Monday, November 30, 2009

Selling Your Gold Coins To Raise Funds

By Eric Hoover

Gold coins can find their way into people's homes through a variety of paths. Some are painstakingly collected throughout the years and end up collecting dust on a shelf. Others are acquired as gifts and are nearly forgotten by the receiver. Still others are inherited when a friend or loved one passes on. These coins may hold hidden value. If you own them, and need to raise funds, you can sell them for a fast infusion of cash.

Given that the prices of gold and silver have risen sharply over the last several years, it's little surprise that millions of people have begun selling their coins. This trend has become even stronger as the economic situation has grown more dire; many people are selling in order to make ends meet.

In this article, we'll describe some of the places at which owners are releasing their gold coins. We'll also briefly explain the factors that play a role in determining prices. Lastly, we'll offer a few tips for selling to online buyers.

Potential Places To Sell Them

Twenty years ago, most people took their collections to coin dealers. The dealer would study the pieces and determine their value based on a number of factors. Because of their overhead, the prices they offered were often far lower than the prevailing market. Those who are desperate to get rid of their coins still travel this route.

Many people choose to sell their collections at swap meets and garage sales. However, finding a buyer is often problematic, especially for large collections. You might also be able to convince a local jeweler to buy your coins, though few will accept them. And of course, pawnshops will take them, but their offers will be low.

A growing number of people are selling their collections online. The entire transaction takes place by mail, which makes the experience practically maintenance-free.

Factors That Contribute To Price

Aside from the gold content in your coins, there are several factors that contribute to its value. Its rarity, condition, quality, and popularity all contribute toward the price a dealer will be willing to pay. The more rare and popular a coin is, the greater its value. Its grade is also important; heavily-circulated coins are less valuable than those which have seen little circulation.

Quality is largely subjective. A gold coin's value is partly influenced by the public's like or dislike of the design. Of all factors, quality is the most confusing and frustrating.

Selling To An Online Buyer

With selling online becoming enormously popular with collectors, it's worth emphasizing a few tips. First, read the buyer's agreement on their website. You'll be sending your collection to them in the mail. Make sure their agreement does not commit you to selling. Second, shop around. With online access, it has never been easier to find the best price. Third, insure your collection. If it gets lost or stolen while it's in transit, you'll receive compensation.

Whether you own one gold coin or hundreds, selling them to an online buyer can be an ideal strategy for quickly raising funds. In today's economy, the immediate cash flow may represent a new level of personal value. - 22871

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