How Are Coins Made?

 

 

In this video, learn how the United States Mint makes coins!

The Ten Most Valuable Coins in the United States

The following coins listed below are the most valuable coins in the United States. However don’t go digging through your coin jar just yet looking for them…5 are owned by the Smithsonian and  the other 5 are held by private collectors.

 1849 $20 Liberty gold piece, PR64 – $20,000,000. The first $20 gold piece struck at the U.S. Mint. This piece is struck in proof and is unique. This incredible piece of numismatic history is in the Smithsonian Institution.

 1907 Indian Head $20 St. Gaudens gold pattern, PR69 – $15,000,000. This unique gold pattern was designed by famed sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens. It marries Saint-Gaudens’ $10 Indian Head obverse design to his $20 reverse design. Some numismatists refer to this coin as “Teddy’s coin” in reference to President Theodore Roosevelt’s involvement in coaxing Saint-Gaudens to redesign our nation’s $10 and $20 gold pieces.

1877 gold pattern $50 (J-1546) PR67 (estimated grade) – $15,000,000. This is the famous “Half Union” pattern $50 gold piece. It is unique and in the Smithsonian Institution.
 1877 gold pattern $50 (J-1548) PR67 (estimated grade) – $15,000,000. A variation on the design of the $50 gold pattern listed above. This one is also unique and in the Smithsonian Institution.

1907 Double Thick Extremely High Relief $20 St. Gaudens, PR69 (estimated grade) – $8,500,000 (two coins). Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ “Extremely High Relief” design for the $20 gold piece is arguably the most beautiful coin ever made. Saint-Gaudens’ design was struck in several variations including two examples that were smaller in diameter and “double thick.” Both of these “double thick” gold patterns are in the Smithsonian Institution.

 1794 Silver dollar, SP66 – $7,850,000. Silver dollars were first struck in 1794 and this is believed by some to be the very first one struck. It changed hands in 2010 for $7,850,000.

1804 Silver dollar, “Original” or Class I, PR68– $7,500,000. The 1804 silver dollar is one of the most famous United States coins. A small handful of these coins were struck (actually beginning in 1834 and back-dated) for presentation to dignitaries including the King of Siam and the Sultan of Muscat. The finest is the Sultan of Muscat-Virgil Brand-Walter Childs specimen graded PR68 by PCGS and now in a private collection.

 1804 Silver dollar, “Original” or Class I, PR67– $6,500,000. This is the specimen in the still-intact King of Siam proof set.

1822 $5 gold piece, EF45 (estimated grade) – $6,000,000. There were 17,796 $5 gold pieces struck in 1822, but only three survive today. Two are now in the Smithsonian Institution and this coin, the finest of the three, is now in a private collection. This coin was last sold in the October, 1982 auction of the Louis Eliasberg gold coin collection where it realized a then-record $687,500.

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Tips for Selling your Sterling Silver Flatware

Silverware sets are one of those things that tend to get passed down for generations within a family. In many instances, families may own silverware and flatware that is over 100 years old. While baby boomers and members of older generations often kept silverware sets as a family heirloom, people of younger generations are less interested in keeping them. Large sets of silverware and flatware take up space and require polishing if they have become tarnished over the years. Fortunately, flatware and sterling silverware sets can be worth a good amount of money, making it worth your time to sell your unwanted silverware.

The pieces of a silverware set are either made from real sterling silver, or they are made with a different metal and plated with silver. It is important to figure out whether your flatware is sterling silver or plated silver before trying to sell it. The easiest way to determine this is to look at the markings from the manufacturer on the individual pieces. Pieces that are silver plated are typically marked with phrases such as “silver plate,” “plated,” “EP” for electroplated, or “EPNS” for electroplated nickel silver. If there is no marking on the silverware, the pieces are most likely silver plated. Sterling silver flatware is virtually always marked as such. American made sterling flatware is typically marked with the word “sterling” or the shortened “ster.” Silverware made in other countries is often marked with the number 925 which refers to the 92.5% concentration of silver in sterling silver objects. Some flatware may also be marked with the word “coin” which means that the pieces are made from melted coins. Flatware marked “coin” is usually about 90 percent silver.

If your flatware set is silver plated, it is best to keep it and use it. Silver plated flatware has very little resale value because it is expensive to remove the silver plating. If you determine that your set is sterling silver flatware, then you must dig a little deeper to get a better idea of the set’s true value.

