There are several ways to get your coins appraised for free, both online and in person:
- [Coinfully]: Offers free online and in-home appraisals with certified coin experts. No obligation to sell.
- PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service): Provides a free online price guide to help you determine coin value based on type, year, denomination, and grade. They also offer resources for identifying error coins.
- NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company): Similar to PCGS, NGC offers a free online price guide to estimate coin value based on year, denomination, and unique features. They also specialize in identifying error coins.
- Heritage Auctions: You can request a free online appraisal for rare and common coins by submitting detailed information and images.
- Coin World: A resource for numismatic news that also offers approximate appraisals through guides and price listings.
- American Rarities: Offers free online appraisals specializing in American rare and collectible coins. They accept inventory lists or photos via text, email, or their contact form.
- Coinoscope: A free mobile app for identifying and valuing coins. You can scan a coin with your phone camera, and the app provides detailed information including estimated value.
- Local Coin Shops: Many coin shops offer free informal appraisals as a way to potentially buy coins from you. However, you typically won’t receive a formal, written appraisal for free. You can search for reputable shops near you online. For example,
– [Houston Coin Buyers] in Houston, TX
– [Coin Exchange of Treasure Valley] in Boise, ID
– [Atlanta Gold & Coin Buyers] in Johns Creek, GA
– [GreatCollections Coin Auctions] in Irvine, CA
– [Rechant Coins & Precious Metals] in West Palm Beach, FL
- Coin Shows: You might find opportunities for free appraisals at local coin shows and clubs.
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Houston Coin Buyers 4.8 (185)Open · Coin dealer 1330 Westheimer Rd #2]
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Coin Exchange of Treasure Valley 4.6 (67)Open · Coin dealer 3170 W Overland Rd]
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Atlanta Gold & Coin Buyers 4.9 (358)Open · Coin dealer 11555 Medlock Bridge Rd Suite 100]
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GreatCollections Coin Auctions 4.2 (113)Open · Coin dealer 17891 Cartwright Rd]
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Rechant Coins & Precious Metals 4.9 (186)Open · Coin dealer 1825 Forest Hill Blvd Suite 102]
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- Understand the difference between grading and appraising: Grading services like PCGS and NGC assess a coin’s condition and assign a numerical grade, which can affect value but isn’t a full appraisal.
- Formal vs. informal appraisals: Informal appraisals, often free, provide a general estimate. Formal appraisals are more detailed, often involve a fee, and are generally recommended for extremely valuable or rare coins.
- Handle coins carefully: Oils from your skin can damage valuable coins, reducing their value. Avoid cleaning old coins as this can also decrease their worth.
- Check for errors: Minting errors can significantly increase a coin’s value, so it’s worth checking for any unusual features.
- Research and compare: Even with a free appraisal, it’s wise to do your own research using online price guides and auction results to get a better sense of your coin’s potential value.
By using a combination of these resources and taking the necessary precautions, you can gain a better understanding of your coins’ value without incurring significant costs.
How much does it cost to get a coin appraisal?
I can help with that. Coin collection appraisal costs depend on the type of appraisal and where you go. Coin collectors may offer free appraisals prior to a purchase offer. For paid appraisals, the average price of time that you may be charged for an appraisal is somewhere between $100 and $250 per hour.
Where can I get my coins counted for free?
Your local bank branch is a good place to exchange coins. The branch will typically give you coin wrappers for free. Credit unions or community banks are more likely to have free coin-counting machines for members. Coinstar machines are in many supermarkets, and Publix has its own machines.