of precious metals compared to what percent a silver or gold coin has.

Can I sell my coins to the appraiser after getting an appraisal?

Some coin appraisers do buy coins or might know someone to put you in contact with. If you take your collection into a coin shop for appraisal you can sell them there. And some online appraisals offer the option to send in your coins for the price they give you.

How can I find reputable coin appraisers near me?

The only ways to ensure your appraiser is reputable is to rely on your fellow coin collectors. Talk to collectors on websites, social media groups, and forums to find the right appraiser near you. Though proximity should not have an effect on coin appraisals. If you would like a top-notch appraisal without traveling consider an online appraisal.

Conclusion: Getting the Best Coin Collection Appraisal

Whether you opt for online coin appraisal or in-person appraisal, knowing the value of your coin collection is paramount. The coin appraisal process varies depending on whether you go to a physical store or online appraisal, with online appraisals generally being far more convenient.

At Coinfully, we appraise your coins free of charge from wherever you are. Top organizations and associations in the numismatic field have certified, vetted, and welcomed Coinfully’s appraisers.

If you would rather see someone in person, we offer a free zero-pressure at-home appraisal service. Where one of our top numismatic experts travels to you, so you do not have to take your coins anywhere.

Contact us now to find out how much your coins are worth.

Wyatt McDonald President & Co-Founder of Coinfully. A student of numismatics and trained in the ANA Seminar in Denver, Wyatt is the face of Coinfully and a true expert. After spending a decade buying coins over the counter at a coin shop, he knew there had to be a better way, for everyone involved.

Get an Appraisal

Think you’re onto something big with your collection? Let’s talk…

401 Hawthorne Ln, Ste 110-323 - Charlotte, NC 28204

Image of appraised coins on a table

Don’t put in all the work for an in-person appraisal just to be offered pennies on the dollar.