Finding the Value of Your Sterling Silver Flatware

Just because your flatware is sterling silver does not mean it is worth a lot of money.  There are other factors to take into account when trying to gauge the value of your sterling flatware:

• Condition: The condition of the pieces has an impact on the value of the set. It is common for silverware to have small scratches and dings, but any further damage can cause a serious loss in value.  Do not worry if your silverware is tarnished, this can be fixed with polish.  However, it is better not to try and polish the silverware yourself because you could ruin the factory finish.
• Market Price of Silver: The price of any silver objects is always going to be tied to the market price of silver. Check the current market price of silver before you sell your silverware to get an idea of the current silver price.  Weighing your silverware and converting the weight into troy ounces will give you a better idea of its value.
• Patterns & Designs: The patterns on pieces of flatware can add to the value substantially if they are old or rare. Resources like http://silverpattern.com can help you determine the style and age of the pattern.
• Monograms: You should check the flatware pieces to see if they include any monograms or custom markings. Monograms can actually lower the value of your flatware set.
• Individual Pieces: If you do not have the complete flatware set, you can still make money selling the individual pieces. Common pieces like forks, spoons, and knives are worth less than hard to find pieces such as cocktail forks, carving forks and knives, barware, demitasse spoons, and other pieces.
• Complete Set vs. Individual Pieces: If you have a complete sterling flatware set that includes serving pieces, you can get a higher price selling the entire set than by selling the individual pieces.

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Thinking Of Becoming A Coin Collector? Here Are 5 Simple Steps To Get You Started.

Step #1: Get to know your “mint lingo”

Like any specialized hobby or discipline, the world of coin collecting has its own language...

Here are a few key terms to get you on your way:

• Circulation coins: Coins that have been used in commerce and circulated among the general population.
• Commemorative coins: Coins that are minted to commemorate a particular event, person, place, institution or issue. These are usually collector coins, and not circulated. (Also known as numismatic or collectible coins.)
• Face value: The nominal value displayed on the coin (not what you paid for it).
• Intrinsic value: The actual value of the coin, based on key factors including what you paid for it, plus the historic value, aesthetic features, mint year, scarcity/rarity (mintage), and collectability.
• Mint: An industrial facility that manufactures coins (e.g., Royal Canadian Mint).
• Minting: The process of manufacturing coins.
• Mintage: The number of coins issued of a particular design.
• Numismatics: The study or collection of coins or paper money.
• Numismatist: A student or collector of coins or paper money.
• Proof coins: Coins that are minted using a high-quality finish.
• Uncirculated coins: Either a circulation coin that has never been circulated, or a coin with a brilliant field over a brilliant relief.

Coin “anatomy” terms

The body of a coin has some specific terms as well. Here are some of the most popular:

• Obverse: The “heads” or face/front side of a coin, which normally depicts the national emblem or the head of a prominent person.
• Reverse: The “tails” side of a coin, usually depicting the chosen design.
• Relief: The raised or three-dimensional image found on a coin’s field.
• Field: The flat part of the coin (the background) on which the relief is struck.
• Rim: The raised portion that runs around the perimeter of a coin.
• Edge: The outer border of a coin, considered the “third side.” May be plain or serrated.

Step #2: Just start collecting!

You can begin your coin collection by doing two things:

• Acquiring coins that appeal visually and emotionally to you; and/or
• Collecting coin sets.

To a collector, a coin can be precious for many reasons...

Certainly, it may be because of its intrinsic value. Or because it’s made of rich materials like pure silver, pure gold, or platinum. But at its core, collecting coins is about creating something of significance — to you. So simply begin your collection by acquiring coins that pique your interest.

Invest in coin sets

You can also grow your collection with coin sets. A coin set is a collection of uncirculated or proof coins, released by a mint. Practically every mint worldwide produces uncirculated sets. These are in true “mint” condition and make for a great budget-friendly “starter set.”

Here’s a fun fact: the Royal Canadian Mint is the only mint worldwide that offers “specimen sets.” These are coin sets of higher quality (and higher cost) than uncirculated coins, with a finish combining a brilliant, frosted raised foreground over a lined background.

Step #3: Define your collection type

Over time, you may notice similarities across your growing collection. It may be the glimmer and gleam of gold and silver. Or it could be the design. Or maybe you’re attracted to unique coin shapes and colors.

