Old Coin Value Lookup
Upload photos of your coins and get a free AI-powered value estimate. We analyze mint marks, dates, condition, and current market prices.
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Types of Coins We Appraise
From wheat pennies found in a drawer to rare gold coins from an estate, we can help you understand your collection's value. Start with our free online antique appraisal.
US Silver Coins
Morgan dollars, Peace dollars, Walking Liberty halves, Mercury dimes, and pre-1965 silver
Gold Coins
Double eagles, eagles, half eagles, gold dollars, and modern bullion coins
World Coins
British sovereigns, Canadian maple leafs, ancient Roman coins, and foreign currency
Early American
Large cents, half cents, Draped Bust, Flowing Hair, and colonial coins
Understanding Coin Grades
Condition is often the biggest factor in coin value. The difference between grades can mean thousands of dollars.
Circulated Grades
- AG-3 (About Good) - Heavily worn, outline visible
- G-4 (Good) - Major design visible
- VG-8 (Very Good) - Design clear, some detail
- F-12 (Fine) - Moderate wear, all lettering sharp
- VF-20/30 (Very Fine) - Light wear on high points
- EF-40/45 (Extremely Fine) - Slight wear only
- AU-50/58 (About Uncirculated) - Trace wear
Uncirculated (Mint State)
- MS-60 - No wear, many contact marks
- MS-63 (Choice) - Moderate marks, good luster
- MS-65 (Gem) - Few light marks, full luster
- MS-67 - Virtually perfect
- MS-68/69 - Near perfection
- MS-70 - Perfect (extremely rare)
Example: A 1921 Morgan Dollar might be worth $30 in VF-20 but $500+ in MS-65.
Key Dates & Mint Marks to Look For
Valuable Lincoln Cents
Valuable Morgan Dollars
Where to Find Mint Marks
- Lincoln Cents (1909-present): Below the date (except 1909-1967 obverse)
- Morgan Dollars: On reverse, above "DO" in DOLLAR
- Walking Liberty Halves: On reverse, below branch (1916-1917 on obverse)
- Mercury Dimes: On reverse, to left of fasces
- Mint marks: P (Philadelphia), D (Denver), S (San Francisco), CC (Carson City), O (New Orleans), W (West Point)
US Silver Coin Melt Values
Pre-1965 US coins contain 90% silver. Even common dates have value for their metal content.
| Coin Type | Silver (oz) | ~Melt Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Morgan/Peace Dollar | 0.7734 | $22-28 |
| Walking Liberty/Franklin/1964 Kennedy Half | 0.3617 | $10-13 |
| Washington Quarter (pre-1965) | 0.1808 | $5-7 |
| Roosevelt/Mercury Dime (pre-1965) | 0.0723 | $2-3 |
| War Nickel (1942-1945, P/D/S above dome) | 0.0563 | $1.50-2 |
*Values fluctuate with silver spot price. Key dates and better conditions are worth more than melt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I clean my coins before getting them appraised?
Never clean your coins! Cleaning destroys the natural patina (toning) that collectors value. Even gentle cleaning can reduce a coin's value by 50% or more. Coins should be handled by the edges only. Our AI analyzes coins as-is.
Are slabbed/graded coins worth more?
Professional grading (PCGS, NGC) typically adds value for coins worth $100+. The authentication and guaranteed grade make coins more liquid. For common coins worth under $50, grading fees may exceed the value added.
What photos do I need for an accurate coin appraisal?
Include: clear photos of both obverse (front/heads) and reverse (back/tails), close-up of mint mark location, any damage or cleaning, and the edge if relevant. Natural indirect lighting works best - avoid direct flash which can wash out details.
I inherited a coin collection. Where do I start?
Upload photos of your key pieces to get an initial value estimate. Look for complete sets, key dates, and high-grade specimens. Don't sell to the first buyer - our appraisal helps you understand fair market value before negotiating.
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