If you are in possession of old coins which you are wondering what to do with and especially if they are Gold or British Silver, then now would be a very good time to think about selling them. There is currently a very strong demand among collectors and investors for gold coins of all descriptions and any Pre-1947 British Silver coins. The reason for this is that British Silver coins minted before 1920 were made from 92.5% Silver and coins minted from 1920 to 1946 were made from 50% Silver. It is not without coincidence that the debasing of our coinage followed two major wars when the Treasury was looking for ways to raise money. After 1947 the coins were then made from cupronickel.
The Gold and Silver content automatically gives the coins a commodity value however if the coins are in good condition collectors pay a good deal more for them. The ideal coin for a collector would have very little wear, if any, and would be the type of coin that a person might be inclined to lift out of their change and keep because it is so striking. Extremely fine old silver coins can command a premium up to ten times more than a worn coin. the attraction to a collector is the detail on the coin. Each coin is designed by an engraver at the Royal Mint, many of whom over the years have produced the most exquisite images. When the engraving is translated to the coin, they are literally a miniature work of art and this is the major appeal to collectors.
The advent of the internet has caused a resurgence of coin collecting as it has made it easier to source coins from around the world. Also, coins are light and can be posted anywhere.
For sellers using an Auction House is an ideal way to bring coins to the market. This is especially the case with online auctions as a worldwide audience is targeted which helps to ensure the coins achieve their full potential value to the collector market.