Whatever those attributes may be, taking note of them will allow you to:

• Define more specifically what you want to collect, and
• Create coin sets based on type.

It’s not necessary to collect coins based on type, but it can certainly make collecting more fun and rewarding…especially when you find specific coins you’ve been hunting for!

Collection types for beginners

Here are just a few ideas of for “type” collections:

• Year/date: Collect coins made in a particular year for a particular country. Or, get one coin of a specific type for every year it was minted — for example, the Canadian silver dollar from its first year to the present day.
• Country: Collect by the country you live in, or try to get a wide variety of coins from all over the world.
• Time period: Find coins minted during a specific timeframe. Fascinated with WWI? Round up coins minted between 1914 and 1918; or collect coins that are associated with that era.
• Design: Collect by design theme, such as animals, plants, flowers, sporting and cultural events, superheroes and other pop culture phenomena. The options are limitless!
• Metal/composition: Collect coins made of certain metals like copper, silver or gold.

Be flexible!

As a general rule, always apply a flexible mindset to your coin collecting. Your interests may change from when you first started. For example:

Let’s say you started your collection around the theme of WWI. Over time, you may want to narrow your collection down to aviation technology used during warfare. Maybe you began a general collection of gold coins — but you grow to have a particular interest in gold coins celebrating a specific milestone, like Canada’s 150th anniversary.

Step #4: Create your toolkit

Great news: you don’t need a lot of expensive equipment to start collecting coins!

However, you do need a few things to:

• Ensure they’re stored and handled properly, and
• Get the most out of the beginner’s coin collector experience.

Keep in mind: as you get more serious about coin collecting, you’ll eventually want to invest in more specialized coin-collecting supplies and tools.

However, this is a great starters’ kit:

• Magnifying glass (ideally 7x magnification): To see coins’ details up close;
• A notebook, index cards or software: To keep track of your growing collection;
• Storage holder: To keep your collection safe and dry;
• Cotton gloves: For handling your coins;
• A basic reference book: For general information about coin collecting.

Step #5: Take care of your coins

Caring for coins is not just a question of esthetics: your collection requires proper handling and storage to retain their value! So here are a few tips for keeping them in “mint” condition (so to speak).

Never handle with bare hands — only cotton

Skin oils and dirt damage your coin’s finish and value. So never handle coins with bare hands; instead, use cotton gloves. Moreover, avoid latex or plastic gloves, because their powder or lubricants can damage your coins.

Use caution while handling

Always pick up coins by the edges, between the thumb and forefinger. Never hold a coin by touching the obverse (front) or reverse (back) surface!

Afraid of dropping your coin when you’re handling it? Hold it over a thick, soft towel. Meanwhile, limit how much you talk when you handle your coins. Why? Because tiny, almost invisible drops of saliva can create impossible-to-remove spots.

Store and display safely

There are a number of different ways you can store and display your coins. For beginners who collect coins of lower value, you can keep them in acid-free paper sleeves or envelopes, tubes, or folders or albums.

As you expand your collection to include more valuable coins, experts suggest investing in small, PVC-free plastic bags or “slabs” (sealed, hard plastic cases). You may also want to arrange an appropriate level of insurance in case of theft or fire/water damage.

From pastime to passion

Whether you are collecting coins for yourself or for a loved one, doing so can fill an entire lifetime with interest and inspiration. Indeed, what begins as a pastime can easily become an absorbing pursuit — even a passion! Source

Investing In Gold

Gold has historically been a salve for jittery investors, providing a counterpoint to traditional securities, such as stocks that offer higher returns but more volatility.

“Gold prices often benefit from geopolitical tensions and the perceptions of heightened economic and financial market risk, with investors using it as a hedge against a low-probability, high impact worst-case scenario,” says Greg McBride, CFA, Bankrate chief financial analyst.

What makes gold a good hedge? Unlike government-issued currency that can be devalued, gold is a commodity with an inherently limited supply. Plus, because demand for gold spans the globe, its value is less susceptible to adverse events in any single region.

• There are a couple ways for individuals to invest in gold.
• You can buy gold bullion directly.
• You can use a gold IRA to hold the physical asset in your portfolio while still getting a tax break.
• You can invest indirectly via a gold exchange-traded fund that invests in gold as an underlying asset.

