Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Selling Coins and Bullion

At Atlanta Gold & Coin Buyers, our experienced professionals can assist you with all of your questions about your coins, bullion, and paper currency. Read on for answers to our frequently asked questions.

1. What is the value of silver?

The value of silver is determined by the current spot price and your silver’s weight, purity, and rarity.

2. How much is a silver dollar worth?

The value of a silver dollar depends on the year of mintage, the condition, if the coin has been certified, and the mint mark of the coin, if applicable.

3. Which U.S. coins are silver?

Dimes, quarters, and half dollars issued for general circulation in 1964 and earlier are composed of 90% silver. Silver dollars produced in 1935 and earlier are also 90% silver. Half dollars issued from 1965 to 1970 contain 40% silver content.

4. How can I tell if a coin is silver?

The best way is to take a look at the edge of the coin. If you see a copper stripe, the coin is clad. If the stripe is silver with traces of copper, it may be 40% silver. If the edge is solid silver, it’s likely a silver coin. Additionally, most silver coins have reeded edges.

5. Where is the mint mark on a silver dollar?

Mint marks can be located in different areas, depending on the type of coin. As an example, mint marks are on the back of the coin on Morgan and Peace silver dollars. They can be found at the bottom below the wreath on Morgan silver dollars and beneath the word “ONE” on Peace silver dollars. Silver dollars minted in Philadelphia, the largest producer of silver dollars, do not have mint marks.

6. Were gold coins used in general circulation?

Yes. Pre-1933 U.S. gold coins, composed of 90% gold, were produced for general circulation purposes and used for daily transactions. The denominations produced were $1, $2.50, $3, $4, $5, $10, and $20. Generally speaking, on a relative basis, $1, $3, and $4 gold tends to have the most collectible value.

7. What’s the difference between bullion and numismatic coins?

The value of bullion coins, bars, or rounds is based solely on the precious metals content, while numismatic coins derive their value from the underlying metal content as well as the rarity and demand for the items as collectibles.

8. How do I get a coin certified?

You can get a coin certified by submitting it to a reputable grading company, such as the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC).

9. What kinds of coins should I have certified?

In general, it’s important to consider whether the cost of the grading makes up for the increase in value provided by PCGS or NGC certification. You may benefit from the professional grading of rare coins, such as older type coins and key date coins in good condition. In general, it’s cost-prohibitive to certify most modern coins, as the increased value tends to be less than the certification expenses.

10. How do I get a coin certified?

You can get a coin certified by submitting it to a reputable grading company, such as PCGS or NGC.

11. What are the most valuable U.S. coins?

The 1787 Brasher Doubloon is valued at over $7 million.

12. What are the most valuable foreign coins?

In general, foreign coins produced prior to the 19th century tend to have more value than their modern counterparts. We purchase all foreign coins composed of precious metals, regardless of the condition and country of origin.

13. What is the rarest coin in the world?

Only three 1343 Edward III Florian coins are known to be in existence.

14. How do I sell a coin collection?

Common selling options include coin dealers, jewelry stores, gold brokers, and auction houses. We’ve prepared a helpful guide on how to sell your coin collection, which can be found here.

15. How do I get my coin collection appraised?

We can help with that! Our professional coin dealers offer comprehensive appraisal options to suit your needs.
If you have any other questions about buying or selling coins, the experts at Atlanta Gold & Coin Buyers are happy to help. Contact our family-owned dealership today at 404-236-9744 or visit us at our Johns Creek location (by appointment).