What Determines a Coin’s Value?

What determines the value of a collectible coin? Scott Travers, gold and rare coin expert and author of The Insider’s Guide to US Coin Values, lists the three basic factors that determine how much a coin is worth. The first—and most important—factor is the condition of the coin. Coins are rated on a scale from 1 (barely identifiable) to 70 (flawless condition). Coins at the high end of the scale demand a far greater premium. Also important in determining a coin’s value is how many are available to collectors (supply). Rarer coins are worth more. Demand, another factor that affects a coin’s value, is determined by how many collectors want a specific coin—the more collectors who want it, the more it will cost. Finally, Mr. Travers cautions that age alone is a poor predictor of a coin’s worth.

Scott A. Travers is one of the most knowledgeable and influential coin dealers in the world. He has authored 7 best selling books on coins, including “The Insider’s Guide To US Coin Values.” For more great tips from Scott, check out his other videos at Bottomlineinc.com, his website, or purchase his latest book, The Coin Collector’s Survival Manual.