Even though gold is an age-old portfolio play, owning precious metals is different than owning company stock. “With no dividends or other cash flows, investors are dependent solely on price appreciation for a rate of return on gold as an investment,” McBride says. Source

Gold Hits Record High On Safe-Haven Demand

Gold prices rose to hit a lifetime high this year, sparked by safe-haven demand due to U.S. tariff threats, while the focus was also on a crucial inflation report for clues on the Federal Reserve's policy path. Spot gold XAU= was up 1.4% at $2,796.15 per ounce, as of 11:07 a.m. (1603 GMT), hitting its record high level at $2798.24 earlier in the session. U.S. gold futures climbed 2% to $2,824.

"We are seeing keener uncertainty and anxiety about the Trump administration's new policies on trade and foreign policy ... fresh technical buying coming in as prices are trending higher now in both gold and silver," said Jim Wyckoff, a senior market analyst at Kitco Metals.

Earlier this week, the White House said U.S. president Donald Trump plans to hit Mexico and Canada with steep tariffs on Saturday while also considering some on China.

The dollar =USD fell 0.2%, making gold less expensive for other currency holders, while yield on the 10-year U.S. Treasury notes US10YT=RR fell to its lowest level in over a month. USD/US/ "Gold is shining as a safe haven asset, with investors seeking shelter to weather the storm of unpredictability," said Susannah Streeter, head of money and markets, Hargreaves Lansdown.

"The Platinum and Palladium market I think are seeing spillover buying interest from the rallying gold and silver markets and that's mainly what's driving those markets higher," Wyckoff added. Platinum XPT= added 2.1% to $965.95, and palladium XPD= gained 2.3% to $984.50. 

How high will gold go in 2025?

Most global banks expect demand for gold to remain strong this year, with some forecasts predicting gold will hit $3,000 per ounce later this year.

Proceed with caution, though, when making investment decisions based on predictions. As its pointed out, divining the future path of gold prices is difficult because there are so many variables that can come into play.“While higher inflation is seen as giving gold prices a boost, the higher interest rates that result from elevated inflation tend to be a headwind to gold prices." Source

Your Guide to Buying a Vintage Locket

Vintage lockets are beautiful and unique pieces of jewelry that can hold great sentimental value. Whether you are looking for a special gift or a piece to add to your own collection, 

Here are some tips to keep in mind when shopping for a vintage locket;

1. Understand the different types of lockets

Lockets come in many different shapes, sizes, and styles. The most common shapes are oval, round, and heart-shaped, but there are also lockets in the shape of animals, flowers, and other objects. Lockets can be made of various materials, including gold, silver, and brass, and may feature gemstones, enamel work, or other decorative elements. Understanding the different types of lockets will help you determine what style and materials you prefer.

2. Consider the age of the locket

Antique lockets are typically considered to be pieces that are at least 100 years old. However, there are also vintage lockets that are less than 100 years old but are still considered collectible. When shopping for an antique locket, pay attention to the era in which it was made, as this can affect the style and materials used.

3. Check the condition of the locket

Antique lockets may have wear and tear or damage due to their age. When shopping for an antique locket, inspect it carefully for any scratches, dents, or other signs of wear. The hinges and clasps should be in good working order, and any decorative elements should be intact. Keep in mind that some wear and tear can add to the charm of an antique piece, but you want to make sure that the locket is still in good condition and can be worn or displayed.

4. Consider the size of the locket

Lockets come in a range of sizes, from small and delicate to large and statement-making. Consider the size of the locket and whether it is appropriate for the person who will be wearing it or for the display case where it will be stored.

5. Research the history of the locket

Antique lockets can have a rich history and may have been passed down through several generations. If you are purchasing an antique locket with a known history, such as a family heirloom, take the time to research its provenance and find out as much as you can about its previous owners and history. This can add to the sentimental value of the piece and make it even more special.

6. Buy from a reputable dealer

When shopping for an antique locket, it's important to buy from a reputable dealer who specializes in antique or vintage jewelry. A reputable dealer will provide information on the history and condition of the piece, and may offer a certificate of authenticity. They may also be able to provide advice on how to care for and clean the locket.

