If you thought coin collecting was a dusty hobby relegated to community halls and glass cases in antique stores, think again. In fact, rare coins have become quite the hot commodity with prices reaching record highs for some items. One example: A Double Eagle gold coin that had a face value of $20 sold for more than $18 million at an auction in January.
Experts warn, however, that while coins may be enjoying a moment in the sun, it is hard to predict whether this surge will last. The ’80s saw a boom followed by a bust, and many observers aren’t convinced this time will be any different.
Regardless, collectors are energized by the rise of online portals that offer transparency and education to potential buyers. They also are drawn to specialized collections of a particular coin series. For instance, some people seek out the complete set of 50 state quarters released by the U.S. Mint between 1999 and 2008.
As with any type of investment, it’s important to do your homework to avoid getting ripped off. The Federal Trade Commission warns consumers to always check out a seller’s reputation and reviews online before buying from them. It’s also a good idea to examine coins in person before making a purchase. That way, you can avoid a potentially costly mistake based on an inaccurate or misleading description of the item’s grading and current value.
2024 P American Women, Washington Celia Cruz Quarter Uncirculated
$1.99 (as of September 17, 2024 14:28 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Merrick Mint Kamala Harris 1st Woman Vice President in History JFK Half Dollar Official Coin
$12.95 (as of September 17, 2024 14:28 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
2024 American Silver Eagle .999 Fine Silver in Direct Fit Air Tite with our Certificate of Authenticity Dollar Uncirculated US Mint
$47.49 (as of September 17, 2024 14:28 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
The Task Ahead Challenge Coin Collector's Medallion
$12.99 (as of September 17, 2024 14:28 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
1878-1921 Liberty Morgan Gold Coin Replica Collection US Old Coin Collection United States of America Coin Souvenir Party Gifts
$3.99 (as of September 17, 2024 14:28 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
2024 D American Women, Washington Celia Cruz Quarter Uncirculated
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Trump Copper Round 1oz Pure Copper Coin
$6.99 (as of September 17, 2024 14:28 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Lincoln Wheat Cent 1909 S VDB Design 1 oz Pure .999 Copper Round Collectible Jumbo 39mm Coin in Capsule - COA by Heavenly Metals
$7.99 (as of September 17, 2024 14:28 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Whitman US Lincoln Cent Coin Folder Volume 3 1975 - 2013 #9033
$5.84 (as of September 17, 2024 14:28 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)