When selling your coin collection, it’s crucial to find coin buyers who provide written appraisals. These documents not only establish a fair market value for your coins but also serve as legal and financial records. Whether you’ve inherited a collection or are an avid numismatist ready to cash in, a written appraisal adds legitimacy, clarity, and trust to the transaction.
In this guide, we’ll explain why written appraisals are important, what to expect from the process, and how to find trustworthy coin buyers who offer this service.
Why Is a Written Appraisal Important When Selling Coins?
A written coin appraisal is a formal, itemized valuation of your collection, completed by a knowledgeable numismatist or coin dealer. This documentation is essential for several reasons:
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Establishes a Fair Market Value: A professional appraisal ensures you know the true worth of your collection based on rarity, demand, condition, and historical data.
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Protects Against Undervaluation: Without an appraisal, you risk accepting far less than your coins are worth.
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Needed for Insurance and Estate Planning: Insurance companies and legal professionals often require written documentation for valuable items.
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Assists in Tax Reporting: If you’re donating a coin collection or including it in an estate, the IRS may require a certified written appraisal.
What Should a Written Coin Appraisal Include?
A professional written appraisal should be more than a rough estimate scribbled on a napkin. Here’s what a thorough appraisal should contain:
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Detailed Descriptions of each coin, including year, mint mark, denomination, and notable characteristics.
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Grading Information, including the condition according to industry-standard scales like those from PCGS or NGC.
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Photographs of rare or high-value coins.
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Estimated Market Values based on current coin trends, auctions, and price guides.
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Authentication Notes if the coin has been verified by third-party grading services.
Do All Coin Buyers Offer Written Appraisals?
Not all coin buyers offer written appraisals. Many dealers will perform verbal evaluations at no cost, especially if you’re considering selling to them. However, coin buyers who provide written appraisals often charge a fee due to the time and expertise required.
When selecting a buyer, always ask:
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“Do you offer written appraisals?”
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“Is there a fee involved?”
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“Are you certified by any professional numismatic organizations?”
Working with certified members of the American Numismatic Association (ANA) or Professional Numismatists Guild (PNG) ensures that your appraisal meets professional standards.
How Much Do Written Coin Appraisals Cost?
Appraisal fees vary depending on the scope of your collection and the coin buyer’s experience. Typical pricing structures include:
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Per Hour: $50–$150/hour for in-depth evaluations.
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Per Coin: $5–$25 per coin for smaller submissions.
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Flat Fee: Ranging from $100–$500+ for large collections or estate evaluations.
Many reputable coin buyers will apply the appraisal fee as a credit if you choose to sell your collection to them afterward.
Where Can I Find Coin Buyers Who Provide Written Appraisals?
When searching for professional coin buyers who offer written appraisals, start with:
1. Local Coin Shops (LCS)
Many established LCS offer written appraisals, especially if they have longstanding reputations. Look for shops that display ANA or PNG affiliations.
2. Numismatic Shows
Coin shows attract professional dealers, some of whom offer on-the-spot written appraisals. These events are also great opportunities to compare offers and gather multiple opinions.
3. Online Coin Buyers
Several reputable online buyers provide appraisal services via mail-in programs. Look for websites with verified reviews and BBB accreditation.
4. Estate and Appraisal Firms
For large or inherited collections, estate appraisers who specialize in coins are a valuable resource. They often work with attorneys or financial advisors.
What Should I Bring to a Coin Appraisal Appointment?
To get the most accurate appraisal, bring the following:
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Your entire coin collection in its original holders or packaging (if available).
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Any previous appraisals, certifications, or receipts.
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A notepad to take notes and track estimates.
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Questions prepared in advance (e.g., “Which coins have the most value?” or “Are any of these counterfeit or altered?”).
Avoid cleaning your coins beforehand, as this can lower their value.
Can I Get a Free Written Coin Appraisal?
While verbal evaluations are commonly free, written appraisals typically involve a fee. However, some buyers offer complimentary written appraisals if you choose to sell your coins to them. Be sure to clarify this before the appointment.
Are Written Appraisals Valid for Insurance or Legal Purposes?
Yes. A professionally prepared written appraisal can be submitted to insurance companies, lawyers, or the IRS, especially when:
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Filing insurance claims
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Distributing an estate
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Claiming a charitable donation
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Dealing with inheritance or divorce proceedings
To be legally valid, the appraisal must be signed, dated, and prepared by a qualified professional.
People Also Ask
How do I know if a coin buyer is reputable?
Look for buyers with ANA or PNG memberships, customer reviews, and a clear code of ethics. Avoid buyers who pressure you to sell immediately or offer vague estimates.
Can a pawn shop give me a coin appraisal?
Most pawn shops provide only basic offers, not formal appraisals. For an accurate written valuation, seek a specialist in numismatics.
Is a written coin appraisal the same as coin grading?
No. Grading evaluates a coin’s condition using specific standards, while a written appraisal includes grading along with market value and descriptive details.
Final Thoughts: Why It Pays to Work with Coin Buyers Who Provide Written Appraisals
A written appraisal is your best defense against underpricing your coin collection. It provides clarity, security, and negotiating power—especially if you’re selling a high-value or inherited collection.
By working with coin buyers who provide written appraisals, you ensure your collection is evaluated fairly and professionally. Whether you’re preparing for an estate sale, insurance policy, or personal sale, written documentation can make all the difference.
Ready to Get a Professional Written Appraisal for Your Coin Collection?
Contact a trusted local coin buyer today or request a written appraisal from one of our experienced numismatists. Your coins deserve a fair and accurate evaluation—get peace of mind with a professional written appraisal.