FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my coins are valuable?

 The value of a coin depends on several factors including rarity, condition, year, mint mark, and whether the coin contains silver or other precious metals. Many coins that look old may only have modest value, while some specific years or varieties can be worth significantly more. If you are unsure, the best approach is to have the coins looked at by someone familiar with coin collecting. 

Should I clean my Coins?

 No. Coins should never be cleaned. Cleaning can scratch the surface and remove the natural toning that collectors value. Even gentle cleaning can significantly reduce a coin’s value. It is always best to leave coins exactly as they are. 

Do you buy collections?

 Coinology primarily showcases coins from a personal collection, but I am happy to help review collections and provide guidance on their potential value. In some cases I may purchase coins, or I may suggest the best place to sell them such as a coin auctions, dealers, or the collector market. 

Do you ship coins?

 Yes. Coins can be shipped securely within Canada. Shipping methods and costs will depend on the value of the coins and the preferred level of tracking or insurance.

Can I send photos for evaluation?

 Yes. If you would like help identifying or evaluating coins, you can send clear photos of the front and back of the coins. Include any information you know about where the coins came from or how long they have been in the family. 

What kind of coins do you collect?

 My focus is primarily on Canadian coins, but the collection also includes coins from many countries around the world. Some coins date back to the mid 1800s or earlier, and many were originally collected during travels in the 1950s. 

What should I do if I inherit a collection?

 Start by keeping the coins organized and avoid cleaning or polishing them. If possible, leave them in the holders or envelopes they came in. Taking a few photos and seeking advice from a collector or coin society can help you understand what you have before deciding whether to keep or sell them.

What Canadian coins are valuable?

Silver coins pre-1968.

Certain key dates

Rare varieties

Low mintage coins

How do I know if my old coins are worth money? 

 Many people assume that all old coins are valuable, but that is not always the case. The value of a coin depends on several factors including rarity, condition, metal content, and collector demand.

Some coins are valuable because only a small number were produced, while others may be worth more because they contain silver. In many cases the difference between a common coin and a rare one can come down to a specific year or mint variation.

If you have inherited coins or found coins that appear unusual, it is worth taking the time to identify them before deciding what to do with them. Clear photos of the front and back of the coins can often help determine whether they may have collector value.

Do you do professional appraisals?

No, we do not provide formal professional appraisals. Professional appraisals are usually only necessary for high-value coins or for insurance or estate purposes. Because appraisals can be expensive, it is often best to first get an estimate or general idea of what the coins may be worth before deciding whether a formal appraisal is needed. 

If you have questions about a coin collection or need help identifying a coin, feel free to contact us through the website.