Buying an antique locket can be a rewarding experience, as long as you take the time to research the different types of lockets and find a reputable dealer who can provide you with information on the history and condition of the piece. With care and attention, an antique locket can be a cherished piece of jewelry that will be passed down through generation. Source

How to Collect Vintage Watches: 5 Expert Tips

 

 

In the inaugural episode of Robb Report's new video series, "How to Buy It," Foundwell's Alan Bedwell lays out five expert tips to help you start your journey into the world of vintage-watch collecting. 

7 Tips on How to Care for Your Gold and Silver Jewelry

Your jewelry is more than just a fashion accessory, it’s an investment. Whether it’s a family heirloom passed down through generations or a new piece you’ve splurged on, proper care and maintenance are crucial to keeping its value. From cleaning and storage to insurance and repairs, there are several tips to remember when caring for your jewelry. Discover ways you can ensure your jewelry stays in top condition and maintains its value so you can sell it for cash or pass it on to family.

1. Clean Your Jewelry at Home

Silver or gold jewelry can be scratched over time. Cleaning it can keep your pieces looking their best.

To clean gold jewelry, soak it in a mild cleaner, such as gentle dish soap or a splash of white vinegar, and warm water. Gently scrub the jewelry with a soft-bristled toothbrush, rinse it in cool water, then dry it with a soft polishing cloth.

Use a silver polish, a mild at-home solution made of soap and water, lemon and olive oil, or vinegar and baking soda to clean silver pieces. After soaking the jewelry for about five minutes and gently scrubbing with a soft, untreated flannel cleaning cloth, rinse the items with lukewarm water and dry them with a lint-free cloth.

Avoid using harsh cleaning products or abrasive materials when cleaning your jewelry since these can cause damage to the metal or gemstones. Also, note that silver jewelry may develop a slightly blue, green, or gray patina. This is a natural aging process for silver that may not need to be cleaned, depending on the look you are trying to achieve.

2. Have Your Jewelry Professionally Cleaned

Although you can take care of basic jewelry cleaning at home, having your pieces professionally cleaned can help them hold their value. Depending on how often you wear the items, take them to a professional cleaner at least once per year.

Professional jewelers can access special tools, like ultrasonic machines, that use high-frequency waves to clean your jewelry without damaging delicate stones or settings. They also use a special polishing wheel to give your jewelry a high shine and may use steam cleaning to remove grime and dirt. They also inspect your pieces for loose settings and other potential damage and repair these elements, so your jewelry doesn’t lose its worth.

3. Avoid Wearing Silver Jewelry in Water

If you plan on engaging in water-related activities such as swimming, remove silver jewelry pieces to prevent damage. For example, take off your silver jewelry before swimming, soaking in hot tubs, or taking a shower or bath, especially in hard water. Chemicals like chlorine in swimming pools and hot tubs can cause tarnishing or discoloration in silver, and hard water can result in mineral deposits that stain your pieces.

4. Store Your Jewelry Properly

The best way to ensure your collection maintains its value is to store each piece of jewelry separately in soft cloth pouches or boxes lined with felt or velvet fabric.

Chemical reactions between compounds used in some silver pieces can cause discoloration in your items. This often happens through humidity and air exposure. Keeping your jewelry stored separately prevents this from occurring, especially when storing for an extended period. Store all silver pieces away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and humid areas like bathrooms. This prevents metal corrosion due to oxidation from exposure to dampness or extreme temperatures.

5. Put on Jewelry After Applying Makeup and Skincare Products

Products like makeup, hairspray, or body lotion may contain abrasive compounds like retinol or alpha or beta hydroxy acids that weaken or cause chemical discoloration to precious metals. Ensure your jewelry avoids contact with these products to maintain its original shine.

6. Avoid Wearing Jewelry While Working Out

Avoid wearing high-value jewelry when you go to the gym or perform a workout. Sweat and intense physical activity can damage jewelry pieces, resulting in discoloration and bent or broken settings that devalue the item.

Consider removing your jewelry when doing activities like cleaning, gardening, or cooking as well. Dirt, chemicals, and food can cause grime to build up on jewelry like rings, bracelets, and watches, or dislodge precious stones from their setting.

7. Remove Your Jewelry Before Bed

To prevent damage, don’t sleep with your gold or silver jewelry on, like a wedding or engagement ring. Tossing and turning during sleep might break or bend settings, links, and clasps, especially if you wear delicate pieces like anklets or thin chains. Place your jewelry on a bedside container such as a jewelry tray, a velvet-lined hanger, or in a jewelry box. Source